{"subTitle":"Everything you need to build a quality programme for your Squirrel Drey","backgroundImage":{"url":null,"caption":null,"type":null,"size":0,"width":0,"height":0,"altText":null},"backgroundColour":null,"content":{"layouts":[{"type":"sidebar","areas":[{"items":[{"type":"Promo","cta":"Ensure you have read the readiness checklist before you complete this short form","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIf you\u0027ve decided that you\u0027d like to start a new Squirrels Drey and have completed the \u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://cms.scouts.org.uk/media/18637/are-you-ready-for-squirrels-checklist-v6.pdf\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Ereadiness checklist\u003C/a\u003E, please complete this form to express your interest. This should be done by Group Lead Volunteers and the District Lead Volunteer will then carry out a final review.\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":"Squirrels EOI Form","id":null,"url":"https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=-0KGeT3N9EqWt8YapC6clHZhr9Zdk29OjhGh6bXHUI5UMzJWMjNUUVVVQVpMRTRaV1ZDOTVUQ1dLUSQlQCN0PWcu\u0026route=shorturl","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":"#f1f1f1","title":"Express your interest to open a Squirrels Drey","image":null,"imageFocus":"","imageId":0,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003EThe Squirrels programme\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EFun, inclusive and grounded in teaching skills for life, the Squirrels programme has been specially developed for young people aged four and five years old. The meetings are grounded in teaching skills for life through practical, engaging and creative activities.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESquirrels are managed locally, with a maximum of 24 young people. Most Dreys meet on a weekday evening, with special events like days out scheduled throughout the year. Others might meet less frequently, or on the weekends, depending on local arrangements.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":false,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EEach meeting lasts for around an hour, but this depends on your group. If you finish early, there are a number of \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities?category=Game\u0026amp;section=Early%20years%20pilots\u0026amp;section=Squirrels\u0022 title=\u0022Games (Activity Finder)\u0022 data-anchor=\u0022?category=Game\u0026amp;section=Early%20years%20pilots\u0026amp;section=Squirrels\u0022\u003Eteam games\u003C/a\u003E you could run to get everyone working together and building skills for life. It\u0027s best to start the meeting with an active game to burn off some energy and get everyone ready for the activity. Games are time-dependent, if you think the activity will overrun you may want to start with the activity and have a game ready in case you have extra time.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EEach meeting follows the same routine to support young people to feel confident during the session.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EBegin with an \u003Ca href=\u0022/activities/opening-a-squirrel-meeting/\u0022 title=\u0022Opening a Squirrel meeting\u0022\u003Eopening ceremony\u003C/a\u003E, where young people are welcomed into the group, self sign in and sing a song to start the meeting.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EIntroduce the session with a \u003Ca href=\u0022#\u0022 title=\u0022Reading stories with Squirrels\u0022\u003Estory\u003C/a\u003E. This is an essential part of the Squirrel programme as literacy is incredibly important at this age.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EGet stuck into an\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities?category=Activity\u0026amp;section=Early%20years%20pilots\u0026amp;section=Squirrels\u0022 title=\u0022Squirrels activities (Activity Finder)\u0022 data-anchor=\u0022?category=Activity\u0026amp;section=Early%20years%20pilots\u0026amp;section=Squirrels\u0022\u003Eactivity\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u00A0\u2013 this makes up the bulk of your session and usually\u003C/span\u003E lasts around 20-30 minutes. The activity explores the theme of the session, as introduced by the story.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESay goodbye with a \u003Ca href=\u0022/activities/goodbye-squirrels/\u0022 title=\u0022Goodbye Squirrels\u0022\u003Eclosing ceremony\u003C/a\u003E. This is where everyone comes back together and shares their experience of the meeting in small groups or as a whole. Once the person running the meeting has shared the activity at home and any notices about the next session, the group sings the goodbye song to close the meeting.\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETake it further. \u003C/strong\u003ETo build on the skills that young people have gained from the meeting, each meeting has an activity to do at home which can be found in the \u2018take it further\u2019 section of activity pages.\u00A0These are completely optional but are incredibly beneficial to the young people and a great opportunity to discuss what they have been doing during the meetings with friends and family.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"The meeting structure"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIt\u0027s entirely up to you which meetings you want to run and in what order. Apart from the Kindness puppet show meetings (which are delivered in two parts), all meetings are stand-alone and can be completed in any order to give you as much flexibility as possible.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch4\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThe story\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/h4\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe story in each meeting is a suggestion and can be changed for another story that is more readily available or for one that you feel better sets up the activity. You can find a whole host of books and which libraries have them available at \u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://www.worldcat.org/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022World Cat\u0022\u003EWorldCat\u003C/a\u003E. The story is incredibly important to the meetings and the programme. If you do plan to swap it out for a different story check out the meeting outcomes to make sure the new story fits within these and relates to the meeting activity.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch4\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EThinking about your skills\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/h4\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ERecognise yours and your team\u0027s own experiences and specialities. What can you, your adult and young leaders share to support the programme? You may wish to change/adapt some of the programme activities to reflect the groups\u2019 interest at the time.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch4\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESpecial events\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/h4\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ECelebrating special events throughout the year is important and a great opportunity to shake up the meetings. You may want to adapt the meeting to fit a special event, you could swap out the activity or game to instead design patterns on eggs to celebrate Easter or create paper lanterns to celebrate Diwali or Chinese lunar festival. In the Islamic calendar, Eid festival is celebrated by Muslims so you may wish to design Eid cards.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWhatever the festival or event that is taking place it is always good to reflect and mark these important occasions. All themes fit into any activity you may wish to adapt to. Even better, include the young peoples\u0027 thoughts and opinions when planning your programme. You will be surprised with what they have to offer.