Treading Skills

Before the meeting: 

1. Locate a swimming area.   
2. Gather copies of the Scouting America Annual Health and Medical Record on each participant (youth and adult)
3. Review Annual Health and Medical Records for any restrictions that may impact participation
4. Review the Safe Swim Defense and secure the proper Qualified Adult Supervision for the activity.
   All swimming activity must be supervised by a mature and conscientious adult age 21 or older who understands and knowingly accepts responsibility for the well-being and safety of those in their care, and who is trained in and committed to compliance with the eight points of Scouting America Safe Swim Defense. 

During the meeting: 

1. Bring copies of the Scouting America Annual Health and Medical Record on each participant (youth and adult)
2. Gather the Cub Scouts before entering the swim area and give them their buddy tags.  Have them identify their buddy and once they have their buddy they may place their buddy tag together on the buddy board. 
3. If no one has attempted the Scouting America Swimmer or Beginner test they are considered non-swimmers and must stay in water that is no more than waist to chest deep. 
4. Demonstrate and teach treading water to Cub Scouts.  
5. Move your legs in a scissor kick or eggbeater motion. This involves moving your legs in a circular or scissor-like pattern to help you stay afloat. 
6. Keep your arms in a relaxed position and move them in a circular or sculling motion to help maintain balance. 
7. Have Cub Scouts attempt to tread water.