To not let DSs go to different Scout groups?

[bikeybo]

My boys are 10 and 12. 12 year old joined Scouts when he was 10 and now youngest son has just been offered a place. Oldest has a massive strop on and doesn't want him coming to the same group. Youngest likes the idea because he will be with his brother. Who do I pick? Because the outcome only suits one of them. I'm thinking the one that's easier for me!! So they have to go to the same? AIBU?

When I was 10 I probably wouldn't want my younger brother going "my" activity either. My parents would have rightly said "tough luck". It's natural for him not to want his younger brother to cramp his style but it's also nature; and correct not to let him get his way.

Our ds2 tends to rely overly on ds1 in social situations. They go to different scout groups and it benefits both of them.

Tough shit, ds1! Are there groups within the group, like brownies have sixes? You could ask for them to be separated that way as a compromise?

I would say your reasoning is spot on - whichever you choose one of them will be put out so go with the one that suits you best. Be aware that if you do agree to do different groups it might make your life impossible if they do parades i.e. St. George's or Remembrance Day at different locations or if activities clash like camps etc, plus you might get lucky and have them both away for a weekend together or similar if they are in the same pack - good luck!

Can I ask where DS2's friends are going? I am aware part of the attraction of the group my DS goes to is the fact his best mates go there.

As a scouting leader I sympathise with your ds1 and there would be accommodations we could make in terms of not putting them in the same patrol and so on, but I would also say to him that he's not exactly showing a good scouting attitude to his brother.