Squirrel Scouts were introduced to 1st Dromore Newry Scout Group in the Summer of 2025. Indeed, this wasn’t just a first for us in Newry, this was a first for Scouting Ireland, as we piloted the newest section of 4 to 6 year old girls and boys.
Our intention was to incorporate Scouting principles and S.P.I.C.E.S. through our programme. But, obviously, on a very simple but effective level to engage with this age group. Our aim was to foster confidence, independence, decision making, learn the buddy system, practise sharing, learning the scout sign, and learn to take turns all through the medium of fun and games.
We were able to use the outdoor space as much as possible, at every
meeting. Each meeting had a set format of musical introduction/circle time. Through the weeks, this proved to settle the children, enabling them to learn the names of both the Scouters and each other. It set them up for the next stage in the session. We then had our physically active game or challenge. This was always centered around the theme of that week. The themes were:
- Week 1: Growth in Nature
- Week 2: Under the Sea
- Week 3: Letu2019s Go Camping
- Week 4: Minibeasts ‘n’ Bugs
- Week 5: Outer Space
- Week 6: Building Bridges
We then had our craft activity again incorporating the theme, and working in the small group system. This required the children to use their fine motor skills with varying levels of dexterity. Scouters were always on hand to offer assistance. Beading, planting seeds, sticking paper/wood. We concluded with colouring in / chat time and finally Tidy Up time.
We presented each Squirrel with a certificate of participation on the last session. Parents and guardians were also invited to the end of this session. We saw amazing personal progression through the weeks and were amazed by the differences we saw in only a few short weeks.
This was a very rewarding 6-week programme for the children and the adults involved. We look forward to what the future holds for the Squirrel Scouts! Watch this space…