Skills:

Physical: Controlled body position while stopping and holding a float
Cognitive: Impulse control and responding to verbal cues
Social: Group participation

Number of participants:

3 or more

Equipment:

None

Description:

One child stands on the pool deck facing away from the group and is “it.” When they say “Green Light,” swimmers move forward using a designated stroke or kick. When they say “Red Light,” swimmers must immediately stop and hold a controlled floating position. If a swimmer moves after “Red Light,” they return to the start. Continue until one swimmer reaches the leader.

Wheelchair friendly?

Yes

Adaptations for Wheelchair Users:

  • Participants can remain in shallow water with assisted entry.

  • Movement can be modified to supported walking or assisted propulsion.

  • Floating hold can be adapted to supported back float or vertical float with instructor support.

  • Visual cue cards can replace verbal commands if needed.

Modifications to make the activity easier:

Change the equipment:

  • Use a pool noodle for floating support

  • Use visual cue cards instead of verbal commands

Change the task:

  • Allow walking in shallow water

  • Shorten the travel distance

  • Increase time between cues

Modifications to make the activity harder:

Change the equipment:

  • Add gentle water turbulence (small waves created by instructor)

  • Remove floatation devices

Change the task:

  • Increase float hold time to 8–10 seconds

  • Require streamline position when stopping

Goal examples:

  • I will stop on cue and hold a floating position for 5 seconds, 4 out of 5 trials.

  • I can float calmly when I hear “Red Light.”

Activity adapted from video above.