Posted by brianc on November 17, 2000 at 11:05:20:
Last month, I DM'd for an OW class during which some referal students joined on the last day. They were a family that included a 12 y.o. On the first dive, I ended up towing the kid (and both parents) back to shore very shortly into the dive.
Last night, I noticed a young kid in the shop taking an OW final.
I'm considering telling the Course Director that I will not DM for classes that include children. I think that conditions are too harsh for them here.
I have had lots of experience with children in swimming lessons. My mom was a YMCA instructor, I practically grew up in a pool. I was an LA County Junior Lifeguard as a kid. I worked with kids as a volunteer at a nature center on a beach in Florida. I have very limited experience with kids doing scuba though. I'd be interested in hearing others' experience and opinions.
BTW. Please direct all flames to the usual recipients...