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AIBU?

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Original poster

AIBU to volunteer at Cubs camp to support my AUDHD son?

31 replies

Floralscent · 04/05/2026 21:51

Hi all,
I’m just looking for a bit of advice/other people’s experiences. My son is due to go on his first Cubs camp soon. He’s really excited, but he’s also AUDHD and can struggle a bit with things like new environments, sleep, and following instructions in a busy group.
I’m already starting to feel a bit anxious about how he’ll manage being away, especially overnight. I absolutely don’t want to hold him back or make him feel different, but at the same time I want to make sure he’s properly supported.

I was wondering if it’s ever appropriate for a parent to offer to help out at camp as a volunteer? I don’t mean hovering over him, just being around in case he needs a bit of extra support settling in. But assisting the other children too of course.

Any advice would be really appreciated!

OP posts:
FionnulaTheCooler · 04/05/2026 21:57

Have you had your background checks done, DBS or PVG, whatever it is in your area? They may not allow you to do if if not.

MCF86 · 04/05/2026 21:57

If you think it will make it more accessible for him, I think it's a lovely thing to do! I'd chat to the leader, be honest about your concerns and ask what they think.

OneTimeThingToday · 04/05/2026 21:57

You would need to go through the whole dbs and volunteer process to become a helper. You may not have time before the camp if its soon.

TurtleGroove · 04/05/2026 21:56

We wouldn’t accept parents on camp - it just changes the whole dynamic and experience for that child, and also leads to other children feeling home sick and wanting their own parent. It would be really disruptive to the whole running of camp in my experience but I know other packs who always take some parents as they don’t have enough non-parent leaders.
We have taken children with additional needs and would meet 1-1 with parents before hand to talk about what is going to work for them. I’d seek this out and hear how they plan to support him, as your starting point, rather than automatically jump to going yourself.

Original poster
Floralscent · 04/05/2026 21:56

I forgot to add he’s only 8.

OP posts:
StolenTeapots · 04/05/2026 21:54

Yanbu