Learn to Swim games - Ring-a-roses

Ring-a-roses is a popular game that can be played throughout the Learn to Swim stages.

How to play Ring-a-roses

Ring-a-roses sees children travel around in a circle, in either a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction, while singing the popular nursery rhyme.

Children can travel around using jumping, skipping, hopping or swimming movements, and the final part of the song can be substituted for any action.

For example, the children can blow bubbles or hide under the water.

Depending on the Learn to Swim Stage Award, this activity can help swimmers get used to having water on their face, improve their aquatic breathing and work on their travel and coordination.

Learn to Swim Ring-a-roses video

Click or tap play below to watch a video explaining how to play Ring-a-roses.

Explore the Swim England Learn to Swim companion

Want to know more about learning to swim with the Swim England Learn to Swim Stages? Use the links below:

• Learn to Swim Stage 1-7 Awards – the Swim England Learn to Swim Stage 1-7 Awards are divided into progressive stages. They make up the core, national syllabus of learning to swim for primary school aged children.
• The My Learn to Swim App – bring the fun of swimming lessons home and celebrate your children collecting their Awards. Unlock characters and stickers to use in this mobile and tablet app.
• Disney Family Fun Sessions – join in the fun of a Disney-inspired swimming session, delivered by trained activators. Sessions are taking place throughout England, Scotland and Wales.
• Find a pool – not sure where your local pool is or what facilities there are? Head to our Poolfinder to search for your local pool.