Name
Vampire Sleep
One-Liner
With your feet on top of the lane line and your arms in Vampire Sleep, keep your belly button and face above water for 5 seconds.
Success Criteria
The child keeps their belly button and face above water for 5 seconds while lying on their back, without opening their eyes or moving.
Failure Criteria
The child opens their eyes, moves their arms or legs, or lets their belly button or face dip below the water before the 5 seconds are up.
Core Skill
Back float relaxation and breath control
Who
Beginner to intermediate swimmers who are learning to float on their back. Best for children ages 3–8.
What
Kids lie on their back on a pool noodle or floatie, close their eyes, and pretend to be vampires sleeping in their coffins. The instructor or another kid tries to wake them up by splashing water or making noises. The kids must stay still and not open their eyes until they hear a magic word like “sunrise” or “garlic.”
How
- Give each child a pool noodle or floatie to support their back.
- Have them lie on their back with their arms crossed over their chest (vampire sleep position).
- Tell them to close their eyes and pretend they are sleeping vampires.
- The instructor or a partner gently splashes water or makes funny noises to try to wake them.
- Kids must stay still and keep their eyes closed until they hear the magic word.
- When the magic word is called, they can open their eyes and sit up.
- Repeat for several rounds, gradually increasing the time they need to stay still.
Difficulties Instructors Might Face
Some children may be nervous about floating on their back without support. Start with a noodle under their shoulders and neck for extra buoyancy. If a child opens their eyes or moves too soon, gently remind them of the vampire theme and try again with a shorter time. Splashing should be gentle to avoid startling them. The magic word should be simple and fun—let the kids choose it for extra engagement.