How Diving Builds Confidence, Curiosity, and a Lifelong Love of the Ocean
Let’s face it—most divers remember the exact moment they fell in love with the underwater world. Whether it was a first pool session or that first gasp from a regulator, something clicked. For many of us now raising kids or mentoring young people, there's a real desire to share that passion and pass it on.
At Mike’s Dive Store, we believe scuba diving isn’t just a sport—it’s a transformative experience. And for children and teenagers, learning to dive can offer incredible benefits: physical, mental, emotional, and environmental.
Here’s what you need to know about introducing young people to diving in 2025, including a breakdown of PADI’s junior courses, tips on selecting the right entry-level gear, and the beginnings of what we’d call a “My First Dive Kit”.
Why Scuba Diving Is So Good for Kids and Teens
Confidence & Independence
Diving teaches kids to trust their skills, their judgment, and their bodies. Completing dive skills in open water fosters a genuine sense of independence and responsibility—not to mention pride. For teenagers in particular, diving offers a unique way to push comfort zones in a safe, controlled environment.
Environmental Awareness
There’s no better way to teach ocean conservation than by being in the ocean. Diving fosters a real, lasting connection to marine life and ecosystems. Many junior divers go on to become ocean ambassadors, eco-warriors, and future marine scientists. It all starts with that first descent.
Teamwork & Communication
From buddy checks to dive briefings, diving requires communication and collaboration. Kids learn how to work with others, listen closely, and look out for their dive buddy—valuable life skills beyond the water.
Physical & Mental Health
Diving improves body awareness, breathing control, and calm decision-making. It's also a great low-impact physical activity, encouraging better focus, fitness, and stress relief.
PADI Courses for Children & Teenagers
The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) has designed a series of courses specifically for young divers that are age-appropriate, fun, and incredibly well-structured. Whether you’re starting in the pool or heading out on a holiday, there’s something for every age group.
PADI Bubblemaker (Ages 8+)
This is the perfect intro to scuba for young adventurers. Conducted in shallow pool environments (2 metres max), it’s all about fun and bubbles. Kids wear real gear, breathe underwater, and begin building comfort with scuba equipment. No formal certification—just big smiles. Learn More
PADI Seal Team (Ages 8+)
A step up from Bubblemaker, the Seal Team program adds structure through “Aquamissions.” Kids learn basic skills like clearing a mask or recovering a regulator in a fun, game-like format. It’s perfect for building early water skills and confidence. Learn More
PADI Junior Open Water Diver (Ages 10–14)
This is the full certification course—but tailored to younger learners. It includes eLearning, pool training, and four open water dives. Kids earn a Junior Open Water Diver cert, which upgrades automatically to full Open Water Diver status at age 15.
Key notes:
- Max depth: 12m for ages 10–11, up to 18m from age 12+
- Must dive with a certified adult or PADI Pro until age 15
“My First Dive Kit” – Entry-Level Equipment for Young Divers
Let’s be honest—most dive kit isn’t made with kids in mind. At Mike’s Dive Store, we’re working to expand our range, but there are still a few excellent starter options we’d recommend for juniors who are beginning their dive journey. It’s not about kitting them out fully on day one—but rather making sure they have the essentials that fit well and build comfort.
1. Mask & Snorkel
A well-fitted mask with a soft silicone skirt ensures a proper seal and a comfortable dive. Junior sets are ideal for smaller faces.
Great picks include the TUSA Mini Kleio Junior Mask and Snorkel Set for a dedicated kid-friendly fit, the low-profile Scubapro Trinidad 3 Mask for easy travel, and the highly rated TUSA Freedom Ceos Mask for older kids or teens. For snorkels, the TUSA Platina Hyperdry II is a reliable dry-top choice that helps prevent water entry.
2. Fins
The right fins make swimming smoother and more enjoyable. Full-foot fins work well in warm water, while open-heel styles pair with boots for colder dives.
The TUSA Sport Compact Snorkelling Fins are a standout for younger snorkellers and divers – lightweight, short-blade, and travel-friendly. For more power, the Cressi Agua Kid Fins offer a soft, flexible fit. The Scubapro Go Travel Fins are a great step up for teens, designed to grow with them and ideal for divers on the move.
3. Wetsuit
Thermal protection matters even in warmer water. A 3mm wetsuit is a versatile starting point, with thicker options for cooler conditions.
