Any other 'Squirrel' Leaders out there?

[Rebi]

Hi there!

I have been a squirrel leader for the last 4 years (since ds started). Really enjoy it. For those who don't know, 'Squirrels' is 4 & 5 year old Scouts (predominantly boys but approx 1/3 girls).

I have only seen this group in action, so was wondering how other groups plan their time, what they do, where they go, etc. Would love to swop ideas for themes, etc.

Any other Red/Grey/Brown Squirrels out there? Or even other similar age group leaders?

(have to leave work shortly, so won't be around until this evening)

I thought little Scouts were Cubs and Beavers? Are Squirrels little Beavers then?

mu ds is a beacer

loves uit

beaver

Beavers are 6 and 7 year olds, Cubs are 8 and 9 (I think!). Not every group has Squirrels, just groups who want to catch their intake early!!

Ds,nearly 7 is a Beaver and absolutely loves it - they come home nearly every week with something they've made/cooked/planted !

I'm sure this discussion has been had before but the Beaver promise is "I promise to do my best, to be kind and helpful and to love God". Now, I understand that "god" can mean any god but what if the child is not being raised in a religion? Do they still have to make this promise?

Soupdragon - the Squirrel promise is "I promise to be a good Squirrel and to love God". We had a Muslim family in the group a few years ago. The Mum had no problem with this because (as you say) it could imply any God, but in the prayer it mentions 'Dear Lord Jesus', which she wasn't happy about. Her children just didn't say the prayer. I think the Scout movement is a Christian organisation (I am no expert, just what I was told), so to remove the prayer was considered a no-go.

So I take it I am alone in the Squirrel leader department?! Anybody out theeeeeeerrrreeeeeeeee?......

I am sure that the scouting momvement is traditionally a christian movement but it does not discriminate against any race, religion, creed, etc.

this is their site

I couldn't find any info about Squirrels - are you sure you're not the only lot?

I would imagine that when/where the scouting movement was set up, Christianity was the "norm". Whilst nominally CofE, I surprised myself by wondering whether I'd be happy for DSs to promise to love god when we don't really believe. Anyway, there are no Squirrels round here so it will be next year before I have to worry about it if he asks to go to Beavers.

Should have been a smiley after the first line

I couldn't even find mention of Squirrels on what appeared to be the scout website.

Soupdragon - the promise bit is such a tiny tiny tiny bit of the whole experience that to me it is by the by. iykwim. We are non-religious in our house. To be honest I haven't thought too much about it. Planning themes, games, crafts, outings, admin work for the Squirrels takes up a lot more of my time!!

I have started working on next year's programme, and as I am bumping this up by answering Soupdragon, is there anyone else out there with ideas for groups (not necessarily Squirrels!)aged 4-5?

Sorry to resurrect a very old thread, but I just wanted to explain that while Squirrels are indeed 4&5 year old Scouts, they currently only run in Northern Ireland (officially at least).

HOWEVER, there is currently a limited trial in the rest of the UK for a section called 'Hedgehogs'. Again, 4 and 5 year olds. I really hope it takes off, BUT we need more leaders who can commit to making it happen.

While there was a Christian ethos to Scouting back in the day, we are now much more diverse and welcome everyone regardless of faith (or none).

So, if you have a younger child (boy or girl) please do not be afraid to speak you your local group (better still District Commissioner as its not as well known among section leaders as it could be yet).

Better still, consider volunteering to run a 'nest' (as Hedgehog sections are called) yourself once it gets up and running properly, so that a number of children can benefit.