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"A flexible programme"}]},{"value":"https://player.vimeo.com/video/695866806?h=5d658c6559\u0026amp;app_id=122963","gridType":"embed","gtmId":"gtmId","gtmClass":"gtmClass"},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ETips for getting young people involved\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDuring meetings, Squirrel Leaders are encouraged to enthusiastically support young people to participate in activities. Make sure your meetings run smoothly with these top tips.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":false,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EThe more you know about the young people, their likes, dislikes and what they feel confident getting involved in, the easier it is to tailor the meeting so that all the young people can be involved.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Getting to know the young people in your section"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EYoung people aged four and five find it easier to pay attention and get involved in activities when they are in smaller groups. Smaller groups also encourage conversation among even the quietest young people.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Focus on small groups during the meeting"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EYoung people at this age struggle to follow long and complex instructions. Make sure you break down the instructions for what you are doing. Share the instructions where you plan to hold the activity and if you\u2019re going outside, wait until you\u2019re outside to explain the next stage. Otherwise, by the time you\u2019ve moved to a new space, everyone will have forgotten the instructions.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Use short sentences and give clear instructions"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWhen running an activity, show the young people how to complete the task step-by-step. If you can, work in small groups and support everyone to follow the instructions as you make or do the activity.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ELearn more about\u003Cspan\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/inclusion-and-diversity/supporting-those-with-additional-needs-and-neurodiversity/communication-and-interaction/visual-supports/visual-stories/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Evisual aids and visual stories\u003C/a\u003E\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Use visual aids"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EYoung Leaders are particularly well suited to explaining instructions and supporting children of this age. Make sure the Young Leader understands the task before starting and support them to deliver the task to a small group. This will help\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/how-to-start-a-squirrel-drey/empowering-young-leaders/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Empowering Young Leaders\u0022\u003EYoung Leaders\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u00A0be the best that they can be.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Use your Young Leaders"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EPositive feedback\u2019s incredibly important at this age. Celebrate mini goals throughout the meeting \u2013 a \u2018Great colouring!\u2019 or a \u2018Well done for finding that\u2019 will make a huge difference to a young person. Make sure that everyone gets praise when they do something well, and that it\u2019s shared with the others.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Celebrate successes regularly"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EEach story, game and activity has the opportunity for reflection. Make the most of these by regularly discussing what the young people have been achieving and relate it back to the meeting.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Reflect regularly during the meeting"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003ETake a break halfway through the meeting. This is a great time to provide the young people with a drink. Encourage them to either bring their own bottles filled up or provide them with a drink out of your own cups.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Take breaks"}]},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003EQuality Programme Checker\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe\u003Cspan\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://cms.scouts.org.uk/media/16587/squirrels-quality-programme-checker.pdf\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Squirrels Quality Programme Checker\u0022\u003EQuality Programme Checker\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003Eis a tool designed to help you to plan and review your programmes, and make sure that you\u0027re delivering quality Scouting to the young people that you work with.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThis tool can be used by the Squirrel Leaders as an opportunity to reflect on the programme from the term or year. It uses a Red Amber Green (RAG) system in order to help identify successes, as well as any areas where the programme can be improved\u003Cspan\u003E when planning your next programme. These\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E categories have been calculated based on requirements for the older sections and\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u00A0may be adapted due to research on this section.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EYou could share your results with others in your Group or District, and discuss best practice and tips for\u00A0improving the quality of your own and others programmes.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ETo help check that you\u2019re providing the best Scouts experience possible to your young people, there\u2019s also a\u003Cspan\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/learning-development-and-awards/training/learners/modules/training-for-all-appointments/12-a-delivering-a-quality-programme/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003Etraining module on delivering a quality programme\u003C/a\u003E.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":false,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMore opportunities for outdoor and adventurous activities in safe environments\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EGaining confidence by participating in new or less familiar activities and stretching their comfort zones\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EAll young people regardless of their abilities, can enjoy and achieve\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","label":"What we mean by challenging"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EYoung people shape the programme based on what they want to learn and explore\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EEnsuring the needs of every young person are met\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cbr /\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EResponding to what young people are currently inquisitive about and reflecting this in the programme\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","label":"What we mean by relevant"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EDeveloping skills for life, including teamwork and leadership\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ESupporting young people with their progression through the sections\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EYoung people are excited about Scouting, having fun and increasing in confidence\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","label":"What we mean by rewarding"}]},{"gridType":"callToAction","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","buttonText":"Download and print the Programme Quality Checker to help identify successes and areas that can be improved","buttonLink":{"name":"Download and print the Programme Quality Checker to help identify successes and areas that can be improved.","id":null,"url":"https://prod-cms.scouts.org.uk/media/16587/squirrels-quality-programme-checker.pdf","newWindow":false,"target":"_blank"},"colour":{"value":"ca1a10","label":"ca1a10"},"alignment":"central"}]},{"items":[{"gridType":"gridImageBlock","gtmId":"gtmId","gtmClass":"gtmClass","image":"/media/16589/squirrels-primary-logo-red-jpg-rgb.jpg","width":893,"height":352,"altText":"","caption":"","link":null},{"type":"Image top","cta":"Try the programme planning tool","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EFor a quick and easy way to plan your Squirrels programme, use the programme planning tool.