You need not be a professional diver to enjoy the underwater world. Snorkeling requires nothing more than a mask, snorkel and fins! Yet when heading out to sea with the kids, selecting the right snorkel gear is only part of the task. Introducing children to snorkeling equipment, one piece at a time, and teaching them to how to snorkel will ensure the family adventure is fun, even for the first time snorkeler.

• Clean the snorkel mask with a mild abrasive such as dish soap or toothpaste.
• To avoid fogging rub a defogger on the lens or do it the old fashioned way, have your child rub saliva on the inside of the dry lens and then rinse the mask.
• Be sure to loosen your child’s snorkel mask before they put it on. Have them position the mask over their eyes and nose, slide the strap over their head and pull the strap ends until the mask seals comfortably. Be sure the mask is not too tight.
• The easiest way to clear a flooded mask is to lift the lower skirt and drain the water. Older children can be taught to purge the mask by placing two hands on the top of the mask and exhaling though their nose.
• Practice clearing the mask in shallow water where the kids can easily kneel or stand.
• Don’t forget to caution tweens and tots about breathing through their nose