Teaching kids to snorkel can be a lot of fun, whether you are playing in a pool or exploring for fish, coral and other sea life in the ocean. Even young children can use a mask, snorkel and fins, which come in a range of sizes, colors and designs to suit your child's tastes and needs. Properly equipped, your little tadpole will be paddling around exploring in no time.
Mask
The snorkeling mask consists of a ring of rubber or plastic that holds a clear plastic window. The mask creates an air space between your child's eyes and the water itself. This provides a clear view of things underwater. Masks come in a range of sizes from those that fit small children all the way up to adult sizes.
Snorkel
The snorkel is the long tube that extends from the child's mouth to above the surface of the water, allowing the child to breath easily. On one end is the mouthpiece, which is made of rubber or silicone with a flange around the opening that fits in the mouth between the lips and gums to form a water-tight seal. Some snorkels, which have purge valves at the other end of the tube, might be easier for your child to use because it helps keep excess water out of the snorkel.
Fins
Fins come in two types. The strap type fits over the child's foot with an adjustable strap that fits around the heel. Full foot fins are more like a shoe with flippers and are usually easier for children to wear. A pair of neoprene boots can also help fins to be more comfortable and fit better. Fins also range from stiff to flexible. The stiffer the fin, the more effort is required to use them.
Fit
The mask should be just large enough to fit around your child's eyes and seal snugly on the face so it will not come off, even without a head strap. If it's too large or too small, the mask will not fit properly, preventing it from forming a seal and preventing water from seeping in. The mouthpiece of the snorkel should be large enough to form a good seal but not so large that it irritates the child's mouth. Fins should also fit well enough to stay on the feet but not so tight that they are uncomfortable.
Training
Teach your child how to put on the fins and to walk around in them. This will be a clumsy experience at first, but after a while they will become more comfortable, and your child will be waddling around like a duck. Next, familiarize your child with the mask. Demonstrate how to form a good seal around the face and how to clear the mask if water does get in. Then, instruct your child how to position and use the snorkel while face down in the water. These steps will get your child started on a truly enjoyable snorkeling experience.
Safety
Get children familiar with swimming before moving to snorkeling. Teach your children about the rules of water safety and reinforce those rules regularly. Instruct your children that it is never OK to swim alone, even with snorkeling equipment.
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