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Sharks and Minnows

Sharks and Minnows is a simple game that fits well into Scouting programs. It encourages teamwork, builds swimming skills, and keeps Scouts active in the water. The game is easy to learn and can be adapted for different group sizes and swimming abilities.

This game is a great choice for Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, and Venturing activities. It works well during pool parties, summer camps, or swimming merit badge practice. It can also help Scouts become more comfortable and confident in the water while having fun with their friends.

Sharks and Minnows is a tag game where one person starts as the shark, and everyone else tries to avoid being tagged. The rules are simple, so Scouts can quickly get started without a lot of preparation or explanation. All you need is a pool and some enthusiastic participants.

This game promotes physical activity and helps Scouts build relationships. It encourages friendly competition and helps players practice good sportsmanship. Sharks and Minnows is a fun way to build swimming confidence and bring groups of Scouts together.

What Sharks and Minnows Teaches Scouts

Sharks and Minnows isn’t just a swimming game—it’s a learning experience. Scouts develop skills like quick thinking and teamwork as they decide how to swim and avoid the shark. They also learn to be brave as they take risks to reach the base without getting tagged. These lessons happen naturally during the game, making it both fun and valuable.

The game ties in with several points of the Scout Law. Scouts show bravery when they take on the shark role or swim close to danger to avoid getting tagged. It also teaches kindness. Sharks learn to play fairly and respect others. Minnows often encourage each other, showing what it means to be a helpful team.

Sharks and Minnows works best for Cub Scouts and younger Scouts BSA members. For younger Scouts, keeping the rules simple and having adult supervision helps the game run smoothly. Older Scouts or Venturers can enjoy it too, especially with variations like adding obstacles or setting time limits to make it more challenging.

This game also teaches respect for safety rules and boundaries. Scouts must listen to instructions and stay aware of their surroundings. Adults or older youth leaders can use the game as a chance to remind Scouts about safe swimming practices, like staying in their ability zone and avoiding rough play.

For younger Scouts, the game is a great way to build confidence in the water. They get to practice swimming without the pressure of a structured lesson. For older Scouts, it’s a chance to work on endurance and strategy. Adjusting the rules for age and skill levels helps everyone stay engaged and have fun.

Sharks and Minnows is more than just swimming back and forth. It helps Scouts grow as individuals and as a group. Whether they’re learning bravery, kindness, or teamwork, this simple game offers plenty of opportunities to practice being a Scout in action.

How to Play Sharks and Minnows

Equipment/Materials List

  • A swimming pool
  • At least three players (more is better)
  • Clear pool rules and adult supervision

Setup Instructions

  1. Decide which side of the pool will be the starting side and which will be the base.
  2. Select one player to be the shark. The rest of the players will be minnows.
  3. Have the shark stand or tread water at the base side of the pool. The minnows start on the opposite side.
  4. Review the rules with everyone. Make sure all players know where the boundaries are and understand safety guidelines.

Game Play Instructions

  1. The shark calls out, “Sharks and Minnows, one, two, three, minnows, minnows, swim to me!”
  2. The minnows begin swimming from their side of the pool toward the base side.
  3. The shark tries to tag as many minnows as possible before they reach the base.
  4. Any minnow who gets tagged becomes a shark for the next round.
  5. Once all the minnows either reach the base or are tagged, the round ends. The new sharks move to the starting side, and the process repeats.
  6. The last minnow who has not been tagged becomes the shark for the next game.

Additional Notes and Variations

  • For younger Scouts, limit the size of the pool area to make swimming easier.
  • Older Scouts or strong swimmers can add obstacles or a time limit to increase difficulty.
  • Set clear rules for tagging to avoid rough play. Sharks should use a light tap and avoid grabbing.
  • Always have adult supervision to ensure safety. Make sure all players stay in their swimming ability zone.
  • If the group is large, divide players into smaller groups and rotate turns as sharks and minnows.

This game is simple to organize and works for a wide range of ages. Keeping safety as the priority ensures everyone has a good time.

More Resources

More Games

Looking for more games like Sharks and Minnows? Visit my website for a variety of games perfect for Scouts of all ages. From outdoor challenges to fun group activities, you’ll find ideas to keep your Scouts engaged and active. Check out my collection of games to add excitement to your next meeting or outing at Games for Scouts

The Importance of Games in Scouting

Frequently Asked Questions for Sharks and Minnows

How many players do you need to play Sharks and Minnows?

You need at least three players—one shark and two minnows. The game is more exciting with a larger group.

Can younger Scouts play Sharks and Minnows?

Yes, younger Scouts can play, but keep the rules simple and provide close supervision to ensure safety.

What swimming skills are needed to play?

Players should be comfortable swimming across the pool. They don’t need advanced skills but must stay in their ability zone.

How do you decide who starts as the shark?

You can pick someone at random, or let a volunteer start as the shark.

What happens if a minnow gets tagged?

A tagged minnow becomes a shark and helps tag the other minnows in the next round.

How do you make the game harder for older Scouts?

Add obstacles, set a time limit, or shrink the safe zone to make it more challenging.

What safety rules should we follow?

Make sure everyone listens to instructions, stays in their swimming ability zone, and avoids rough tagging. Always have adult supervision.

Why Be a Minnow When You Can Be a Shark?

Sharks and Minnows is a classic swimming game that’s easy to set up and loads of fun for Scouts of all ages. One player starts as the shark, trying to tag the other players, who are minnows. The goal for the minnows is to swim across the pool and reach the base without being tagged. It’s a simple concept that can be enjoyed by small or large groups.

The game is great for teaching teamwork, strategy, and bravery. Scouts learn how to work together to avoid the shark and make it to safety. Sharks, on the other hand, must think ahead and plan their moves to tag the minnows. These challenges help build problem-solving skills in a fun environment.

Sharks and Minnows fits well into Scouting programs because it encourages physical activity, good sportsmanship, and fair play. It also connects to points of the Scout Law, such as bravery and kindness. With a little supervision and some basic safety guidelines, it’s a perfect addition to any pool day or summer camp.

This game is easy to adjust for different ages and swimming abilities. Younger Scouts can play with simpler rules and smaller boundaries, while older Scouts can enjoy extra challenges like obstacles or time limits. Whatever the age group, Sharks and Minnows is a great way to bring Scouts together and make the most of their time in the water.

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