Summer term is full of on-water adventure around the county. We’re spoiled for choice when it comes to opportunities to paddle. For many seasoned Scouts, it’s a refreshing experience in so many ways, but for our youngest sections, the Squirrels, the warmer months offer the chance to enjoy the water for the first time.
Maidenhead Squirrels gathered on Summerleaze Lake recently to share a boating experience that offered the fun and excitement of water activities with important lessons on safety. The event, hosted by 1st Maidenhead (Mid Thames) Sea Scouts combined the paddle power of parents and Squirrels as they circumnavigated the lake.
Coming off the water, Squirrel Tommy said to his mum, “That was absolutely amazing, when can we do that again?”
On land there was plenty for Squirrels to do, including making their own pirate flag and raft, an ‘Acorn’ obstacle course to keep up their physical fitness and a team game which involved trying to fill a pipe with water faster than the water could escape through the holes! It took the combined effort of Squirrels and adults to retrieve the ping pong ball from the bottom of the pipe!
The event also marked the start of the Royal Life Saving Society UK’s Drowning Prevention Week (13-20 June). Parents and Squirrels were given water safety advice as well as an opportunity to play a game, spotting all the dangers when out playing near rivers. To top the afternoon off, the Squirrel Scouts earned a certificate and their Level 1 Nautical Badge.