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":"Programme planner","id":null,"url":"/programme-planner/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":null,"title":"Programme planning tool","image":"/media/19211/squirrels-and-volunteers-holding-leaves.jpg?cc=0,0.06333333333333334,0,0.09291666666666666\u0026width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1dadf67f5f9df30","imageFocus":"Center","imageId":34817,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"Center","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"type":"Image top","cta":"Jump into your first term of Squirrels","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003ETo get you started with your Squirrels meetings, we\u2019ve put together a ready-made programme that you can run for 13 weeks (a full term).\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":"Squirrels starter programme","id":null,"url":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/squirrels-ready-made-programmes/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":null,"title":"Squirrels starter programme","image":"/media/14021/210510_squirrels_0659.jpg?width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1db7c796e6f3330","imageFocus":"Center","imageId":27050,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"Center","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"type":"Image top","cta":"Get ahead planning your programme","body":"\u003Cp\u003ELooking for some inspiration to plan your Squirrels programme? Find Squirrels activity ideas for occasions and events throughout the year.\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":"Occasions and events","id":null,"url":"/volunteers/running-your-section/planning-your-programme/programme-planning-ideas-calendars/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":null,"title":"Occasions and events calendar","image":"/media/19212/squirrels-at-party.jpg?cc=0.0000000000000001263187085796,0.09297947819691638,0,0.06333078535568694\u0026width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1dadf67f60577f0","imageFocus":"Center","imageId":34818,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"Center","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"type":"Image top","cta":"Find stories for your Squirrels programme","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022TextRun SCXW114396933 BCX0\u0022 data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022NormalTextRun SCXW114396933 BCX0\u0022\u003EStorytelling\u2019s an important part of Squirrels and is a highlight of the young person\u2019s experience. So get some tips from Scouts and \u003C/span\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022TextRun SCXW114396933 BCX0\u0022 data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan class=\u0022NormalTextRun SCXW114396933 BCX0\u0022\u003E\u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://www.booktrust.org.uk/news-and-features/features/2017/january/hints-and-tips-for-storytellers/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022BookTrust top tips for storytelling\u0022\u003EBookTrust\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E on how \u003C/span\u003Eto help everyone feel comfortable with storytelling.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":"Reading stories with Squirrels","id":null,"url":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/reading-stories-with-squirrels/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":"#f1f1f1","title":"Reading stories with Squirrels","image":"/media/14645/dsc_5455_mmp.jpg?cc=0.12831241283124148,0.04934199733376541,0,0.21597017471862465\u0026width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1dadf67f89c4f70","imageFocus":"Center","imageId":28053,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"Center","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""}]}],"config":null}]},"sections":[{"content":{"layouts":[{"type":"sidebar","areas":[{"items":[{"type":"Promo","cta":"Ensure you have read the readiness checklist before you complete this short form","body":"\u003Cp\u003EIf you\u0027ve decided that you\u0027d like to start a new Squirrels Drey and have completed the \u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://prod-cms.scouts.org.uk/media/18637/are-you-ready-for-squirrels-checklist-v6.pdf\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Squirrels readiness checklist\u0022\u003Ereadiness checklist\u003C/a\u003E, please complete this form to express your interest. This should be done by the Group Lead Volunteer(s) and the District Lead Volunteer will then carry out a final review.\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":null,"id":null,"url":"https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/a34de2c88cbd4d609bfb1fcf2b31aed5","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":"#f1f1f1","title":"Express your interest to open a Squirrels Drey","image":null,"imageFocus":"","imageId":0,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"value":"https://player.vimeo.com/video/695866510?h=4209688979\u0026amp;app_id=122963","gridType":"embed","gtmId":"gtmId","gtmClass":"gtmClass"},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003EWe recommend planning at least a half term\u2019s worth of meetings in advance. By planning in advance, you can:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E1.\u003C/strong\u003E \u003Cstrong\u003EMake\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E \u003C/span\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Esure meetings fit together well\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EYou might want to build a particular skill in your group, focus on a particular outcome or find meetings that fit with your young people\u2019s interests at the time. This is a great opportunity to focus on \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/running-your-section/youth-shaped/\u0022 title=\u0022Youth shaped\u0022\u003EYouth Shaped Scouting\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E2.\u003C/strong\u003E \u003Cstrong\u003EMake sure you have the necessary resources\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESome meetings use the same resources so you might want to put them together if you\u2019re low on pace. Think about what resources you\u2019ll need for the term (there\u2019s a list with each activity and game) and make sure you have them ready for your meetings in advance.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003E3.\u003C/strong\u003E \u003Cstrong\u003ESelect meetings that are supported by the weather\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWe can\u2019t predict the weather, but there are general themes \u2013 warm(ish!) in the summer and cold in the winter. You may want to think about when you\u2019d like to run meetings outdoors and what equipment the young people might need to bring, depending on the season.