Arrow of Light Swimming Adventure
Adventure Type: Elective
Number of Requirements: 4
Typical Time to Complete: 1 meeting plus 1 swim outing
Parent Involvement: Help with transportation and forms
Preparation Needed: Arrange a swimming area, qualified supervision, and swimmer testing
Activity Level: Active
Indoor or Outdoor: Pool or other approved swimming area
Special Requirements: Safe Swim Defense, swimmer test attempt, 30 minutes of free swim, buddy checks
Supplies Snapshot: Buddy tags, buddy board, rescue pole or towel, flotation device, whistles
The Arrow of Light Swimming Adventure gives Scouts a chance to build confidence in the water while learning how to swim safely. They begin by reviewing Safe Swim Defense and the rules that help keep everyone safe.
Scouts also learn the order of rescue. They practice reaching and throwing from land so they can help someone in trouble without entering the water themselves.
To finish the adventure, Scouts attempt the Scouting America swimmer test and enjoy at least 30 minutes of free swim. During that time, they use the buddy system, stay within their ability group, and take part in regular buddy checks.
Requirements for the Arrow of Light Swimming Adventure
Swimming Adventure Requirements
- Review the Safe Swim Defense.
- Explain the meaning of “order of rescue” and demonstrate the reach and throw rescue techniques from land.
- Attempt the Scouting America swimmer test.
- Have 30 minutes, or more, of free swim time where you practice the Buddy System and stay within your ability group. The qualified adult supervision should do at least three buddy checks per half hour swimming.
Printable requirements for the Arrow of Light Swimming Adventure
Checkoff sheet to keep track of your den's progress on the Arrow of Light Swimming Adventure
Printable checkoff sheet for the Arrow of Light Rank (for den or individual use)
Resources for the Arrow of Light Swimming Adventure
Requirement 1: Safe Swim Defense
Review Safe Swim Defense.
Help Scouts connect the safety rules to situations they might see at a pool or lake. Ask who watches the water, where each ability group swims, and what Scouts should do when they hear a buddy check.
Easy option: Play Swimming Do’s and Don’ts at a den meeting before the swim outing.
More resources:
Requirement 2: Order of Rescue
Explain the meaning of “order of rescue” and demonstrate the reach and throw rescue techniques from land.
Practice on dry land so Scouts can focus on helping without putting themselves in danger. Give them a towel or rescue pole for reaching and a flotation device for throwing, then let each Scout try both techniques.
Easy option: Set up one pretend rescue on shore and have each Scout demonstrate a reach and a throw.
More resources:
- Water Rescue Methods Information: Cub Scouts should only attempt reach and throw rescues.
- Order of Rescue AOL: Cub Scouts learn the order of rescue and practice reach and throw rescue techniques.
Requirement 3: Swimmer Test
Attempt the Scouting America swimmer test.
Let families know ahead of time that Scouts need to attempt the test, so they can arrive ready to swim. Remind Scouts that the goal is to try; passing the test is not required to complete this adventure.
Easy option: Arrange for the test to be offered at the start of the den’s swim outing.
Here is an option for fulfilling Arrow of Light Swimmer Adventure requirement 3:
- More about the Swimmer Test: See information and resources.
- Swimmer Test AOL: Cub Scouts attempt the BSA swimmer test.
Requirement 4: Go Swimming
Have 30 minutes or more of free swim time during which you practice the buddy system and stay within your ability group. The qualified adult supervision should conduct at least three buddy checks per half hour of swimming.
Use free swim time to help Scouts practice staying with their buddies and swimming in the area assigned to their ability group. Buddy checks remind them the importance of staying together.
Easy option: Schedule 30 minutes of free swim after the swimmer test and use a timer to prompt buddy checks.
More resources:
- Buddy System: More information and resources about the Buddy System.
- Aquatics Safety: Learn about water hazards and safety.
- Sharks and Minnows: A fun game which can be played in the shallow end for all swimming abilities.
- Go Swimming AOL: Take your patrol and go swimming.
Frequently Asked Questions for the Arrow of Light Swimming Adventure
What is the Arrow of Light Swimming Adventure?
The swimming adventure is a program where AOL Scouts learn about swimming safety, practice swimming skills, and have fun in the water.
Why do we review Safe Swim Defense in the swimming adventure?
We review Safe Swim Defense to make sure all Scouts know how to stay safe while swimming. It helps prevent accidents and ensures everyone knows what to do in an emergency.
Do I have to pass the Scouting America swimmer test to complete the swimming adventure?
No. The adventure does not require that you pass the test, just that you attempt it.
How does the buddy system work in the swimming adventure?
In the buddy system, each Scout pairs up with another Scout. They stay close together and keep an eye on each other during swimming to make sure both are safe.
What are buddy checks in the swimming adventure?
Buddy checks are when the adult in charge stops the swimming and checks that each Scout is with their buddy. This happens at least three times every half hour.
Can all Scouts participate in the swimming adventure, even if they are not strong swimmers?
Yes, all Scouts can join. They will swim in areas that match their swimming abilities. This keeps everyone safe while they have fun and learn.
Swim into Fun and Safety!
The Arrow of Light Swimming Adventure is designed for AOL Scouts to learn important swimming skills and understand water safety. This adventure starts with reviewing Safe Swim Defense, ensuring that all participants know how to keep swimming activities safe and enjoyable. Scouts then explore the meaning of “order of rescue” and practice rescue techniques from the shore, such as reaching and throwing aids to a swimmer in distress.
The next challenge is to attempt the Scouting America swimmer test, where Scouts demonstrate their swimming abilities by completing a series of tasks in the water. This test assesses their comfort and skill in deeper water, promoting confidence and physical fitness.
Lastly, Scouts enjoy free swim time, applying the buddy system and staying within their ability groups. Adult supervisors conduct frequent buddy checks to ensure safety. This part of the adventure allows Scouts to practice their new skills in a fun and controlled environment, strengthening friendships and teamwork.
The Arrow of Light Swimming Adventure teaches swimming and safety, and also encourages personal growth and team cooperation among Scouts.
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