Programme

Simple tasks, such as getting ready for bed, may take twice as long as you planned with a group of excited young people away from home for the first time. That brilliant activity that you planned might not hold their attention and you might need to swap it for a game to burn off some energy!  

It's really important that there's an element of flexibility within your programme.

For our younger sections, it might be the first time they've stayed away from home, so you're never quite sure how they might react. 

Remember, the concentration span of Squirrels may be shorter. Engaging them in short activities will help to keep them focused.

Smaller groups will make it easier for them to engage with the activities and also allow volunteers to help everyone if a little more support is required. 

Make sure there's free time scheduled throughout your nights away event. If there's an outside space, free time to run around and burn off some energy will help the young people concentrate better in scheduled activities.

But, remember that young people still need to be supervised and given boundaries, check out the guidance for managing free time activities safely.  

Free time also gives them the opportunity to learn through play and from each other. Some young people will need a quiet space where they can relax, they may get quite tired!  

Don’t forget this applies to the volunteers too, so build in some downtime for them too and have enough volunteers in your team to cover those times. 

Meal times may take a bit longer with members of our younger sections. They may need help cutting up food, but it’s a great opportunity to help them learn a new skill!

Please note that some of our youngest members may either dislike some food, eat too quickly or not cut their meal into small enough pieces.

Check out the food safety advice for four and five year olds. Extra helpers at meal times is a great way to ensure that everyone has a good experience and stays safe.  

If you're running a group camp, try and provide opportunities for the sections to mix. Young people will learn new skills from each other.