Swimming Requirements for Rank

[evmori]

I was asked an interesting question yesterday after church. The Advancement Chair from a neighboring Troop asked about alternate requirements to the swimming requirements for 2nd & 1st Class. It seems there is a Scout in his unit that has a spastic leg problem and can't swim at all! He has obtained the necessary approval from Council to use alternative requirements but has no idea what would be fair to use as alternates. Any suggestions?

[MisterChris]

The text of the BSA policy on this (didn't know, did some digging) indicates the scout must complete as much of these requirements as he can.

As a layman, I would suggest they consider whether the scout could wear a life vest and perform much of the swimming requirements using his arms if possible. It would require practice but is possible. This may get him over any fear of water, while showing him that he CAN swim with assist. And build up his upper body.

This might open him to the possibility of swimtime with the guys. (wearing a vest, of course).

[FrankJ]

What the alternative requirements were should have been covered when they were approved by the council. Otherwise it is kind of a pig in a poke. I would get the advice of a physical therapist familar with the Scout.

[MisterChris]

What the alternative requirements were should have been covered when they were approved by the council. Otherwise it is kind of a pig in a poke. I would get the advice of a physical therapist familar with the Scout.

Council probably can't make a judgement call on the scout, every case is different. For instance the difference btwn a paraplegiac and quadroplegiac, or (I see on another thread) simply aquaphobic. I agree concerning a doctor's recommendation concerning the alternative requirements. You certainly don't want to require something the scout cannot do. Or require something that may harm him.

I believe the wording states that the council DOES have to approve the alternate requirements. A doctor's recommendation probably would make that a 'shoe-in'.

Of course careful documentation and procedures need to be followed to enable the scout to make Eagle. National needs proof that the disability is permanent (doctor's diagnosis) and proof that alternate requirements were approved by council.

[FrankJ]

Of course every case is different. My point is the request the council approves is supposed to detail the alternative requirements which would be taylored to suit the individuals disability. I actually think your idea about using a life vest works well in this case.