We were, like many, slightly daunted by the prospect of virtual meetings but a catch-up call in mid-May proved that we could do it. Having been encouraged by accounts of other events we also decided to try a virtual sleepover at the start of the school holidays when 3rd Three Bridges Brownies had originally hoped to be away. We extended the invite to 1st Three Bridges Rainbows.
A unicorn challenge badge was popular with the Brownies and fine weather enabled garden planning meetings for leaders. Rather than purchasing and delivering supplies, we opted for plenty of choice and activities which required simple resources that should be readily available to all. We were mindful that some of our girls don’t have gardens and that parents would have varying amounts of time to provide support. An email set out the suggested activities and call timings and parents were encouraged to discuss with their Rainbow/Brownie in advance to help them choose appropriate activities. We planned 5 calls with most being just 30 minutes; the leaders had a basic plan for each to help ensure we knew who was doing what.
Girls were asked to pack their bags in the morning as they would for any residential, they then needed to build their “end of the rainbow” space where they would sleep. Most created indoor dens but there was one who camped in the garden. They were all asked to help with the preparation (and clearing up) for meals during the event, just as they would on a real residential.