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003EOrganise your programme\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EPlan your programme using the \u003Ca href=\u0022/programme-planner/\u0022 title=\u0022Programme planner\u0022\u003Eprogramme planning tool\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/por/\u0022 title=\u0022POR Rule Book\u0022\u003ECheck Policy, Organisation and Rules (POR)\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/programme-guidance/?cat=26,407,351\u0022 data-anchor=\u0022?cat=26,407,351\u0022\u003ECheck programme guidance\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ECheck whether further \u003Ca href=\u0022/por/8-insurance/\u0022 title=\u00228. Insurance\u0022\u003Einsurance\u2019\u003C/a\u003Es required\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003ECheck whether Scouts Headquarters\u00A0needs \u003Ca href=\u0022/por/9-activities/rule-91-all-activities/\u0022 title=\u0022Rule 9.1 Activity Rules \u2013 Application\u0022\u003Enotifying\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMake sure an \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/intouch/\u0022\u003EInTouch \u003C/a\u003Eprocess is in place\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003EMake sure all activities are approved in accordance with \u003Ca href=\u0022/por/\u0022 title=\u0022POR Rule Book\u0022\u003EPOR\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""}]},{"items":[{"type":"Image top","cta":"Try the programme planning tool","body":"\u003Cp\u003EFor a quick and easy way to plan your Squirrels programme, use the programme planning tool.\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":"Programme planner","id":null,"url":"/programme-planner/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":null,"title":"Programme Planning Tool","image":"/media/19162/squirrels-lighting-fire.jpg?cc=0.0000000000000001263187085796,0.08666047663262148,0,0.06964978691998182\u0026width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1dadf67f4eb2e50","imageFocus":"Center","imageId":34751,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"Center","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"type":"Image top","cta":"Discover the programme","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EWe\u0027ve put together a Squirrels starter programme which is a ready-made 13-week programme to get Squirrel Dreys up and running to enable both the leaders and young people to experience Scouting for 4 and 5 year olds.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EThis programme can last a full term and enables Squirrels to start their skills for life journey early and earn several badges by the end of the first term\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":"Squirrels starter programme","id":null,"url":"/programme-planner/squirrels-starter-programme/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":null,"title":"Squirrels starter programme","image":"/media/14459/squirrels-19-jpg.jpg?cc=0,0.10322113644589215,0,0.053944987332609516\u0026width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1dadf67f356d2b0","imageFocus":"","imageId":27808,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"type":"Image top","cta":"Get ahead planning your programme","body":"\u003Cp\u003ELooking for some inspiration to plan your Squirrels programme? 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But that\u2019s the boring bit.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EEach badge is packed with wow and wonder, perfect for anyone who\u2019s ever asked \u2018Why?\u2019 (or \u2018Why not?\u2019). You\u2019ll tell stories and play games. Get active and explore the outdoors. Become a brilliant builder and a super chef. There\u2019s something for everyone \u2013 and that means that there\u2019s something for you.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EAnd like all other sections, Squirrels will be able to work towards all Staged Activity Badges.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EStaged Activity Badges cover a range of topics and skills and they don\u2019t have to be completed in order \u2013 it is possible for young people to begin the stages at whichever level best suits them. The stages are progressively difficult to offer young people an ongoing challenge.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EThere are also a variety of Occasional and Fun Badges available for Squirrels.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp aria-level=\u00224\u0022\u003EOccasional Badges\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\u0022{\u0026quot;201341983\u0026quot;:0,\u0026quot;335559738\u0026quot;:40,\u0026quot;335559739\u0026quot;:0,\u0026quot;335559740\u0026quot;:259}\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022none\u0022\u003Ecelebrate a special occasion, camp, event or anniversary. They can be created nationally or locally, and can be worn on uniform for a period of time.\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp aria-level=\u00224\u0022\u003EFun Badges\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022none\u0022\u003E\u00A0are non-uniform badges, and are often worn on camp blankets.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","link":null,"colour":"#f1f1f1","title":"We\u2019re really excited to share the Squirrels Badges with you.","image":null,"imageFocus":"","imageId":0,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"callToAction","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","buttonText":"Shop the Scout store for Squirrels badges","buttonLink":{"name":"https://shop.scouts.org.uk/uniforms/squirrels","id":null,"url":"https://shop.scouts.org.uk/uniforms/squirrels","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":{"value":"ca1a10","label":"ca1a10"},"alignment":"left"}]}],"config":null},{"type":"threeColumn","areas":[{"items":[{"type":"Image top","cta":"Discover the Squirrels activity badges!","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWe have created 12 brand-new activity badges for the Squirrels programme.\u00A0 Each focusing on a different are of discovery, play and trying something new. Whether that is trying out an experiment or celebrating something.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":"Discover the Squirrels activity badges!","id":null,"url":"/squirrels/activity-badges/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":"#ca1a10","title":"Activity badges for Squirrels","image":"/media/14806/u_ytrtca.jpeg?width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1daab8e35b4d480","imageFocus":"Center","imageId":28236,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"Center","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""}]},{"items":[{"type":"Image top","cta":"Explore the Squirrels awards!","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWe have created 4 brand-new challenge badges for the Squirrels programme and a brand new top award of the acorn badge. Squirrels discover more about themselves, their fellow Squirrels, the world and about adventure.\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":"Explore the Squirrels awards!","id":null,"url":"/squirrels/awards/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":"#ca1a10","title":"Awards for Squirrels","image":"/media/14816/all-together.png?width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1daab8e35dafa20","imageFocus":"Center","imageId":28247,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"Center","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""}]},{"items":[{"type":"Image top","cta":"Check out Staged badges for Squirrels!","body":"\u003Cp\u003EJust like all other sections from Beavers to Explorers. Squirrels can start their journey of developing skills for life by starting on the staged badges offered to everyone.