Name

Frozen Magic

Core Skill

This swimming game focuses on front and back glides while incorporating the element of fun through imagination and role-play. It helps young swimmers practice staying in a streamlined position and maintaining body control in the water.

Who

This game is perfect for children aged 3-6 years who are at the Guppies, Level 1, and Level 2 swimming levels.

What

The instructor, acting as Elsa from Disney’s Frozen, “freezes” the swimmers in various swimming poses such as Soldier, position 11, or streamline. The instructor then performs a supported front or back glide with the “frozen” swimmer. Swimmers can also be frozen in goofy or funny poses, and the instructor must maintain these poses during the glide. The game includes switching roles, so each child gets a chance to be Elsa.

How

1. The instructor pretends to be Elsa and uses “magic” to freeze the swimmer in a chosen pose.
2. The swimmer must remain stiff and still, like an ice statue, while frozen.
3. The instructor performs a supported front or back glide with the swimmer while they are in the frozen position.
4. After the glide, Elsa “unfreezes” the swimmer and returns them to the bench or wall.
5. If the swimmer was frozen in a funny or goofy pose, the instructor keeps them in that pose during the glide.
6. After one round, switch who gets to be Elsa and freeze others.
7. The instructor can use a bucket to give themselves Protection or Shell if the freezing gets too intense. Shell or Protection prevents Elsa’s frozen magic from working on them.
8. If the instructor is frozen, they must pretend to be frozen until unfrozen by Elsa, unless safety concerns require intervention.

Difficulties Instructors Might Face

1. Keeping Control: Young children might get overly excited, making it challenging to maintain order and ensure everyone is safe.
2. Safety Concerns: Maintaining safety while ensuring fun poses and activities can be challenging, especially if children become too enthusiastic or try risky moves.
3. Attention Span: Keeping the attention of 3-6-year-olds for the duration of the game can be difficult. Frequent role-switching and dynamic activities are necessary to keep them engaged.
4. Balancing Fun and Learning: Ensuring that children are learning essential swimming skills while having fun can be tricky. Instructors need to balance structured practice with playful elements.
5. Consistent Freezing: The instructor needs to ensure that the freezing and unfreezing happen consistently and safely, avoiding confusion and maintaining the flow of the game.

This game combines imagination, fun, and fundamental swimming skills, making it an engaging and educational activity for young swimmers.