Wolf Paws for Water Adventure for 2024

The Wolf Paws for Water Adventure is a fun and educational activity for Cub Scouts. This adventure helps young Scouts learn important swimming skills and safety rules. It’s all about swimming and being safe and confident in the water. Wolves work together with their den, pack, or family to explore swimming through different activities.

In the Wolf Paws for Water adventure, Wolves learn by doing. They get into the water and practice how to enter and exit a swimming area safely. These are important skills that can help them feel more comfortable and secure around water. As they practice, they also learn to look out for each other, using the buddy system.

Developing basic swimming strokes is another key part of this adventure. Wolves try different strokes like the front crawl, backstroke, or breaststroke. This not only improves their swimming ability but also builds their strength and endurance. It’s a great way to get physically active and enjoy being in the water.

The Wolf Paws for Water Adventure teaches Wolves important life skills like safety, teamwork, and physical fitness. These experiences help them grow into responsible and capable young Scouts.

Requirements for the Wolf Paws for Water Adventure

Paws for Water Adventure Requirements

This Adventure may be earned by completing the requirements below OR passing the BSA Swimmer Test OR taking swimming lessons.

1. Learn about the swimming safety rules that you need to follow.  
2. Demonstrate how to enter the swimming area properly.
3. Using  the buddy system and staying within your ability group, go swimming with your den or family for 30 minutes. 
4. Jump feet first into water that is chest high or deeper.  
5. Attempt at least one swimming stroke: front crawl, restful backstroke, or breaststroke.
6. Demonstrate how to exit properly from the swimming area.

Resources for the Wolf Paws for Water Adventure

Swimming Safety

Learn about the swimming safety rules that you need to follow.  

For the Wolf Paws for Water Adventure, requirement 1 focuses on learning swimming safety rules. This is very important to help keep everyone safe in and around water. Here are some basic swimming safety rules that Wolf Scouts should learn:

1. Always swim with a buddy. Never go into the water alone.
2. Only swim if trained adults are present to supervise.
3. Listen to the lifeguards or adults who are watching the water.
4. Walk, don’t run, near the water to avoid slipping and falling.
5. Always check the water depth before entering. Only jump or dive if it’s safe.
6. Learn and follow the specific rules of the swimming area you are in.

Swimming events for Scouts must be supervised by an adult who is trained in Safe Swim Defense.

Here is an option for fulfilling Wolf Paws for Water Adventure requirement 1:

• Rules Relay
  • Cub Scouts will learn swimming rules through a relay race game.
  • Supplies: Rules Match Relay game, tape
  • indoor, high energy, 1 to 3 days prep

These rules help ensure that swimming is safe and fun for everyone involved.

How to Enter the Swimming Area

Demonstrate how to enter the swimming area properly.

For the Wolf Paws for Water Adventure, requirement 2 is about demonstrating how to enter the swimming area properly. This skill is important to ensure safety when starting to swim. Here’s what Wolf Scouts need to know about entering a swimming area:

• Look for Signs: Always check for signs or instructions before entering. They might have important information about the water conditions.
• Walk Slowly: Walk slowly into the swimming area to prevent slipping or stirring up the bottom.
• Use Handrails: If there are handrails or steps, use them to enter the water safely.
• Enter Feet First: The first time you enter the water in a new place, go feet first. This is safer because you can feel the bottom and check the depth.
• Check Depth: Make sure the water is deep enough for swimming. It should not be too shallow.

Here is an option for fulfilling Wolf Paws for Water Adventure requirement 2:

By learning and practicing these steps, Wolf Scouts make sure they start their swimming activities safely.

Go Swimming

Using  the buddy system and staying within your ability group, go swimming with your den or family for 30 minutes. 

