Smurfs on Camp 2023: Top 10 Highlights

From the 30th of September to the 1st of October 2023, the Gladstone centre buzzed with the energy of our Beavers, diving deep into their Smurf-themed camp, planned to perfection, by our lovely leader Tic Tac. At 1st Bistre Scouts, we’re all about imparting skills for life, and this camp was a testament to that.

While we did face some unexpected weather challenges, just like the resilient Smurfs and our Scouts, we weren’t deterred. We improvised, adapted, and came prepared! Our Beavers got a taste of independent learning, teamwork, and boosted their confidence through an array of activities, from hands-on tasks to fun fireside moments.

Keep reading to explore the fun-filled escapades of your child’s weekend. We hope it brings a smile to your face as you relive their memorable journey with us! (and if you’re a parent who’s loving the pics, you can view the Full Gallery Here! The password can be retrieved from the 1st Bistre Beavers Facebook Page)

1. Camp Building: Foundations of Teamwork and Adaptability

Setting the foundation for our camp adventure, our Beavers jumped right into tent assembly! This wasn’t just about pegs and canvases, but lessons on safety, co-operation, and respect. Carefully navigating pegs and guy lines, they learned the importance of diligence, ensuring their shelter would withstand the elements.

Zipping tents shut became especially vital when the rain paid us a visit. Not only did it keep the insides cosy and dry, but it also became a practical lesson about being proactive and responsible for their surroundings.

But it wasn’t all work and no play! The Beavers enjoyed a bonding experience, respecting each other’s privacy and working together to set up their individual spaces. And while mother nature did have her say, causing us to shift indoors for safety, our Beavers showed immense adaptability. Relocating beds, and ensuring their sleeping area remained tidy and organised, became a lesson in resilience.

Through the challenges and changes, the 1st Bistre Beavers coordinated seamlessly with leaders, leveraging the strength of teamwork to navigate physical constraints. By the end of this session, they not only had a comfortable camp setup but also some invaluable life skills in their arsenal!

2. Shelter Building: Crafting Cosy Dens and Playing Spy Games

Out on the grounds, our Beavers took on a delightful challenge – crafting dens using just string, sticks, and camouflage tarpaulin. Split into teams, they dove deep into the art of shelter building, discovering the fun in designing a hideout both sturdy and stealthy.

But there was more to these shelters than just a cosy hangout spot. Rumour had it, the sneaky Gargamella was lurking about our camp! With their new dens as perfect hiding spots, the Beavers got into spy mode, peeking out and trying to spot Gargamella’s sneaky moves.

This activity was not only a lot of fun for the Beavers, but it promoted teamwork, strategic thinking, and practical survival skills. Crafting a shelter from scratch and using it in a playful scenario ensured the Beavers had both a learning experience and a memorable adventure!

3. Bow and Arrow Making & Target Practice

From gathering the right sticks to tying the perfect string tension, our Beavers embarked on a mission to craft their very own bow and arrows. Guided by the principles of design and balance, each Beaver took great pride in their creation, ensuring it was both sturdy and reliable.

But what’s a bow without some action? Once they had their DIY weaponry ready, it was time to test them out. A fun target practice session was set up, where the Beavers got to aim and shoot, refining their co-ordination and focus. Each shot was a lesson in patience, precision, and perseverance, attributes we highly cherish at 1st Bistre Scouts.

This hands-on activity not only tapped into the Beavers’ creative abilities but also gave them an exciting physical challenge, ensuring they had a great time while learning!

4. Whittling: Carving Out New Skills and Safety Lessons

Diving into the age-old craft of whittling, our Beavers got their first taste of carving with precision and care. Under expert supervision, they learned the basics of knife safety, mastering the proper way to grip and manoeuvre their tools with confidence.

This was also a lesson in responsibility and respect for the tools they wield. Curious about the term “blood bubble”? Ask your Beaver! This memorable phrase played a crucial role in their learning.

Have them demonstrate the correct sitting posture for whittling and quiz them on the do’s and don’ts they learned.

The experience was as much about understanding the significance of safety as it was about the satisfaction gained in creation. So, next time you’re around a campfire or in your garden, let your Beaver show off their newfound skills – safely, of course!

5. Wide Game: Letter Hunt and Word Puzzle

The woods came alive with excitement as our Beavers set out on a thrilling letter hunt. Hidden around the grounds were wooden Smurf characters, each proudly holding a letter of the alphabet. The challenge? Find these elusive Smurfs and gather the letters they carried.

