This week’s activity for Scouts is a Street View Orienteering course (based on the Tulla course we did a couple of weeks back). Thanks to Eoghan for putting this together.
Getting Started
Load up Google Maps and search for “Limerick” and open Streetview
So while we’re all at home, why not take the opportunity to earn a Special Interest Badge. Special Interest Badges (SIBs) allow you to earn badges for your hobbies and interests and can be done at home by taking on a project. Here’s how you do it.
1) Choose an interest
This can be a new hobby or an existing one – its up to you.
2) Choose a challenge
Come up with a project for you to improve yourself in your interest area. The keyword is CHALLENGE. This has to be something that challenges you (so it can’t be too easy). A good tip to break your project up into 3 parts – something to learn, something to do and something to make.
Need some inspiration. Here are some sample projects for each section (not all of these are suitable in the current situation but we encourage you to be creative):
This is the fun part. This will take some time. You can spread it out over the next few weeks. You can involve your family but you have to do most of the work
4) Make a record of your work
This could be a diary, videos, photos, a poster or any combination of these. The idea is to capture the work you did on this badge
5) Share your project
Email your leaders (see above) when you’re done and tell us how you got on. When we’re all back together, you’ll need to tell your lodge/six/patrol/crew
At this time, we understand your kids may be nervous about what they are hearing. Barnardos Ireland have published this guide on how to talk your kids about Covid-19. Please share so more parents can see it
We have developed guidance to support parents when talking to their children about Covid-19 (Coronavirus). For more live and up to date information please go to hse.ie
1. Keep calm. Check in with yourself, how are you currently feeling? When parents are feeling anxious children can notice this and begin to feel stressed too. If needed, take some time for yourself or talk to another adult about your fears before talking to your child.
2. Talk to your child. As parents, we instinctively want to protect children from things that might frighten them; however not talking about something can make children more scared. Ask your child to tell you what they have heard about the virus and ask them how they are feeling. Let your child know that they can ask you questions. If you do not have all the answers, that is ok, tell your child you will let them know when you know.
3. Answer questions. Many children will have heard about the virus and may already be asking questions. This is an opportunity to talk openly to your child and to share fact-based information. Answer your child’s questions in language they will understand with a level of information appropriate to your child’s age. Avoid sharing too much information, as this can be overwhelming.
4. Create a safe environment. Your child might be worried they will catch the virus. To reassure your child talk to them about everything you and they are doing to stay safe, for example washing their hands, using and disposing of tissues etc. Try to limit your child’s exposure to news reports and discuss your worries outside your child’s earshot.
5. Maintain a daily routine. A consistent daily routine is very important for children as it creates a sense of stability and predictability. This will be of particular importance if your child’s school or crèche closes. Keep the days structured with consistent mealtimes, playtime, bedtime etc.
6. The best way you can support your child whenever they are feeling anxious is by reassuring them. Tell them you understand how they are feeling and let them know you are always there to listen, support, take care of them and give them a hug when needed.
We have two events for the Scouts on Saturday 7th December– a hike and a sleepover. Can you please inform the Scouters by Thursday 5th December if your son is attending.
Moylussa Hike
We will be hiking up Moylussa (531m), the highest point in Clare. We’ll be meeting at the Scout Hall at 9 am. We expect to return to the hall around 2 pm (update to be sent via WhatsApp group). At this time of the year, there is a possibility that the summit of Moylussa will be covered in snow.
As part of their badgework, Scouts should do the following before the hike:
Scouts should pack their own bags (see below) and know what goes in the bag (and why)
Scouts should be able to get a weather forecast for the day of the hike
Gear List
Due to the time of the year, warm clothes, raingear and headtorch are essential as well as the usuals. Please ensure all Scouts have the correct gear as it is important for their safety, wellbeing and enjoyment on the hike.
Scout Neckerchief
Day bag
Raingear
Hiking boots
Hat & Gloves
Warm Clothes (layers)
Water (2ltr min)
Packed Lunch
Bivy Bag
Change of Clothes/Shoes (to be left in the leaders’ cars)
Christmas Sleepover
Our second event is a Christmas Sleepover in the Scout Hall. This event is being organised by our Patrol Leader’s Council. There is a €7 charge for food.
This will start from 8.30 pm (Please note there is a Heineken Cup match on in Thomond Park at 5.30 pm so there may be a considerable amount of traffic in the area). We’ll be finishing at 10.00 am on Sunday.
Scouts should bring a sleeping bag and ground mat.
Mobile phones/electronic devices are not permitted.
On Saturday, Mike, Barry, Ger, Eoghan and Jack attended the Southern Province’s Conference in the Charleville Park Hotel. In the morning they attended workshops on Governance, Programme Resources & Events, Youth Development, Safeguarding and Technology in Scouting. The afternoon featured a Q&A session with members of the Scouting Ireland board.
