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Volunteering at Scouts is changing to help us reach more young people

Volunteering is changing to help us reach more young people

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How can I discuss behaviour with the parent or carer?

How can I discuss behaviour with the parent or carer?

Below are some suggested questions to help frame a conversation with the parent/carer of a young person who has been displaying challenging behaviour in Scouting. These questions could also be used to help plan ahead for a new Member who you are aware has behaviour difficulties.

Remember that this is a sensitive topic, and it is important to try to maintain a positive and open relationship with the parent/carer; working together to support the young person to access Scouting. Where there is repetitive challenging behaviour or the challenging behaviour is severe, you may wish to seek some more support from your Group Scout Leader, Assistant District Commissioner (Section) or Assistant District Commissioner (Inclusion). You can also seek support through the Scout Support Centre.

Focus on the behaviour rather than the young person, and the impact this is having on the young person’s ability to access, enjoy and develop in Scouting. Stick to the facts of what has happened and focus on planning ahead, to support the young person to manage their behaviour in the future.

  • [Name] seems to struggle at times with their behaviour. Does this happen anywhere else?

  • Are there any recognised triggers for the behaviour at home or school?

  • Are there any situations where [name] will find it difficult to cope?

  • What methods/strategies have worked well at home or school, to discourage the behaviour?

  • What support strategies have worked well at home or school, to encourage positive behaviour?

  • What do you do at home when the behaviour occurs?

  • What happens at school when the behaviour occurs?

  • Is [name] on any medication?

  • How do you think we can best support [name] with their behaviour at Scouting?

  • How do you think we can best support [name] to manage their behaviour?