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Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure

The Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure is part of the Cub Scout program. It teaches Scouts how to handle paddle crafts like canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards. This adventure helps Webelos learn important skills and safety rules for boating. It is a great way for Scouts to have fun outdoors while learning how to be safe on the water.

Participating in the Webelos Paddle Onward adventure helps Webelos grow stronger and more confident. They learn to swim properly and handle different situations they might face on the water. These skills are important for personal safety and can be useful throughout their lives. It’s also a good way for Scouts to get exercise and enjoy nature.

The Paddle Onward Adventure also teaches teamwork and problem-solving. Scouts work together and help each other learn how to paddle and stay safe. They discuss what to do if something unexpected happens, like tipping over in a kayak. This helps them think quickly and stay calm in emergencies.

The Webelos Paddle Onward adventure is about becoming responsible and skilled outdoorsmen. Webelos learn important life skills while having a lot of fun. It’s a great way for Scouts to explore the outdoors and learn things that will help them in many areas of life.

Requirements for the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure

Paddle Onward Adventure Requirements

  1. Before attempting requirements 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 for this Adventure, you must pass the BSA swimmer test.      
  2. Pick a paddle craft for which to complete all requirements: canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard (SUP). 
  3. Review Safety Afloat. 
  4. Demonstrate how to choose  and properly wear a life jacket  that is the correct size.  
  5. Jump feet first into water over your head while wearing a life jacket  Then swim 25 feet wearing the life jacket.  
  6. Demonstrate how to enter and exit a canoe, kayak, or SUP safely.   
  7. Discuss what to do if your canoe or kayak tips over or you fall off your SUP.  
  8. Learn how to pick a paddle that is the right size for you.  Explore how the paddle craft responds to moving the paddle.
  9. Have 30 minutes, or more, of canoe, kayak, or SUP paddle time.  

Printable requirements for the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure

Check off sheet to keep track of your den’s progress on the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure

Webelos Adventures Check Off Sheet

Resources for the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure

Webelos Paddle Onward Requirement 1: Swimmer Test

Before attempting requirements 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 for this Adventure, you must pass the BSA swimmer test.

Before Webelos Scouts start some of the main activities in the Paddle Onward Adventure, they need to pass the BSA Swimmer Test. This is important because it ensures that the Scouts are safe and ready to handle being in and around water. Here’s what happens in the BSA Swimmer Test:

  • Jump into Water: The Scout must jump feet first into water that is over their head. This tests their ability to enter deep water safely.
  • Swim Strokes: After jumping in, the Scout needs to level out and then swim 75 yards in a strong manner using one or more swim strokes (like freestyle, breaststroke, or backstroke). This part of the test shows that they can swim well.
  • Rest by Floating: After the 75-yard swim, the Scout must swim 25 yards using a resting or easy stroke. This could be an elementary backstroke or a sidestroke.
  • Float: The final part is floating. After completing the swimming, the Scout must float on their back for about one minute. This helps show they can stay calm and keep their face out of the water if they get tired.

Learn more about the BSA Swimmer Test.

Here is an option for fulfilling Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure requirement 1:

Passing this test helps ensure that Webelos are prepared to safely enjoy water activities during their adventure. It’s a good way to make sure that all Scouts have the basic swimming skills needed for safe boating.

Webelos Paddle Onward Requirement 2: Choose a Paddlecraft

Pick a paddle craft for which to complete all requirements: canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard.

For the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure, Scouts need to choose a type of paddle craft to use. They can pick from a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddle board. Each type of paddle craft offers a different experience on the water.

  • Canoe: A canoe is a boat that you sit inside. It usually holds two or more people. You use a single-bladed paddle to move through the water. Canoes are good for carrying gear and are stable, making them great for longer trips or carrying supplies.
  • Kayak: A kayak is smaller and narrower than a canoe. You sit on the bottom with your legs in front. Kayaks can be for one person or two. They use a double-bladed paddle. Kayaks are fast and easy to maneuver, which makes them fun for exploring and getting through tight spaces.
  • Stand-up Paddle Board (SUP): On a stand-up paddle board, you stand up and use a long paddle with one blade. It’s like surfing but calmer. SUPs are good for balance and strength training because you stand the whole time.

