This discussion paper looks at how people develop into competent, confident, and motivated movers in aquatic environments. Designed for policy-makers, swim program designers, and swim instructors, this document aims to rethink the traditional approach to developing competencies in aquatic environments. This is not designed to be a prescriptive guide for developing physical literacy in aquatic environments. Targeted at aquatics organizations, the purpose of this document is to introduce a new approach, a new way of thinking. This document is also a catalyst for discussion to increase the ability for people to be safe and enjoy aquatic environments.