Chat thread to help us Scout leaders be better at it!

[exhaustedbeaverleader]

So this weekend I helped at my first Beaver sleepover as a Leader, I picked up quite a few things from the more experienced leaders about how best to look after the kids. I thought it might be nice to exchange tips, especially Beavers but also Cubs and Scouts as I know lots of people cover more than one section on occasion 🙂

Camp survived. Exhausted doesn't cover it. Glad I'm not 'on duty' for the next one in December.

I aim to get my Nights Away permit by this time next year. I am mad...

My top camping tip is to sleep in something that looks like clothes. I always have jogging bottoms, yoga bra and thin jumper. Then if you have to get up in the night or early you look like you are dressed. I usually grab a chance to get washed and changed in the lull after breakfast.

I'M a brownie leader

I would say dont compare yourself to other units.. Good or bad. We are all volunteers doing our best to give the kids a safe space to have fun and learn some skills

On indoor residentials I give the parents a check in sheet..
Find bunk, make bed, pj's under pillow, wellies at the door., waterproof jacket hung up, medication. Handed in, slippers on feet

Doesn't work for everyone.. Some leaders like kids dropped and left.
I just find this means I am not facing.. I know it's poring but I don't have a jacket type scenarios

My DS, who was really keen to start Beavers and enjoyed it to begin with, has recently given up because he hates the noise. I don't know how the noise levels were dealt with but it can't be by just shouting over it (I'm wondering if that's what was going on as DS isn't a particularly quiet kid himself).