\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":"Find out more about staged badges for Squirrels","id":null,"url":"/squirrels/activity-badges/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":"#ca1a10","title":"Staged badges for Squirrels","image":"/media/19202/smiling-squirrel.jpg?cc=0.0000000000000001263187085796,0,0,0.15631026355260347\u0026width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1dadf67f5b423a0","imageFocus":"Center","imageId":34808,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"Center","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""}]}],"config":null},{"type":"threeColumn","areas":[{"items":[{"type":"Image top","cta":"Find out more about the Disney badge","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EWe\u0027ve partnered with Disney to create a range of fun badges and activities for Squirrels, teaching our young people the values of confidence, kindness and courage.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","link":null,"colour":"#ffffff","title":"Disney","image":"/media/18799/logo-round-01.png?width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1daac3522bce5a0","imageFocus":"","imageId":34126,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""}]},{"items":[{"type":"Image top","cta":"Activities for Squirrels Appreciation Day","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EOn the 21 January each year is Squirrels Appreciation Day. We\u0027ve created a fun badge available on the Scout store and a range of fun activities for Squirrels to celebrate the furry friends who share our name.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":"Squirrels Appreciation Day activities","id":null,"url":"https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities?name=squirrelday","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":"#ffffff","title":"Squirrels Appreciation Day","image":"/media/19404/squirrels-appreciation-day.jpg?width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1daf92f25e82180","imageFocus":"","imageId":35068,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""}]},{"items":[]}],"config":null}]},"prev":{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/planning-ahead-and-organising-the-programme/","title":"Planning ahead and organising the programme"},"next":{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/squirrels-ready-made-programmes/","title":"Squirrels ready-made programmes"},"allParts":[{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/planning-ahead-and-organising-the-programme/","title":"Planning ahead and organising the programme"},{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/badges-for-squirrels/","title":"Badges for Squirrels"},{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/squirrels-ready-made-programmes/","title":"Squirrels ready-made programmes"},{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/reading-stories-with-squirrels/","title":"Reading stories with Squirrels"},{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/community-impact-in-squirrels/","title":"Community Impact in Squirrels"},{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/helping-squirrels-take-the-lead/","title":"Helping Squirrels take the lead"}],"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/badges-for-squirrels/","id":75915,"nodeName":"Badges for Squirrels","title":"Badges for Squirrels","type":"codexPart","image":{"url":"/media/16589/squirrels-primary-logo-red-jpg-rgb.jpg?width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1dab8e19db10f30","caption":"Squirrels Primary Logo Red Jpg Rgb","type":"jpg","size":86125,"width":893,"height":352,"altText":""},"assets":null,"headerOptions":{"headerTitle":"Badges for Squirrels","headerSubTitle":null,"headerCta":null,"headerCtaText":null,"headerCtaLink":null,"headerBackgroundColour":null,"showSEOImage":false,"headerBackgroundImage":null,"quickLinks":null},"searchDescription":"Discover the occasional and fun badges available for Squirrels.","subHeader":"Discover the occasional and fun badges available for Squirrels.","browserTitle":null,"silktide":"eyJjbXMiOiJVbWJyYWNvIiwiZWRpdG9yVXJsIjoiaHR0cHM6Ly9wcm9kLWNtcy5zY291dHMub3JnLnVrLy91bWJyYWNvIy9jb250ZW50L2NvbnRlbnQvZWRpdC83NTkxNSJ9","canonicalUrl":"https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/badges-for-squirrels/"},{"content":{"layouts":[{"type":"sidebar","areas":[{"items":[{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003ETo get you started with your Squirrels meetings and programme, we\u2019ve put together several ready-made programmes that you can run. You can complete sessions from these programmes in order or move them around to work for your Drey, the resources you have, and (most importantly) the weather.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThese programmes are all available to download from the\u0026nbsp;\u003Ca href=\u0022/programme-planner/\u0022 title=\u0022Programme planner\u0022\u003EProgramme Planner tool.\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003EThe Squirrels starter programme\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\u0022/programme-planner/squirrels-starter-programme/\u0022 title=\u0022Squirrels starter programme\u0022\u003ESquirrels Starter Programme\u003C/a\u003E sets out 13 weeks worth of sessions (a full term). Each session includes a suggested opening and closing ceremony, a game, and an activity to get everyone involved. Each activity includes a story, so you\u2019ll have all the tools you need to run a successful programme right from the start.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003EChief Scout\u0027s Acorn Award programme\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Ca href=\u0022/programme-planner/chief-scouts-acorn-award/\u0022 title=\u0022Chief Scout\u0027s Acorn Award\u0022\u003EChief Scouts\u0027s Acorn Award programme\u003C/a\u003E is a 2 year complete programme. It uses activities from the activity finder enabling Squirrels to complete all the Squirrel badges available as well as taking part in some Staged badges. Ultimately, earning and achieving their top award - the \u003Ca href=\u0022/top-awards/chief-scout-s-acorn-award/\u0022 title=\u0022Chief Scout\u2019s Acorn Award\u0022\u003EChief Scout\u0027s Acorn Award\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003ESpecific Squirrels badges programmes\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EProgramme plans for some Squirrels badges have been created to help you run these badge focussed sessions and enable your Squirrels to achieve a specific badge. Currently available are:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/programme-planner/squirrels-space-explorers/\u0022 title=\u0022Squirrels Space Explorers\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESquirrels Space Explorers\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E: Take your Squirrels on an exciting journey through space, from learning about the Earth and the moon and making space helmets. Each activity is filled with adventure and discovery enabling Squirrels to achieve the \u003Ca href=\u0022/squirrels/activity-badges/space-explorer/\u0022 title=\u0022Space Explorer\u0022\u003ESpace Explorer badge.\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/programme-planner/squirrels-science-week/\u0022 title=\u0022Squirrels Science Week\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ESquirrels Science Week\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/a\u003E: Celebrate British Science Week, taking place the 7-16 March and join forces with Rolls Royce and The UK Space Agency. Pick one theme for the week or spend a couple weeks focusing on all things science enabling Squirrels to achieve the \u003Ca href=\u0022/squirrels/activity-badges/exciting-experiments/\u0022 title=\u0022Exciting Experiments\u0022\u003EExciting Experiments badge.\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003EProgramme Planning Ideas Calendar\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ELooking for some inspiration to plan your Squirrels programme? We have put together and regularly update the \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/running-your-section/planning-your-programme/programme-planning-ideas-calendars/\u0022 title=\u0022Programme planning ideas calendars\u0022\u003EProgramme planning Ideas calendar \u003C/a\u003Eso you can find Squirrels activity ideas for occasions and events throughout the year. You can also find the previous years calendars here as well if you are looking to plan ahead.