Swimming Skills Set

Before the meeting:

1. Review the three swimming ability groups found in Scouting America Safe Swim Defense guidelines, number 6.
2. Print two copies of the Swimming Skill game found in Additional Resources. Keep one for a key. Cut out each of the labels on the second copy.
3. On a flat surface, lay out the swimming skill level labels: SWIMMER, BEGINNER, and NON-SWIMMER leaving room in between each label and plenty of room below.
4. Lay out the remaining labels off to the side mixing them up.

​​​During the meeting:

1. Point out the three swimming skill level labels already laid out, SWIMMER, BEGINNER, and NON-SWIMMER. Explain to Cub Scouts that before they go swimming at a Scouting activity, they must demonstrate their swimming ability. Depending on how well they can swim, they will be classified as a nonswimmer, a beginner, or a swimmer. Tell Cub Scouts that the classification allows you into different swimming areas and water depths.
2. Their job is to take the remaining labels, read them out loud and place them under the correct swimming skill level label.
3. Each Cub Scout should get a turn, going around to each until all the labels have been correctly placed.
4. Let them place all the labels before checking to see if they are correct. Encourage them to work together.
5. Once all the labels are place, check to see if they are correct. If not, ask them to review and see if they can figure out their mistake.