Here is an option for fulfilling Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure requirement 2:

  • Webelos Pick a Paddle
    • Cub Scouts pick from one of the paddle crafts to complete remaining requirements.
    • Supplies: paper, pencils
    • indoor very low energy, minimal prep

Choosing the right paddle craft depends on what the Scout is comfortable with and what they want to learn. Each type offers a unique way to experience the water and develop different skills.

Webelos Paddle Onward Requirement 3: Safety Afloat

Review Safety Afloat.

For the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure, requirement 3 is to review “Safety Afloat.” Safety Afloat is a set of guidelines created by the Boy Scouts of America to make sure all boating activities are safe. Here are the key points Scouts learn in Safety Afloat:

  • Qualified Supervision: All boating activities must be overseen by an adult who understands and follows these safety rules.
  • Personal Fitness: Everyone must have a health review before participating to ensure they are fit for the activity.
  • Swimming Ability: Participants should be tested on their swimming skills to make sure they can handle being in the water.
  • Life Jackets: Everyone must wear a properly fitting life jacket at all times on the water.
  • Buddy System: Scouts should always use the buddy system, pairing up to keep an eye on each other.
  • Skill Proficiency: Before going out on the water, Scouts must be taught how to handle their paddle craft safely.
  • Planning: The activity must be planned properly, including making sure the location is safe and suitable for paddling.
  • Equipment: All equipment used must be in good condition and suitable for the activity.
  • Discipline: Everyone must follow the rules and directions given during the activity to stay safe.

Read more about Safety Afloat.

Here is an option for fulfilling Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure requirement 3:

  • Webelos Swimming Safely
    • Cub Scouts review the attributes of being on the water safely.
    • Supplies: Safety Afloat Review cards
    • indoor, very low energy, 1 to 3 days prep

Reviewing Safety Afloat helps ensure that all Scouts have a safe and fun experience on the water for the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure. It teaches them to be responsible and cautious while enjoying boating activities.

Webelos Paddle Onward Requirement 4: Life Jacket (PFD)

Demonstrate how to choose  and properly wear a life jacket  that is the correct size. 

For the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure, requirement 4 focuses on life jackets. It’s important for Scouts to know how to pick the right life jacket and wear it correctly to stay safe on the water. Here’s how they learn to do this:

  • Choosing the Right Size: Scouts must choose a life jacket that fits them well. It should not be too big or too small. A life jacket that is too large can slip over their head when in water, and one that is too small may not keep them afloat.
  • Checking the Fit: After putting on the life jacket, Scouts should check the fit by lifting the shoulders of the jacket. If it moves up over their chin or ears, it’s too big.
  • Fastening the Life Jacket: Scouts need to fasten all straps and buckles on the life jacket. They should be snug but comfortable, ensuring the jacket stays secure on their body.
  • Final Check: Once the life jacket is on and secured, Scouts should do a final check by moving around to make sure they can move freely and that the jacket does not restrict their breathing.

Here is an option for fulfilling Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure requirement 4:

  • Webelos Life Jacket Safety
    • Cub Scouts learn about life jackets.
    • Supplies: Coast Guard approved life jackets
    • indoor, low energy, 1 to 3 days prep

Learning to choose and wear a life jacket properly is crucial because it keeps Scouts safe while they are in or near the water. This skill helps prevent accidents and ensures that water activities are enjoyable and secure.

Webelos Paddle Onward Requirement 5: Swimming with a Life Jacket

Jump feet first into water over your head while wearing a life jacket  Then swim 25 feet wearing the life jacket. 

Requirement 5 of the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure focuses on making sure Scouts can safely enter deep water and swim with a life jacket. Here’s how this requirement is met:

  • Jump Feet First: Scouts are taught to jump feet first into water that is deeper than they are tall. This is the safest way to enter deep water because it prevents injury.
  • Swimming with a Life Jacket: After jumping in, Scouts must swim 25 feet while wearing the life jacket. This helps them learn how the life jacket affects their swimming and how to move in the water while wearing one.