But the fun didn’t stop there. Once all the letters were collected, the 1st Bistre Beavers faced another challenge: a word puzzle. They had to arrange the letters in the correct order to decode the mystery word.

The game tested their observation skills, teamwork, and patience. This was more than just a game – it was an exercise in collaboration and critical thinking.

6. Indoor Activities and Reflection

Mother Nature’s whims sometimes meant retreating indoors, but that didn’t dampen the spirits of our Beavers. They immersed themselves in lively card games like Dobble, challenged their precision and patience with Jenga, and tapped into their creative sides with colouring and drawing sessions.

But it wasn’t all games and fun. We also took these indoor moments to gather and chat, reflecting on the day’s adventures. Passing the baton around the circle, each Beaver had their moment to share, letting us in on their personal highlights and even the bits they weren’t so fond of. It was a heart-warming experience, giving a voice to every participant and strengthening our bond as a group.

7. Other Outdoor Games and Activities

Outdoor fun at the Smurfs camp wasn’t limited to just the main events. Our Beavers embraced the natural surroundings and let their imaginations run wild with a range of games and activities.

One favourite was the Scatter Game. After scattering in all directions and finding a perfect hiding spot, each Beaver had to avoid being spotted by the designated seeker, who, from a fixed spot, tried to catch a glimpse of the hiding Beavers, remembering and naming each one they saw. This game wasn’t just a test of stealth but also of memory.

The Blind Trail was another highlight. Beavers, blindfolded and guided only by ropes and instructions from their friends, navigated a maze of natural obstacles. This exercise was an incredible display of trust, communication, and teamwork, teaching our young scouts to rely on their other senses and on each other.

8. Food Glorious Food: Smurf Delicacies and Mealtime Etiquette

What’s a camp without some lip-smacking grub? Stitchy, our lead volunteer and esteemed “head Smurf”, whipped up a truly Smurftastic menu that had our Beavers’ taste buds dancing with delight. Apart from enjoying their own packed lunches, the Beavers were treated to a range of dishes inspired by our blue forest friends.

But it wasn’t just about the food. Meal times also offered a prime opportunity to instil some good old mealtime etiquette. The Beavers learned the importance of saying ‘please’ and ‘thank you’, waiting for everyone to be served before diving in, and the value of sharing and caring. With full bellies and a chance to rest between activities, these meals were more than just about food; they were about fostering community and gratitude.

9. Stitchy’s Songs by the Fire (An Improvisation)

While the damp weather may have doused our plans for a real campfire, at 1st Bistre Scouts, we’ve always got a trick or two up our sleeves! Our very own Papa Smurf conjured a magical illusion, creating a mesmerising “campfire” for all the Beavers to gather around. With the ambiance set, Stitchy took the stage, leading the group in a medley of memorable songs.

And if you’re curious to hear a sample, ask your Beaver to serenade you with the “Slow Motion Squirrel Song.” Trust us, it’s a catchy number you won’t forget anytime soon!

10. Movie Night and Indoor Camp

When life gave us rain, we turned it into a cosy movie night! The Beavers settled down with snacks in hand to watch the classic – “The Smurfs” on our big screen.

But as night descended, and with the grounds a bit too wet for our little adventurers, safety was paramount. We made the decision to pivot from outdoor camping to a unique indoor experience in the heart of the tremendous toadstool, Gladstone HQ.

Not only was this a warmer, drier alternative, but it had the added advantage of being a hop, skip, and jump away from the facilities. Sometimes, Smurfy sensibility means making the best of unexpected changes, and our Beavers proved they could adapt and have fun, no matter the circumstances!

In Smurfy Summary…

What a whirlwind of a camp! First and foremost, a blue-tastic thank you to all our dedicated volunteers and leaders, especially our Top Banana, Tic Tac, for meticulously planning and carrying out this Smurfstanding Camp! Your passion and resilience shine through in every activity. To our parents, your trust in us to guide your Beavers on this adventure is truly appreciated. And of course, to our Beavers, your enthusiasm and adaptability have been nothing short of smurftacular!

A huge shoutout to the Gladstone Centre for hosting us and being so accommodating. Over these two days, our Beavers have not only had heaps of fun but have also learned invaluable skills that will last a lifetime. From whittling to team-building, each activity was a step towards fostering their independence and confidence.

With such a successful camp behind us, we’re already buzzing with excitement for our next grand adventure.

Until next time, keep smurfing!