In my new column I am going to introduce you to the wonderful world of Girlguiding. This month, we are going to focus on Girlguiding’s youngest section, the Rainbows. These adorable little ‘reds’ can join us aged four, but many units wait until they are five, or at least until they have settled at school. As you can imagine, a gaggle of nearly seven-year-olds can be overwhelming to someone who has only just turned four!
This term, the Caterham Hill Rainbows have had a blast learning about Burns’ Night, with Scottish dancing and tasting haggis, and celebrating Chinese New Year by making paper lanterns and taking home some traditional sweets. With our younger sections, you can’t go far wrong by including food activities a couple of times a term.
Chloe, a young leader in Whyteleafe, says:
“I like talking to the girls about their days, hearing their funny stories and finding out about what they learn at school. I find running games exciting and they enjoy me being there.”
Katie, a young leader in Caterham, told me that,
“…helping at Rainbows is the most wholesome activity and I look forward to it every week.”
Nicola, Rainbow leader and commissioner for Caterham Valley, shared:
“It’s incredibly rewarding to watch a shy four-year-old grow and develop their confidence over the few years they are at Rainbows. It’s wonderful to see them making new friends, learning new skills, earning badges and most of all having fun!”
This month, Chelsham Rainbows are having a sleepover (not sure how much actual sleep will happen!), and many of our Rainbows will be making special gifts for Mothers’ Day and for Easter. We are super-excited that in June many of our local Rainbows will be participating in ‘Animal Events’, where units from over the Home Counties are heading to a local zoo or animal sanctuary. The first time your ‘little reds’ see another Rainbow unit and realise that they’re not the only Rainbows in the world is the funniest thing!
These young people simply leak energy, happiness and positivity. We’d love to welcome more adults to join the fun. Contact Sue at godstonedivision@gmail.com or visit the Girlguiding website to see what it’s all about.
