First off I want to thank everyone for your contributions, it is much appreciated. I had not yet responded again since receiving a lot of new feedback because I was in Monterey getting my Deep and Search & Recovery certifications. I learned a lot and had 6 great dives, leaving me one dive short of my 100 dive milestone. Next time...
I think it is possible that there may be some misinterpretation as to my original post with the combination of starting my DM and being jazzed about my son wanting to start diving.
First off, I am "jazzed" about my son wanting to dive. That really has nothing to do with my DMC other than this original question. I sincerely hope he develops the passion that I have found with diving. If he does, we have much to look forward to. If not, we still have much to look forward to, just not under water.
I did post this because "I" was questioning the appropriateness of me being involved in his certification. I don't really think it is. The CD could talk me into it, but I would have my concerns, and do.
However many certifications a DMC is involved with, before becoming a DM, is really besides the point. Doesn't every DM have a first? I would much prefer that if I was assisting in this scenario that it would NOT be my first, for many of the reasons cited.
I know there are constant discussions and arguments about standards. I believe that much of the discussions here, and then presented at the agency level, has raised some standards with PADI for Open Water certification. That can't be a bad thing.
I do though have to ask Jim, what agency did you do your DM with? You assisted with 75 certifications before you were officially a DM? Why was that? I ask that not saying it is a bad thing. With that much experience, I am sure you were an excellent DM. What was the actual requirement by your agency?