WEBELOS
Aquanaut/
Heart of
America Council
Aquanaut is a term that isn't even found in the new
dictionary, but it is a part of our Webelos Scout terminology. An
aquanaut might be defined as one who is at home in and on the
water.
To help your boys feel at home in the water get them to
play some water games. If they have any fear of water, obtain the
advice of a swimming instructor. The familiarity with water will
normally lead to greater proficiency in water sports, which is the
aim of the requirements for the badge.
One of the main points of
this badge is to teach safety rules. These rules will be found at
every Scout waterfront. The rules may not particularly impress a
Webelos Scout this year at the neighborhood pool where he swims
daily, but next year at summer camp, their value will become
apparent to him.
Rules for a Safe Swim
Heart
of America Council
- Secure adequate facilities
- Teach the Buddy System
- Maintain good discipline
- Follow pool rules
- Teach rescue methods.
- Use a qualifies instructor (Check with a local
troop)
Games
Indian Nations
Council
Aqua-Spud
Number: 4 or more
Organization:
Individual
Equipment: One or two beach
balls
Area: Shallow water
This is a variation of the traditional dry-land
game, which has been so popular through the ages.
All participants stand in a group in the center of
the beginners' area. One player has a light beach ball, which he
throws into the air. As he throws the ball he calls the name of one
of the contestants. This contestant rushes to get possession of the
ball, and all other players scatter as fast and as far as possible.
When the player secures the ball whose name was called, he shouts
"Halt!" All participants stop and stand still. The player
with the ball then has an opportunity to try and hit any one of the
other players by throwing the ball at him. If he hits the one at
whom he is aiming, the player so hit receives one spud. When the
ball strikes a player, he may try to hit someone else. The first
player to receive three spuds must duck under water five
times.
NOTE: The more players, the more fun. Success also
depends on keeping the ball moving rapidly so that the players don't
have much time to 'get set'. If things are moving slowly, use two
balls.
