Bringing a group of Scouts to the National Jamboree is an exciting and rewarding experience for adult leaders. However, the logistics of planning and executing such a trip can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to keeping in contact with your Scouts before and during the Jamboree. Here are some tips to help you stay connected with your Scouts, and keep parents in the loop.
Before the Jamboree, it’s a good idea to establish a communication plan with your Scouts and their parents. This can include creating a group chat or email chain, and providing regular updates about important dates, deadlines, and logistics. Make sure to emphasize the importance of communication, and encourage Scouts to ask questions and provide feedback. This will not only help with planning, but will also ensure that everyone is on the same page and prepared for the event.
During the Jamboree, there are a variety of electronic communication tools that can help you stay in touch with your Scouts. Many units use messaging apps like WhatsApp, GroupMe, or Slack to communicate with each other. Some units might use social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to share photos and videos of their trip planning and adventures during the Jamboree. It’s important to establish a protocol for how and when you will communicate with your Scouts, and make sure that everyone knows how to use the chosen tools. Contingent leaders should review the BSA Social Media Guidelines and Digital Safety and Online Activities Safety Moment for tips on using digital communication services.
In addition to electronic communication, it’s important to have a plan in place for emergency situations. Make sure that all Scouts and adult leaders have each other’s contact information, and establish a clear protocol for what to do in case of an emergency. Some units create business cards with phone numbers for their contingent leaders. These can be kept in a Scout’s wallet or phone case so they have them at all times. Unit leaders can also encourage Scouts to add their contingent leaders as emergency contacts on their phone should there be an emergency.
To keep parents in the loop, consider creating a way to share photos and updates from the Jamboree. This will allow parents to follow along with their Scouts’ experiences, and can help alleviate any concerns or worries they may have. It’s also important to communicate with parents regularly, both before and during the Jamboree, to keep them informed about what their Scouts are doing and how they are doing. Should parents have questions, it’s important for you to communicate to them that those questions should go to local leadership at Jamboree prior to reaching out to National Jamboree leadership.
Finally, it’s important to remember that while electronic communication can be a valuable tool, it’s not a replacement for in-person interaction. Make sure to carve out time during troop meetings, shakedown events, and during the Jamboree (maybe create a 5-minute morning meeting during breakfast or during dinner) for meaningful face-to-face conversations with your Scouts, and encourage them to connect with each other and build relationships that will last a lifetime.
Overall, keeping in contact with your Scouts electronically before and during the National Jamboree is an important part of being a successful Scouting leader. By establishing a clear communication plan, using electronic tools to stay in touch, and prioritizing in-person interactions, you can help ensure that your Scouts have a safe, rewarding, and unforgettable Jamboree experience.