Game Instructions: Red Light, Green Light (Swim Style) - Swimming with Confidence

Game Instructions: Red Light, Green Light (Swim Style)

Red Light, Green Light is a flexible swim game that builds listening skills, body control, and foundational swimming movements. It's great for a wide range of ages and easily customizable to match your child's swim level.

How to Play:

  1. Choose one person to be the “light keeper.” This person will call out “Red light!” and “Green light!”
  2. The swimmer(s) start at one end of the pool and move toward the light keeper when they hear “Green light!”
  3. When “Red light!” is called, swimmers must stop or freeze in place.
  4. Repeat until a swimmer reaches the light keeper. Switch roles if you want.

Variations by Age:

Ages 0–2

  • Play on the steps or shallowest area.
  • Practice simple walking or stepping motions with pauses.

Ages 3–4

  • Use the alligator crawl: hands on the pool floor while moving forward.
  • If a swimmer continues moving after “Red light” is called, they return to their starting position and try again.

Later Beginners (5+)

  • Practice bunny hopping in chest-deep water.
  • Or walk using big arms (like swim strokes) as they move forward.

 

 

Want more swim games and skill-building ideas?
Get the full flashcard set or check out the complete Swim Lesson in a Box for structured, parent-led lessons.

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