Squirrel Appreciation Day
In the past early years has always been considered the unimportant part of education and when working in this field you come to realise that it is the most vital and important part. If you get it right here the rest is easier. The Scout Association has realised this. The programme covers all aspects of this age of childhood and how the child can grow in an holistic way looking at all aspects of child development. It is both an indoor and outdoor programme so will benefit the child physically, emotionally and mentally. They will be challenged in a secure and safe environment and most of all have lots of fun doing so.
Squirrels could not have come at a better time, when people are waking up to this revelation. The 4 to 6 programme for Squirrels follows a similar format to Beavers, Cubs and Scouts, with the Squirrels working towards 12 Activity badges like All Around us, Super Chef, Brilliant Builder, Go Wild and nine more. They also need to complete 4 Challenge Awards to achieve the Scout Chief Acorn Award.
16th Wood Green took part in the Hedgehog pilot scheme before Squirrels was launched last year and 9th Muswell Hill followed soon after. In total there are now over 35 Squirrels in Greater London North. More Groups are wanting to follow in the coming year. Both Squirrel Dreys are thriving and some have moved up to Beavers where they fitted in straight away.
By Janine, ADC Squirrels
A Young Leader’s Perspective
My name is Jodie (aka Chip), I am 14 and a Young Leader of the Squirrel Drey at 16th Wood Green in North London one of the first groups in our District, which has made me very proud.
This is my first role as a Young Leader, and it has been amazing. I have gained confidence to lead the Squirrels in games and activities with my partner ‘Dale’ (aka Kirsty) and I am also learning lots of new skills.
The Squirrels always have lots of fun on a Wednesday when we meet. We’ve already taken part in the Remembrance Day Parade where one of the Squirrels put a wreath down which was very heart warming.
I joined Scouting as a Beaver, and I really wish they had Squirrels then! Leaving Scouts was very emotional but being able to help and be a part of Squirrels is amazing.
To see them move up to Beavers is shocking yet exiting to know that I was a part of their experience in the scout movement. I hope they will stay till Scouts and that I will see them grow up until they leave and maybe even want to become a Young Leader like I did.