Get Your Kids Into Snorkeling
Snorkeling is one of the easiest and least expensive water sports to enjoy, and Thailand is one of the best places in the world to practice it.
Getting your kids into snorkeling is an excellent way to introduce your children to the beauty of ocean life and to teach them to respect other living beings.
Many people head for a dive shop to rent masks, snorkels and fins, for their kid’s first snorkeling lesson, but as this gear isn’t really expensive, we recommend that you only do this when you first introduce your kids to the sport. Renting ill-fitting fins or a mask that leaks uncontrollably can ruin a pleasant day in the water for your kids.
Start Your Kids in Waist-deep Water
Start your kids in waist-deep water and have them practice putting the mask and snorkel on and breathing through the snorkel while their face is submerged. Most kids will quickly get used to this exercise, and you can then get them used to floating on their stomachs while breathing through the mask.
You should accompany them at first on their snorkeling expeditions and gently remind them that snorkeling responsibly is about looking but not touching. Get your kids used to the idea that they are just guests in the ocean and they should respect all marine life by leaving it alone.
There are not many marine animals in Thai waters that can hurt you. But if they take to the sport and want to learn about marine life in the area, it’s the perfect time to teach the dangers of zebrafish, stonefish, puffer fish and cone shells.
Your kids will soon become fascinated with the ocean, and you can feel safe in knowing they have a healthy respect for sea life.