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""}]},{"items":[{"type":"Image top","cta":"Find out more about the Squirrels badges","body":"\u003Cp\u003EWanting to find out about the Squirrels badges? Check out all the badges available to Squirrels including activity badges, challenge awards and occasional fun badges.\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":"Badges for Squirrels","id":null,"url":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/badges-for-squirrels/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":"#ed3f23","title":"Badges for Squirrels","image":"/media/19244/squirrel-with-squirrels-badge.jpg?cc=0.0000000000000001263187085796,0.029997857295907437,0,0.12631240625669587\u0026width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1dadf67f676fe70","imageFocus":"","imageId":34852,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"value":"https://player.vimeo.com/video/520025356?h=98e1d06222\u0026amp;app_id=122963","gridType":"embed","gtmId":"gtmId","gtmClass":"gtmClass"},{"gridType":"callToAction","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","buttonText":"Use the activity finder","buttonLink":{"name":"https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities?section=Early%20years%20pilots\u0026section=Squirrels","id":null,"url":"https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities?section=Early%20years%20pilots\u0026section=Squirrels","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":{"value":"ca1a10","label":"ca1a10"},"alignment":"left"},{"value":"https://player.vimeo.com/video/520026323?h=90c25dd6ee\u0026amp;app_id=122963","gridType":"embed","gtmId":"gtmId","gtmClass":"gtmClass"},{"gridType":"callToAction","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","buttonText":"Use the Programme Planning Tool","buttonLink":{"name":"Programme planner","id":null,"url":"/programme-planner/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":{"value":"ca1a10","label":"ca1a10"},"alignment":"left"}]}],"config":null}]},"prev":{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/badges-for-squirrels/","title":"Badges for Squirrels"},"next":{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/reading-stories-with-squirrels/","title":"Reading stories with Squirrels"},"allParts":[{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/planning-ahead-and-organising-the-programme/","title":"Planning ahead and organising the programme"},{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/badges-for-squirrels/","title":"Badges for Squirrels"},{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/squirrels-ready-made-programmes/","title":"Squirrels ready-made programmes"},{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/reading-stories-with-squirrels/","title":"Reading stories with Squirrels"},{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/community-impact-in-squirrels/","title":"Community Impact in Squirrels"},{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/helping-squirrels-take-the-lead/","title":"Helping Squirrels take the lead"}],"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/squirrels-ready-made-programmes/","id":50240,"nodeName":"Squirrels ready-made programmes","title":"Squirrels ready-made programmes","type":"codexPart","image":null,"assets":null,"headerOptions":{"headerTitle":"Squirrels ready-made programmes","headerSubTitle":null,"headerCta":null,"headerCtaText":null,"headerCtaLink":null,"headerBackgroundColour":null,"showSEOImage":false,"headerBackgroundImage":null,"quickLinks":null},"searchDescription":"Find out how you can get your Squirrels Drey off to a great start with these exciting ready-made programmes.","subHeader":"Find out how you can get your Squirrels Drey off to a great start with these exciting ready-made programmes.","browserTitle":null,"silktide":"eyJjbXMiOiJVbWJyYWNvIiwiZWRpdG9yVXJsIjoiaHR0cHM6Ly9wcm9kLWNtcy5zY291dHMub3JnLnVrLy91bWJyYWNvIy9jb250ZW50L2NvbnRlbnQvZWRpdC81MDI0MCJ9","canonicalUrl":"https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/squirrels-ready-made-programmes/"},{"content":{"layouts":[{"type":"sidebar","areas":[{"items":[{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EThe story is an essential part of the Squirrel programme. Literacy is incredibly important at this age and the story sets up the theme for the meeting.\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThe story in each meeting is a suggestion and can be changed for another story that is more readily available or for one that you feel better sets up the activity. We\u0027ve got a collection of suggested stories to use for different Squirrels Activity Badges and Awards if you need a hand getting started.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EFind out more information about using stories as part of your activities on\u00A0\u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/running-the-squirrels-programme/\u0022 title=\u0022Running the Squirrels programme\u0022\u003Eour page all about the Squirrels programme\u003C/a\u003E.\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"type":"Plain","cta":"Explore more","body":"\u003Cp\u003EDiscover creative ways to take young people into the world of stories\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":"Setting the scene","id":null,"url":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/reading-stories-with-squirrels/setting-the-scene/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":"#ca1a10","title":"Setting the scene","image":null,"imageFocus":"","imageId":0,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"type":"Plain","cta":"Explore more","body":"\u003Cp\u003EFind out how to get Squirrels involved in the presentation of a story\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":"Presentation of a story","id":null,"url":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/reading-stories-with-squirrels/presentation-of-a-story/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":"#ca1a10","title":"Presentation of a story","image":null,"imageFocus":"","imageId":0,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"type":"Plain","cta":"Explore more","body":"\u003Cp\u003ELearn how you can get your Squirrels moving by taking them on a story trail\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":"Story trails","id":null,"url":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/reading-stories-with-squirrels/story-trails/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":"#ca1a10","title":"Story trails","image":null,"imageFocus":"","imageId":0,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003EThe secrets of sensational storytelling\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EStorytelling is an important part of every meeting, and will be a highlight of the young person\u2019s experience. However, we realise that not everyone feels confident or comfortable when it comes to storytelling.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EWe\u2019ve created some top tips to help everyone feel comfortable with storytelling.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":false,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003EPreparation is the key to a successful story session, particularly if you\u2019re feeling a little out of your comfort zone. Control the things you can control and the job\u2019s half done:\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\u0022{\u0026quot;335551550\u0026quot;:6,\u0026quot;335551620\u0026quot;:6}\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003EThink about the location. Be aware of distractions such as books or toys within easy reach. It can be a good idea to designate a special \u2018story\u2019 rug or mat for the group to sit on or sit in a circle.