Why Starting Young Matters: The Big Benefits of Squirrels (4–6)
Squirrels might be our newest and youngest section, but they’re already making a big impact in South Ribble. Designed for children aged 4 to 6, Squirrels offers an exciting, inclusive, and meaningful introduction to Scouts and the wider World.
This isn’t just childcare or playtime — it’s about giving young people a head start in life. Research shows that experiences in early childhood can shape confidence, well-being, and achievement for years to come. That’s why we believe every child deserves the chance to start their journey with Squirrels.
High-quality early years experiences like this help close the learning gap and support better long-term outcomes, especially for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. The Sutton Trust and Education Endowment Foundation say early support matters most.
That’s why we believe every child deserves the chance to start their journey with Squirrels — and find their place today in a space built just for them.
Learning Through Play
Squirrels are rooted in purposeful play — where fun is the focus and learning happens naturally. From building dens to bug hunts, messy crafts to outdoor games, Squirrels learn by doing, all while having a blast.
These activities help young people:
- Develop fine and gross motor skills
- Improve focus, memory and coordination
- Build problem-solving skills by exploring, experimenting and adapting
- Learn teamwork through sharing, turn-taking and communication
From den building to nature trails, these playful learning experiences support early brain development, resilience, and emotional regulation — all key ingredients for future school success.
As the EEF points out, starting early makes a real difference — just one extra year of early education can lead to three months more progress on average.
Confidence from Day One
Squirrels is often a child’s first group experience outside their family or nursery setting. That first step can feel big, but at Squirrels, it’s filled with warmth, encouragement, and achievement.
We create a space where every child feels seen, heard and valued. This helps them:
- Grow independence through simple routines
- Make friends and learn social cues
- Build trust in adult volunteers and peer support
- Celebrate achievements, boosting self-esteem
According to Ofsted, many children start school with delayed social and communication skills due to the pandemic. Squirrels offers a solution: structured fun that builds confidence, empathy and early language skills.
The result? Big smiles, proud moments, and a growing belief that they can do anything — one step at a time.
Ready for the World
Squirrels doesn’t just prepare children for school — it sets them up for life.
Our programme complements early years learning by reinforcing core life skills like:
- Following routines and instructions
- Listening and speaking with confidence
- Understanding diversity and inclusion
- Taking care of themselves and others
Squirrels also support speech and language development — a vital area identified by NHS England and Ofsted post-COVID.
We’re also seeing success from intergenerational schemes and “grand friend” programmes that echo Squirrels’ impact, like those in this recent article showing how extra social experiences help children catch up.
What the Research Says
Long-term studies show that early socialisation, structured play, and exposure to group settings lead to better academic and personal outcomes later on. Scouts UK launched Squirrels in response to this growing body of research.
- The Sutton Trust: High-quality early years provision improves life chances
- EEF Toolkit: Extra early years hours = more learning progress
- Observer Editorial: The early years are where the gap begins — and where the change must start
Scouts’ goal? To ensure all children, regardless of background, can gain #SkillsForLife from the beginning.
Why Parents Love It
Parents tell us time and again that Squirrels make a huge difference. They see their children:
- More confident at school
- Better at making friends
- Eager to try new things
- Proud of their badges and progress
Unlike other clubs, Squirrels is part of a movement that supports children from age 4 to 25 — providing opportunities, adventures and friendships that last a lifetime.
Give Your Little One a Big Start
Squirrels offer something special: a place where young children can explore, grow and thrive — supported by trained volunteers and a proven programme designed just for them.
If you have a 4–6-year-old ready for a fun, confidence-building adventure, we’d love to welcome you to South Ribble Scouts.