Here is an option for fulfilling Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure requirement 5:

This requirement for the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure is important because it gives Scouts confidence in the water. It also teaches them how to handle themselves safely if they fall into water unexpectedly. This skill is essential for any water-related activities and ensures their safety while enjoying boating and swimming.

Webelos Paddle Onward Requirement 6: Entering and Exiting

Demonstrate how to enter and exit a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard safely.

Requirement 6 of the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure teaches Scouts how to safely enter and exit different types of paddle crafts. This is important for preventing accidents and injuries. Here’s how Scouts learn to manage each type of craft:

Canoe

  • Entering a Canoe: Scouts learn to keep their weight low and centered. They should step into the middle of the canoe one foot at a time while holding onto both sides for balance.
  • Exiting a Canoe: To exit safely, Scouts reverse the entry steps. They should move to the middle of the canoe, keep their weight low, and step out one foot at a time, holding onto the canoe for stability.

Kayak

  • Entering a Kayak: Scouts should place the paddle across the kayak to stabilize it and then sit down in the cockpit from a kneeling position beside the kayak.
  • Exiting a Kayak: When getting out, Scouts keep the kayak stable using the paddle and lift themselves up from the sitting position before stepping out carefully.

Stand-up Paddle Board (SUP)

  • Getting Onto a SUP: Scouts start by placing the board in shallow water. They then climb onto the board on their knees, starting from the center.
  • Getting Off a SUP: To get off, Scouts should drop back to their knees from the standing position and then move to the side of the board to stand up in the water.

Here are some options for fulfilling Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure requirement 6:

By learning these techniques for the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure, Scouts can safely enjoy their time on the water without risking tipping over their craft or falling into the water unexpectedly. This requirement builds confidence and promotes safety in all paddling activities.

Webelos Paddle Onward Requirement 7: Be Prepared

Discuss what to do if your canoe or kayak tips over or you fall off your stand-up paddleboard.

Requirement 7 of the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure teaches Scouts what to do if their canoe or kayak tips over, or if they fall off a stand-up paddle board. This is crucial for safety in water activities. Here’s what Scouts learn:

  • Stay Calm: The first step is to stay calm and hold onto the paddle craft if possible. Panicking can make the situation worse.
  • Life Jacket: Scouts should keep their life jacket on, which helps them stay afloat and reduces the risk of drowning.
  • Getting Back to the Craft:
    • Canoe or Kayak: If a canoe or kayak tips over, Scouts should swim to the side of it. On site instructors should teach them techniques to flip it back over and then to get back in.
    • Stand-up Paddle Board: If they fall off a paddle board, it’s usually easier to get back on. Scouts should approach the board from the side, grab it, and pull themselves up onto it.
  • Signal for Help: If Scouts are unable to get back into their craft or if conditions are unsafe, they should stay with the craft (since it’s easier to see from a distance) and signal for help.

Here are some options for fulfilling Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure requirement 7:

This requirement for the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure teaches Scouts how to handle emergencies calmly and effectively. Knowing what to do when a paddle craft tips over or when falling off is key to preventing panic and ensuring safety on the water.

Webelos Paddle Onward Requirement 8: Paddles

Learn how to pick a paddle that is the right size for you.  Explore how the paddle craft responds to moving the paddle.

Requirement 8 of the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure focuses on choosing the right paddle for the Scout and understanding how it affects the movement of the paddle craft. This is essential for efficient and safe paddling. Here’s what Scouts learn:

Choosing the Right Size Paddle

  • Height and Paddle Length: Scouts learn that the paddle length should generally be based on their height, the type and size of craft, and their paddling style.
  • Width of the Craft: Wider crafts like some kayaks or paddle boards might require a longer paddle to reach the water comfortably.

Using the Paddle

  • Canoe: When paddling a canoe, Scouts learn to use a single-bladed paddle. They practice different strokes like the forward stroke, turning stroke, and stopping stroke. They observe how each stroke affects the canoe’s path and speed.
  • Kayak: Kayaking involves a double-bladed paddle. Scouts learn to alternate strokes on each side of the kayak to move forward, and how to angle their blades to turn or stop.
  • Stand-up Paddle Board: With a SUP, Scouts use a single long paddle. They practice how to paddle on one side to go straight and switch sides to turn. They also learn how to use the paddle to balance.