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003ELook for places in the story where you can use voices or noises and dramatic pauses. Feel free to use gestures and actions to enhance the story. Vary your vocal style, too - if the story calls for a silly voice, do a silly voice; if it needs you to act frightened, act frightened.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\u0022{\u0026quot;335551550\u0026quot;:6,\u0026quot;335551620\u0026quot;:6}\u0022\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003EPractise reading your chosen stories out loud.\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\u0022{\u0026quot;335551550\u0026quot;:6,\u0026quot;335551620\u0026quot;:6}\u0022\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003EMake the story interactive. Where can the young people get involved, can they make a funny or scary voice, can they think of different types of trees or the noise an instrument might make. Look for opportunities to engage the young people in the story and share the experience with them.\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\u0022{\u0026quot;335551550\u0026quot;:6,\u0026quot;335551620\u0026quot;:6}\u0022\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003EHave one adult reading the story at a time. This can be a different person at each meeting but should be the same person for the whole story. More than one person reading the story will make it difficult to follow. All other adults and young leaders can support the young people to interact with the story and quieten them down when the reader needs to move on.\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\u0022{\u0026quot;335551550\u0026quot;:6,\u0026quot;335551620\u0026quot;:6}\u0022\u003E\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003EAsk questions after the story, what happened? What did they enjoy about the story? How would they feel if they were the main character? Sharing these experiences will embed their understanding and support their ability to critically analyse similar situations in the future.\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\u0022{\u0026quot;335551550\u0026quot;:6,\u0026quot;335551620\u0026quot;:6}\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","label":"Telling great stories is all in the preparation"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003EHowever nervous you\u2019re feeling inside, try to look happy and confident. You\u2019ve got a story to share and it\u2019s going to be great! Many young people love stories and being read to\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003Eis\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003E\u00A0a great experience so enjoy it and they will too.\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\u0022{\u0026quot;335551550\u0026quot;:6,\u0026quot;335551620\u0026quot;:6}\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003ERead clearly and slowly. If you\u2019re nervous you\u2019ll tend to speed up, often without realising.\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\u0022{\u0026quot;335551550\u0026quot;:6,\u0026quot;335551620\u0026quot;:6}\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003EMake eye contact. Putting your head down and just ploughing through it will kill the story and the experience for the audience.\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\u0022{\u0026quot;335551550\u0026quot;:6,\u0026quot;335551620\u0026quot;:6}\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003EUse the recurring words and catchphrases in the stories to get the young people involved. There are three things young people love most when having a story read to them: repetition, repetition and repetition.\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\u0022{\u0026quot;335551550\u0026quot;:6,\u0026quot;335551620\u0026quot;:6}\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003EEncourage the young people to respond to the words and pictures and don\u2019t be afraid to go off script\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003E.\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003EFor example,\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u2018Who\u2019s afraid of sharks?\u2019 \u2018And what do you think happened next?\u2019 Get them to roar like a lion or hiss like a snake. A story\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003Emeeting\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003E\u00A0is interactive, so interact.\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003E\u00A0If\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003Ethe group gets overexcited, simply put the book aside until they quieten down.\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\u0022{\u0026quot;335551550\u0026quot;:6,\u0026quot;335551620\u0026quot;:6}\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003EIf you\u2019re nervous\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003E\u00A0about reading in front of other adults\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003E, don\u2019t be! They ar\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003Ee there to help make the meeting\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003E\u00A0a success, so make sure you create opportunities for them to get involved in the storytelling too. Getting them to sit with the young people during the story is\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003E\u00A0a\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003E\u00A0good way to get them involved.\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\u0022{\u0026quot;335551550\u0026quot;:6,\u0026quot;335551620\u0026quot;:6}\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","label":"Make stories interactive"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003ETake time to review the meeting\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003E\u00A0and think about what worked and what didn\u2019t. If things went well, brilliant. Whatever you did, keep on doing it.\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\u0022{\u0026quot;335551550\u0026quot;:6,\u0026quot;335551620\u0026quot;:6}\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003EIf things didn\u2019t go so well try to work out why. Learn from it, put it behind you,\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003Eand move\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003E\u00A0on.\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\u0022{\u0026quot;335551550\u0026quot;:6,\u0026quot;335551620\u0026quot;:6}\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cspan data-contrast=\u0022auto\u0022\u003EBut always remember, when it comes to reading a story, play to your strengths. No two readers are alike. Some are natural performers, others are better at just being themselves. There is no \u2018right\u2019 way to read a story. Just your own way.\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cspan data-ccp-props=\u0022{\u0026quot;335551550\u0026quot;:6,\u0026quot;335551620\u0026quot;:6}\u0022\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003ERemember: if you have fun telling stories, your group will enjoy hearing them. 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be encouraged and empowered to take a role in social action.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":false,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003ECommunity Impact refers to activities that young people do to make a positive difference to others, their community or the environment.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EActivities include fundraising, sharing causes in the community (such as making cards for a care home) or running campaigns in their local area (such as putting up posters about how to look after the environment).