Wolf Paws for Water Adventure
Adventure Type: Elective
Number of Requirements: 6, alternative completion options available
Typical Time to Complete: 1 meeting plus a swimming outing
Parent Involvement: Help with swim preparation, participate in family swimming
Preparation Needed: Arrange swim location, trained supervision, buddy pairs, ability groups
Activity Level: High
Indoor or Outdoor: Indoor or outdoor pool, approved swimming area
Special Requirements: Safe Swim Defense supervision, buddy system, ability groups
Supplies Snapshot: Swimsuits, towels, buddy tags, buddy board, health and consent forms
The Wolf Paws for Water Adventure helps Cub Scouts build confidence in the water while learning swimming safety habits. Wolves practice with their den or family, using the buddy system and staying within their swimming ability group.
During this adventure, Wolves learn how to enter and exit a swimming area safely. They also practice jumping feet first into the water and try a swimming stroke, such as the front crawl, restful backstroke, or breaststroke.
Time in the water gives Wolves a chance to be active and enjoy swimming together. Whether they are beginners or already comfortable in the pool, this adventure encourages them to practice their skills and follow safety rules.
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.
- Learn about the swimming safety rules that you need to follow.
- Demonstrate how to enter the swimming area properly.
- Using the buddy system and staying within your ability group, go swimming with your den or family for 30 minutes.
- Attempt at least one swimming stroke: front crawl, restful backstroke, or breaststroke.
- Jump feet first into water that is chest high or deeper.
- Demonstrate how to exit properly from the swimming area.
Wolf Paws for Water Adventure Requirements
Wolf Paws for Water Adventure Check Off Sheet
Printable checkoff sheet for the Wolf Badge (for den or individual use)
Resources for the Wolf Paws for Water Adventure
Requirement 1: Swimming Safety Rules
Learn about the swimming safety rules that you need to follow.
Review the rules before anyone enters the water, using simple examples Wolves can understand. Have each Scout explain one rule in their own words so you can check their understanding.
Easy Option: Gather beside the pool and ask each Wolf to name one safe swimming behavior. Fill in any rules they missed.
More resources:
- Safe Swim Defense: Learn the safety rules.
- Rules Relay: Cub Scouts will learn swimming rules through a relay race game.
Requirement 2: Enter the Swimming Area
Demonstrate how to enter the swimming area properly.
Show Wolves the designated entrance and explain how to follow the supervisor’s directions. Let them practice one at a time so nobody feels rushed or crowded.
Easy Option: Have each Wolf use the pool steps or ladder while an adult supervises. See Swim Area Safety.
Requirement 3: Swim With a Buddy
Using the buddy system and staying within your ability group, go swimming with your den or family for 30 minutes.
Pair up Wolves before swimming and make sure each pair knows its assigned swimming area. Keep activities simple so Scouts can enjoy the water while staying aware of their buddies and following adult directions.
Easy Option: Plan a 30-minute den or family swim at a supervised pool, with buddies staying in their assigned ability areas. See Go Swimming.
Requirement 4: Try a Swimming Stroke
Attempt at least one swimming stroke: front crawl, restful backstroke, or breaststroke.
The goal is to try a stroke, so encourage effort without expecting polished technique. Ask a swimming instructor or qualified helper to demonstrate slowly, then give each Wolf a short practice turn.
Easy Option: Have a qualified helper demonstrate the front crawl, then let each Wolf attempt it over a short distance in their assigned area. See Swimming Form.
Requirement 5: Jump Feet First
Jump feet first into water that is chest high or deeper.
Have the swimming supervisor choose an approved jumping spot suited to each Scout’s ability. Give Wolves individual turns, keeping the landing area clear and allowing time for each swimmer to move away.
Easy Option: Use a designated pool jumping area with the swimming supervisor directing each Scout’s turn. See Jump On In.
Exit the Swimming Area
Demonstrate how to exit properly from the swimming area.
Show Wolves where to get out and how to use the steps or ladder without crowding. Remind them to walk once they reach the deck and check that their buddy has also left the water.
Easy Option: End the swim with each buddy pair taking turns exiting by the pool steps or ladder. See Getting Out of the Pool.
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.
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