Here are some options for fulfilling Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure requirement 8:

Understanding how to pick and use the right paddle for the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure helps Scouts control their paddle craft effectively. This knowledge makes paddling easier, more enjoyable, and safer, as the Scout can manage how their boat responds in the water.

Webelos Paddle Onward Requirement 9: Go Paddling

Have 30 minutes, or more, of canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard paddle time.

Requirement 9 of the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure is about getting hands-on experience with paddling. Scouts are required to spend at least 30 minutes paddling in a canoe, kayak, or on a stand-up paddle board. Here’s the purpose of this requirement:

  • Practice Time: This time allows Scouts to practice the skills they have learned. They can use the paddle techniques and safety measures they’ve been taught.
  • Building Confidence: By spending continuous time on the water, Scouts build their confidence. They become more comfortable handling their paddle craft and navigating on water.
  • Enjoying the Outdoors: This requirement also encourages Scouts to enjoy being outdoors and appreciate nature while engaging in a healthy physical activity.
  • Applying Lessons Learned: Scouts get to apply everything from how to wear their life jacket properly to how to control their paddle craft using different strokes.

Here is an option for fulfilling Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure requirement 9:

This requirement is a practical application of all previous learning in the Paddle Onward Adventure, reinforcing skills and ensuring Scouts feel competent and secure while paddling.

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.

Supervision must be by an adult, 21 or older, trained in BSA Safety Afloat. At least one leader must be trained in first aid, including CPR. Any swimming must follow BSA Safe Swim Defense standards.

  • Complete the BSA Safety Afloat training (30 minutes) on my.scouting.
  • Ensure enough adults to maintain a ratio of one supervisor for every 5 Cub Scouts.
  • Have buddy tags for everyone near the water, both youth and adults.

During the Adventure:

  • Provide an overview and instruction on Safety Afloat before the activity.
  • Ensure continuous, qualified adult supervision and discipline during the activity.
  • All participants, both Cub Scouts and adults, must wear life jackets during boating activities. Review the Life Jackets/Personal Flotation Devices Safety Moment.

More information

Frequently Asked Questions for the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure

What do I need to do before starting the paddling requirements for the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure?

Before you start paddling, you must pass the BSA Swimmer Test. This test makes sure you can swim safely.

Can I choose any paddle craft for the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure?

Yes, you can choose from a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddle board to complete the requirements.

What is Safety Afloat?

Safety Afloat is a set of safety rules for water activities. You must review these rules to learn how to stay safe while boating.

How do I know if my life jacket fits correctly?

Your life jacket fits well if it doesn’t move above your chin or ears when you pull it up at the shoulders. It should be snug but not too tight.

What should I do if my canoe or kayak tips over?

Stay calm, stay with your craft, and use the techniques you learned to get back in. Always keep your life jacket on.

Why do I need to practice paddling for at least 30 minutes for the Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure?

Practicing helps you get better at controlling your paddle craft and increases your confidence on the water.

How do I pick the right size paddle?

A paddle is the right size if, when standing, the top reaches between your chin and the top of your head. It should feel comfortable when you use it.

What should I do if I fall off a stand-up paddle board?

Try to climb back onto the board from the side. Stay calm and keep your life jacket on for safety.

Making Waves with Webelos

The Webelos Paddle Onward Adventure is a hands-on experience that teaches young Scouts about paddling sports. Webelos learn to safely use canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards. This adventure emphasizes safety, teamwork, and physical fitness.

First, Scouts must pass the BSA Swimmer Test to ensure they can handle themselves in deep water. They then choose a paddle craft to focus on. Next, Scouts review Safety Afloat rules, essential for all water activities. They learn how to select and wear life jackets properly, ensuring safety is a priority.

Scouts practice entering and exiting their chosen paddle craft. They also discuss how to react if the craft tips over. This teaches calm and effective responses in emergencies. Scouts learn how to pick the right paddle and how it influences the craft’s movement in the water.

Finally, Scouts spend at least 30 minutes paddling. This practice helps them apply their new skills and gain confidence on the water. Throughout the Webelos Paddle Onward adventure, Scouts develop boating skills along with teamwork and problem-solving abilities.

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