\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EDoing Community Impact in Squirrels can be that easy through the range of fun activities available on the \u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/activities/?section=Early%20years%20pilots\u0022 data-anchor=\u0022?section=Early%20years%20pilots\u0022\u003Eactivity finder\u003C/a\u003E. Check out the range of Squirrels activities achieving \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/youth-social-action-in-squirrels/mapping-youth-social-action-across-the-squirrels-badges/\u0022 title=\u0022Mapping Community Impact across the Squirrels badges\u0022\u003ECommunity Impact that we have mapped across all parts of the Squirrels badge programme.\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EThere should be discussion with young people to decide what Community Impact activity they\u0027d like to take part in and why it\u0027s important to them and the world around them.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"About Community Impact "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EAs Scouts, we\u2019re always striving to leave the world a little better than we found it.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EOver the last one hundred years, the issues we\u2019ve tackled have evolved and changed, but our young people\u2019s drive to make a positive impact remains constant.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EWe want to\u0026nbsp;\u003C/span\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003Eempower more young people\u003C/strong\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E to take a stand. Young people feel empowered when they are included in decisions about them and their communities and sharing what matters to them. It\u0027s important to start youth-shaped Scouting and Community Impact right from the start, with the Squirrels.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","label":"The benefits of Community Impact "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EYoung Leaders play an integral role in Scouting and recent research has shown the benefits of young leaders in the Squirrels.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ESocial Action is a great opportunity to get young leaders involved. Encourage them to run a meeting discussing different types of action the group could take, ask them to help the young people in the group decide which action they want to take part in and what they\u0027d like to do.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003EYoung leaders are creative, encouraging and skilled at talking to this younger age group. Encourage them to take the lead on a social action activity to benefit the young people and their community.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Young Leaders"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003EExplore the\u003Cspan\u003E \u003C/span\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/about-us/help-others/\u0022 title=\u0022Help others\u0022\u003Ehelp others\u003C/a\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003Esection of the website to keep up to date on the social action campaigns that groups have been getting involved in all over the UK.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003ECheck out the\u003Cspan\u003E\u00A0\u003C/span\u003E\u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://www.scouts.org.uk/about-us/help-others/community/\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022A Million Hands\u0022\u003EMillion Hands\u003C/a\u003E campaign to access resources and activity ideas from our partners, who are working to encourage young people to make a positive contribution to the world around them.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"National Community Impact "}]}]},{"items":[{"type":"Promo","cta":"Fill out the Community Impact form","body":"\u003Cp\u003ENo social action activity is too small and getting young people thinking about the world around them and their role in it is integral to Scouting. Share your experiences to encourage social action in Squirrels.\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":"Community Impact form","id":null,"url":"https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/c421ea9f1fb7428b85f06306482c85a6","newWindow":false,"target":"_blank"},"colour":"#ca1a10","title":"Share your experience","image":null,"imageFocus":"","imageId":0,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"type":"Image top","cta":"Check out these amazing stories","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cspan\u003ETake a look at the stories we have gathered that can be used when exploring Community Impact and Furthering reach with Squirrels.\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","link":{"name":"Stories about your Community","id":null,"url":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/reading-stories-with-squirrels/stories-about-your-community/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":"#ca1a10","title":"Stories for Community Impact ","image":"/media/14653/dsc_5472_mmp.jpg?cc=0,0.023307998552298224,0,0.13385812522620344\u0026width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1dadf67f8a7e830","imageFocus":"","imageId":28061,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""}]}],"config":null}]},"prev":{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/reading-stories-with-squirrels/","title":"Reading stories with Squirrels"},"next":{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/helping-squirrels-take-the-lead/","title":"Helping Squirrels take the lead"},"allParts":[{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/planning-ahead-and-organising-the-programme/","title":"Planning ahead and organising the programme"},{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/badges-for-squirrels/","title":"Badges for Squirrels"},{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/squirrels-ready-made-programmes/","title":"Squirrels ready-made programmes"},{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/reading-stories-with-squirrels/","title":"Reading stories with Squirrels"},{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/community-impact-in-squirrels/","title":"Community Impact in Squirrels"},{"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/helping-squirrels-take-the-lead/","title":"Helping Squirrels take the lead"}],"link":"/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/community-impact-in-squirrels/","id":50701,"nodeName":"Community Impact in Squirrels","title":"Community Impact in Squirrels","type":"codexPart","image":{"url":"/media/14673/dsc_5509_mmp.jpg?width=800\u0026height=450\u0026v=1dadf67f8d4c490","caption":"Squirrel puts soil into pot with plant","type":"jpg","size":1567004,"width":7360,"height":4912,"altText":"A Squirrel in a red jumper and blue necker puts soil into a pot with a plant"},"assets":null,"headerOptions":{"headerTitle":"Community Impact in Squirrels","headerSubTitle":null,"headerCta":null,"headerCtaText":null,"headerCtaLink":null,"headerBackgroundColour":null,"showSEOImage":false,"headerBackgroundImage":null,"quickLinks":null},"searchDescription":"Find out how you can empower young people to make a positive difference to the world around them.","subHeader":"Find out how you can empower young people to make a positive difference to the world around them.","browserTitle":null,"silktide":"eyJjbXMiOiJVbWJyYWNvIiwiZWRpdG9yVXJsIjoiaHR0cHM6Ly9wcm9kLWNtcy5zY291dHMub3JnLnVrLy91bWJyYWNvIy9jb250ZW50L2NvbnRlbnQvZWRpdC81MDcwMSJ9","canonicalUrl":"https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/running-a-squirrel-drey/programme-planning/community-impact-in-squirrels/"},{"content":{"layouts":[{"type":"sidebar","areas":[{"items":[{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003EWe believe in empowering young people to take the lead and make their own choices wherever possible, which is why we try to make sure all Squirrel\u0027s meetings are run together with young people themselves, and designed around their interests and needs. 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