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While no two groups will follow exactly the same pattern it can help
everyone involved if you have a routine to your meetings. Below is the
routine and timings for an elfin and pioneer group that meet once a week
for 90 minutes. Exact timings vary, usually depending on the craft or other
activity for the evening
Arrival 6.15
This can be quite chaotic. You will need someone to take subs and a
register, it's helpful if this can be the same person every week so that
the children know who to give their money to. You may also need a couple
of people to arrange the room ready for the activities.
Games 6.20
Aim for a mixture of active and quieter games. The games games games
book available form Folk supply has plenty of ideas in it. Try to offer
a few suggestions and let the children choose unless. Running games can
be one of the most daunting parts of a groups night to organise, everything
tends to look like chaos. We usually have one leader running the games
and watching the mood of the group with one or two others watching out
for and dealing with individual children or incidents helps take the pressure
off. Also try to get everyone playing, even the adults.
Circle 6.55
This is a time for everyone to have a quick rest before carrying on
with the activities and a drink is often served. It's also the time when
we share news, each person in the circle telling us something that happened
recently. We then explain the second part of the evening.
Activity 7.05
Often for younger children this is a craft activity however it does not
have to be. It can be anything from drama, to singing to writing protest
letters. Some groups like to have a theme lasting a number of weeks and
plan their activities around this.
Leavetake 7.45
Once everyone has help with the clearing up there is a final circle where
any massages are passed out. After this the group either says the envoi
or sings link you hands together.
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