Name
Mushroom Man
Core Skill
Going underwater willingly and comfortably.
Who
Level 1 swimmers who are learning to put their face in the water and submerge completely.
What
A fun, low-pressure game where kids swim underwater to reach the "Mushroom Man" (an instructor or helper standing in the water with arms outstretched like a mushroom). The goal is to get to the mushroom without any falling water touching them. Once they reach the mushroom, they get a reward: a chance to dance around the mushroom while being rained on (splashed gently).
How
- Designate one person as the Mushroom Man. They stand in the water with arms extended to the sides, palms up, like a mushroom cap.
- Players start a short distance away, at the edge of the pool or in shallow water.
- On "Go!" each player must go underwater (submerge completely) and swim or walk toward the Mushroom Man.
- If any falling water (splashes, drops from the Mushroom Man's hands) touches a player while they are moving, they must stop and try again from the start.
- The first player to reach the Mushroom Man without being touched by falling water wins the reward: they get to stand under the Mushroom Man's "cap" (arms) and dance while the Mushroom Man gently splashes water over them.
Difficulties Instructors Might Face
Some children may be hesitant to go underwater at first. Encourage them by demonstrating the game yourself or pairing them with a more confident buddy. Keep the distance short initially and gradually increase it as they gain comfort. Make sure the "raining" reward is gentle and fun, not overwhelming — the goal is to build positive associations with water on the face.