For the Wolf Paws for Water Adventure, requirement 3 focuses on swimming safely with others. It teaches Wolves to use the buddy system and stay within their ability group. Here’s what this requirement involves:

• Buddy System: Each Scout should have a buddy. This means they always stay close to another person while swimming. This helps keep everyone safe because buddies can look out for each other.
• Ability Groups: Scouts should swim only within their skill level. For example, those who are new to swimming shouldn’t go into deep water. This keeps swimming fun and safe for everyone.
• Swim Time: The Scouts should swim for 30 minutes. This is a good amount of time to practice swimming and have fun without getting too tired.

Here are some fun and safe water games that Wolf Scouts can enjoy, especially for those who need to stay in the shallow section of the swimming area:

• Water Tag: One Scout is “it” and tries to tag others by splashing water on them. Once tagged, Scouts can become “it” or sit out until the next round starts.
• Duck, Duck, Splash: Similar to “Duck, Duck, Goose,” but the Scout who is “it” walks around a circle of seated Scouts, tapping heads and saying “duck” until choosing one to call “splash.” The chosen Scout gets up, and both race around the circle to the open spot. The last one there gets splashed.
• Pass the Water: Scouts line up and pass a cup of water over their heads to the next Scout in line. The goal is to keep as much water in the cup as possible by the time it reaches the last person.
• Floating Relay: Teams use a floating object, like a ball or a toy boat, and push it across the pool without touching it directly. They can only make waves or blow on it to move it forward.
• Treasure Hunt: Scatter some floating toys or safe objects in the shallow area and have Scouts collect them as quickly as they can. This can also be done with sinking items if the water is clear and shallow enough for safe retrieval.
• Simon Says in the Water: Play “Simon Says” with simple water-based actions like “splash water,” “float on your back,” or “kick your feet.”

These activities keep everyone involved and ensure that even those in the shallow end have lots of fun while staying safe.

Here is an option for fulfilling Wolf Paws for Water Adventure requirement 3:

Swimming with the den, pack, or family makes this a fun group activity. It also helps Scouts learn important safety habits while enjoying the water.

Swimming Strokes

Jump feet first into water that is chest high or deeper.  

For the Wolf Paws for Water Adventure, requirement 4 is about trying at least one swimming stroke. This helps Wolves learn different ways to move in the water. They can choose from the front crawl, restful backstroke, or breaststroke. Here’s a brief description of each stroke and some advice on how to approach them:

• Front Crawl: This stroke is also known as freestyle. The swimmer alternates their arms as they reach forward and pull the water back. They kick their legs up and down. This stroke is fast and efficient, but it might take practice to coordinate breathing.
• Restful Backstroke: The restful (or elementary) backstroke is a full-body swimming stroke that uses symmetrical arm and leg movements. It’s similar to breaststroke on your back, and can be a good stroke to save your life.. You can keep up this stroke all day long and cover a considerable distance.
• Breaststroke: This stroke involves moving both arms together in a circular motion while doing a frog kick with the legs. It’s slower than the front crawl but can be easier for beginners because the head stays above water most of the time.

• Start practicing in shallow water where you feel comfortable.
• Try each stroke slowly at first. Focus on getting the movements right.
• Ask for tips and corrections from a lifeguard, instructor, or adult helper.
• Practice with your buddies so you can learn together and have fun.

Here is an option for fulfilling Wolf Paws for Water Adventure requirement 4:

Trying different strokes will help Wolves become better swimmers and enjoy their time in the water more safely.

Jumping in the Water

Attempt at least one swimming stroke: front crawl, restful backstroke, or breaststroke.

For the Wolf Paws for Water Adventure, requirement 5 involves jumping feet first into water that is chest high or deeper. This skill is important for safely entering deeper water when you can’t see the bottom clearly.

• Always check with an adult to make sure the water is safe and deep enough for jumping.
• Never jump into water without permission or without a lifeguard or adult watching.
• Stand straight and keep your body tight as you jump. This helps you keep control as you enter the water.
• Make sure your swimming area is clear of other people and obstacles before jumping.

Here is an option for fulfilling Wolf Paws for Water Adventure requirement 5:

Learning to jump feet first is a fun way to practice entering the water safely. It helps Scouts enjoy swimming while being aware of their safety.

