[tle]

We're having a pool installed at the moment so I thought it was an appropriate time for DH and I to renew our 1st Aid Certificates. I'd also love to get the kids to do it to but I can't find a course that will accept them.

They are aged 13, 12, 9, 7, 7. I was half excepting to be told that the younger 3 couldn't do it but I don't understand why 13 & 12 year olds can't. I run a business so I was planning to book out a whole course so that us, the kids and everyone that works for us could all do it together. That way, even though the kids are young it's not like they would be interrupting anyone else that had paid to do the course by asking extra questions etc.

Everywhere I look though, has a minimum age of 14.

Does anyone know why this is the case or better still, know of some organisation that will teach younger kids? I would have thought that the early kids learn basic 1st aid and CPR the better.

[Luvmy4]

St John Ambulance do free courses for WA primary schools (my kids have done this) so there must be something else out there. If you are in WA contact them

[HappyWomble]

Back in the 70s we did CPR at school at least as young as grade 4, so around 9yo. Perhaps contact your department of education and see if there's an accreditted trainer (it's probably about blue cards).

[Delirium]

My five year old DD had a first aid session at school last week through St Johns. It was a very simple course on how not to panic and what to do in an emergency. I've also been reinforcing this at home (I'm a single mum and want her to know what to do if "mummy won't wake up").

St Johns might be the way to go...

This post has been edited by Delirium: 14/11/2012, 10:14 AM

[jks91]

When I was 12 I did a first aid course through school, I think it was called Preliminary First Aid? It was run by St Johns and had basically a cut down version of the Senior First Aid.

This was a while ago though so not sure if it is still available.

[i-candi]

Wave learning here in NSW does two different first aid courses for kids depending on age and I'm sure they go down to 7.

Google wave learning and if you are not in the area maybe email them and they can help. If you are in the area let me know I'm sure I have gift certificates - unless I threw them away...

[Mousky]

I did one in grade 6 at school through st Johns. But the best first aid course I have ever done was thrrough Ambulance Victoria.

[~ky~]

My 11yo DD is a St John Ambulance Cadet and already has extensive first aid training, but, at her age is considered too young to physically administer CPR effectively. She has been taught how to talk an adult through the process and also how to instruct an adult on defibrilator use, but will not be allowed to do it herself until she is 14yo.

Personally, because CPR needs to be administered effectively, I think this approach is appropriate.