How Old Do You Have to Be to Take a CPR Class?

Basic life support programs are available to teach people how to respond to emergencies at a basic level.

Sometimes  children attend these courses and we are often asked what is a suitable age for training.

Firstly, children can and should learn basic First Aid, CPR and AED training.

The age at which the information can be retained and understood, is going to vary with the child. Depending on the comprehension level, this type of training can be good for kids as young as 8 or 9 years old. If your child comprehends well and does well in school, then they can learn a lot from a CPR/AED First Aid Class.

Depending on the age, and the type of emergency, a child may be very limited in what they can do.

However, simply being able recognize  an emergency and call 911 or 000 is often enough. Recognizing difficulty in breathing, seizures and chest pain are all within the ability of some perceptive children, and knowing when to call 911 or 000 is not a difficult concept to teach them.

The parent or guardian of a child plays a significant role in the child’s ability to retain the information taught in a CPR and First Aid class.

Repetition of concepts and practice is key with children just as it is with adults. In order for your child to get the maximum benefit from taking such a course, you may consider preparing them by watching a video, or looking at books, before attending.

Children often think very highly of  certification. Especially, if they understand it as a reflection of their accomplishment. Therefore, you may want to take a class where your child can be sure to leave with this small but important reward.

Be sure to encourage their efforts and praise their accomplishment, as their success can literally make the difference in someone else’s life.

Tags: CPR for children, CPR training, First Aid Training