Great news! He sailed through his BSA swimming merit badge and then tried the scuba again. Kudos to the instructor. He was patient and did most of the things you all have recommended. He felt much better and enjoyed himself.
What helped the most was loosening the mask so it wasn't squeezing his face. I have to give my son credit. He didn't give up, and looked at everything logically. He used his troubleshooting skills learned in his computer classes.
He now says he is comfortable enough to go ahead with lessons. I'll keep a close eye, and try to give him other opportunities to get more comfortable.
What helped the most was loosening the mask so it wasn't squeezing his face. I have to give my son credit. He didn't give up, and looked at everything logically. He used his troubleshooting skills learned in his computer classes.
He now says he is comfortable enough to go ahead with lessons. I'll keep a close eye, and try to give him other opportunities to get more comfortable.