Does your child go to army cadets?

[MrsRobbieHart]

My son (12) is thinking about trying it out but he’d like to know what to expect. He has ADHD, possibly autism, is quite an anxious child and has low self esteem so I would like to know if this hobby is right for him. He recently stopped going to scouts after being there for 6 years due to a child who was bullying and dominating the meetings.

He’d like an idea of what happened in army cadet meetings and anything else that would be worth knowing.

TIA

my DS does it but it is through school. I would expect as your DS has ADHD and possible Autism it should suit him. It is very organised and strict, uniform has to be immaculate and you respect the seniors. There is no tomfoolery. I will speak with my DS to ask about the cadet meetings and will let you know what he says.

Thank you @mynameisbrian.

DS was in air cadets and loved it. It is very structured with a clear rank structure. He also had some flying lessons which he really found a lot of fun. He did his Gold DofE, a first aid certificate and a level 4 cert in something that I have forgotten :)

My son has been doing it for nearly a year. Absolutely loves it, there is a lot of support, there is a bit of piss taking on the camps but when the adults and older cadet leaders are around there's none of that allowed. Each detached will differ, obviously, but generally any bad behaviour is stamped out pretty quickly and anyone who tried to get cocky is brought in line. In a respectful and sensible way, obviously.

Meetings are twice a week. Start and finish with parade (standing, marching etc). PT (physical training) once a month, not every session. There are fitness tests but general fitness varies hugely and they are really supportive of those who struggle.

Each week has of classroom stuff where they learn theory, history, country code etc. Fieldcraft sessions where they learn stalking and stuff. Lots of tests, both written and practical but they aren't too demanding. They will get encouragement and support if they struggle.

DS has been on 2 residentials and really enjoyed them, though had to leave the last one early as his shelter collapsed under torrential rain and he got soaked through and had a rubbish night, but he was rescued by the older cadets on patrol (DS should have gone for help rather than huddled up and suffered for a few hours!). It hasn't put him off, he learned from it.

I'd recommend giving it a go, at least. It's not expensive and the only kit you have to buy is boots really, they provide the uniform for free. So you won't be spending a fortune then finding out he doesn't like it.

DS did cadets for several years and absolutely loved it. His ASD was less obvious as he felt very comfortable with all the rules and structure and routine.

Hope your DS enjoys it as much.

Mine has aspergers and goes to air cadets. It's really helped increase his confidence. I can't recommend it enough.

Thank you everyone! I think hearing there are lots of other children with ADHD and/or ASD will help him decide to try it. He was all up for it over the summer but he’s having a wobble now and thinks he mightn’t like it.

Both my boys did CCF through school and enjoyed it (both were in the Army section). Definitely a strong structure and discipline. One of the boys attending did have ASD but coped well, so far as I'm aware.

I used to be an Army Cadet, bloody loved it! Made some friends for life and had such a good laugh. Was a sergeant too 😂

My son has ASD and ADHD. He goes to sea cadets and it is absolutely the best thing he's ever done. His confidence has increased so much, the routine and structure suit and the leaders are very understanding towards him. They are out on the water every session that weather and light allow. This summer he's done sailing, kayaking, rowing and powerboating and the opportunities for when they are older are Incredible. I was very uncertain as to whether it would suit him when he first wanted o go, but now I'd recommend it to anyone.