As a Leader supporting AJ2025 you may need to support someone suffering from homesickness. Here's some advice to help you help them.
Homesickness, or separation anxiety, means a Scout misses their family, friends, pet, house, even their neighbourhood; things in life that are comfortable and familiar. In fact, for some, any time a person is away from home even for just one night, it can be tough.
NEVER suggest that they can go home. The phrase ‘If you don’t like it you can go home’ causes problems. There are better ways of supporting your Scouts and helping them grow.
FUN is at the top of the list of homesickness cures. The more fun and activity you keep Youth Members busy with, the less they will feel homesick. So, as a Leader keep your Scouts busy and for the first few days discourage them lying around, texting, playing electronic games or going off to their tent alone. Remember, be positive and firm. Discourage the over-use of mobile phones.
INVOLVE THE PATROL. Take the Patrol aside and explain to them how sad one of their members is feeling. Encourage the Patrol to engage the homesick child in activities, maybe make them a Leader in a game. The Patrol system is integral to the Scouting section. The Patrol should form the support structure for each member and as such, provide 'security'.
Limit telephone calls home if possible. Parents/guardians starting to worry about their youth member doesn’t help. Going home is not an option. True, there is no place like home and being homesick (away and missing the things you know and where you feel comfortable and familiar) is not much fun, but if it happens at all, it normally only lasts one or two days and it is a great help to the child’s personal development by learning ways of beating it.
If concerned ask for support from your Welfare Leader or Contingent team.