Exit the Swimming Area

Demonstrate how to exit properly from the swimming area.

For the Wolf Paws for Water Adventure, requirement 6 is about demonstrating how to exit the swimming area properly. Exiting safely is as important as entering safely to avoid injuries and ensure a smooth transition out of the water.

• Find the safest and easiest place to exit, like a ladder, steps, or a shallow area.
• Use any available handrails or ropes to help you get out without slipping.
• Always walk slowly and carefully when you exit the water. The area might be slippery.
• If you’re using a ladder or steps, use both hands to hold on firmly as you climb out.
• Make sure to move out of the way quickly once you are out of the water so others can exit safely too.
• Ensure that your buddy also exits the water safely.
• Ask for help from an adult if you feel tired or if the exit seems difficult.

Here are some options for fulfilling Wolf Paws for Water Adventure requirement 6:

By practicing how to exit the swimming area properly, Wolves learn to be cautious and respectful of others in the swimming environment. This is part of being a responsible and safe swimmer.

Before any activity, check the SAFE Checklist to make sure everyone is safe. Everyone involved in Scouting America activities should know the Guide to Safe Scouting and other relevant guides or books. Also follow any state or local rules that are more strict than Scouting America rules and guidelines.

All swimming activities must be supervised by a responsible adult aged 21 or older who understands and accepts responsibility for the safety of those in their care. This adult must be trained in and committed to the eight points of BSA Safe Swim Defense.

Before starting this Adventure, complete the following:

• Complete the BSA Safe Swim Defense training on my.scouting.
• Ensure there are enough adults to serve as rescuers, with one rescuer for every 10 Cub Scouts.
• Have buddy tags for everyone who will be in the water, both youth and adults.

During the Adventure:

• Review the points of Safe Swim Defense with the group before the activity.
• Provide constant, qualified adult supervision during the activity.
• When swimming outdoors, ensure all Cub Scouts apply sunscreen.

More information

Frequently Asked Questions for the Wolf Paws for Water Adventure

What do I need to bring for the Wolf Paws for Water Adventure?

Bring a swimsuit, a towel, sunscreen, and water shoes if you have them.

Can I complete the Wolf Paws for Water Adventure in one day?

Yes, you can complete all the requirements in one day, especially if you plan your time well and have access to a swimming area.

Do I need to know how to swim to start the Wolf Paws for Water Adventure?

You don’t need to be an expert, but you should be comfortable in the water. You will be practicing basic swimming skills and safety.

What if I’m scared of the water?

It’s okay to feel scared. Start slowly and stay in shallow water. Always swim with a buddy and let an adult know how you feel.

What should I do if I get tired while swimming?

If you feel tired, take a break. You can go to the shallow part of the water and rest. Always tell your buddy or an adult if you’re feeling tired.

How do I know if the water is safe for jumping?

Always check with an adult first. Make sure the water is deep enough and that there are no hidden dangers like rocks or sharp objects.

Swim Safe and Have Fun!

The Wolf Paws for Water Adventure is designed for Wolf Scouts to learn and practice water safety and swimming skills. This adventure includes six main requirements. Wolves start by learning the basic rules of swimming safety. This knowledge helps them stay safe while having fun in the water.

Next, Wolves practice how to properly enter and exit the swimming area. These skills are crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring that all activities start and end safely. They also spend 30 minutes swimming using the buddy system, which teaches them about teamwork and looking out for one another.

The Wolf Paws for Water Adventure also challenges Wolves to try different swimming strokes such as the front crawl, backstroke, or breaststroke. This not only enhances their swimming abilities but also boosts their confidence in the water. Additionally, they learn how to safely jump into water that is chest deep, adding a bit of excitement to their swimming experience.

Overall, the Wolf Paws for Water Adventure is a great way for Scouts to improve their swimming skills, learn important safety rules, and enjoy time in the water with friends and family. It’s a splash-filled journey towards becoming more confident and capable in aquatic environments.