The Scubapro Rebel Kid's 3mm Steamer is tailored for younger divers and offers great flexibility. For those hard to fit or in between junior and adult sizes, the Fourth Element Xenos 3mm Wetsuit (men/women) in XXS or XS may work well – it’s high-quality, easy to get on, and great for slightly older kids or teens. For tropical waters, consider the Rebel Shorty.
4. Buoyancy Control Device (BCD)
A junior-appropriate BCD should be lightweight, easy to adjust, and offer a comfortable fit.
The Mares Explorer Kids BCD is built specifically for young divers, while the Scubapro Rebel BCD – Small Diver is a practical, padded option that balances support with comfort. For growing teens or those needing adjustability, the Scubapro Navigator Lite BCD is a great travel BCD that adapts as they grow and suits a wide range of sizes.
5. Regulator Set
Lightweight, compact regulators help younger divers breathe easily and reduce jaw fatigue.
The Scubapro MK2 EVO/R195 paired with R095 Octopus is a solid, beginner-friendly choice with classic durability. The Scubapro MK2 EVO/R105 Kids Regulator Set is similarly well-suited to smaller mouths. For those wanting something light and ideal for travel, the Apeks XL4+ is an excellent high-performance option. Don’t forget to pair with a Scubapro Compact Pressure Gauge or Twin Console.
6. Dive Computer or Gauges
While not mandatory from the start, a dive computer helps young divers build awareness early.
The Suunto Zoop Novo is rugged, clear, and beginner-friendly, while the Cressi Leonardo offers a clean display and intuitive navigation. Both are ideal for young divers looking to take more control as they advance. Alternatively, start with an analog pressure/depth gauge and instructor guidance.
7. Boots and Gloves
Neoprene boots offer protection and warmth, especially with open-heel fins. Gloves are optional but great for colder or rougher environments.
The Fourth Element Rock Hopper Shoe is the perfect choice – low-profile, flexible, and available in smaller sizes to suit juniors.
Gloves optional depending on water temp and course location.
8. Surface Signalling Device
SMB (surface marker buoy - the Mares All-In-One SMB s compact and easy to use) and a whistle are smart additions for open water dives.
9. Weight System
If diving with a BCD, they may need a small weight belt or integrated weight pouches – but instructors typically handle this on junior courses.
Bonus: Add-ons for Confidence & Safety
- Snug-fitting hood if diving in colder water. Scubapro Rebel Kids 5mm Hood or Fourth Element 3mm Hood are great for added warmth.
- Look Clear Anti-Fog Spray or Gear Aid Sea Gold™ Gel – keeps vision crystal clear and helps to avoid mid-dive frustration!
- Mesh bag to carry their own gear and start learning responsibility. The Scubapro Mesh 65 Dive Bag is enough to fit everything that's needed and its backpack design makes it easy to carry the gear around.
- Dive logbook – start the habit early! Our Dive Forever Mike's Dive Store Log Book is an A5 size, spiral-bound book with plenty of space to note down all dive memories.
Safety First – Tips for Parents & Dive Buddies
- Choose reputable, kid-friendly dive centres (PADI centres are the gold standard).
- Let them take their time—don’t rush progress.
- Make every dive about fun, not performance.
- Stay within training limits—depth, buddies, and conditions matter.
- Consider reef-safe sunscreen, hydration, and a dive logbook they’ll love filling in.
Travel Inspiration – Family Diving Holidays with PADI
When you’re ready to take it further, PADI’s travel platform has incredible family-friendly dive holidays. Think warm water, shallow reefs, and unforgettable wildlife encounters that will make your child fall in love with the ocean for life.
Explore PADI Family Dive Trips Here
Build a Young Diver’s World
Introducing a child or teen to scuba diving isn’t just a hobby—it’s a doorway to confidence, curiosity, and care for the planet. Whether you're starting with snorkelling, trying a Bubblemaker session, or assembling a first dive kit, every step counts.
At Mike’s Dive Store, we’re here to support that journey with trusted advice, kid-friendly equipment, and a long-standing partnership with PADI, the world’s leading dive training organisation.
Big adventures start with the right gear - dive into our Junior / Teen Scuba Diving Collection to find everything your young explorer needs!
💬 Got questions about gear, courses, or where to start? Contact us
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🎒 Shop Starter Gear for Young Divers
🌍 Plan a Dive Holiday with PADI - Discover Entry Level Courses
Because their first dive… could change everything.
