Scouting programs might be best known for the leadership and life skills they instill in youth. Young men and women learn to make decisions and inspire others. They explores various careers and learn communication skills. Scouting truly does prepare youth for life. See some examples below of how Scouting teaches leadership and life skills.
Scouting’s Teaching EDGE (BSA Edge Method)
The latest Scouts BSA requirements for Tenderfoot and Life ranks require the Scout to use the EDGE method. This is a four step method for teaching a skill. It is sometimes called Scouting’s Teaching EDGE.
BSA Medical Forms
All four of my boys had their physicals yesterday. And I took along the BSA medical form to have it filled out so they would be ready for camp this summer. Sometimes this takes parents by surprise. Remind them to make an appointment and get it done if they haven't already.
BSA Swim Test
The BSA swim test is used to determine ability level so that participants can swim in an area which is appropriate for them.
What Does the Pack Committee Chair Do?
A strong, involved Committee Chair really makes a difference to the Pack leaders and to the Pack program.
First Aid Baseball Game for Scouts BSA and Webelos
First aid baseball is a fun way to review first aid skills with Scouts BSA and Webelos. There are instructions for the game and a set of question cards included in the printable file.
The Three R’s of Personal Safety and Protection
BSA requires discussion of personal safety throughout it's programs
Forces of Flight Game
The Forces of Flight game would make a fun addition to a pack meeting for the Soaring the Skies Cub Scout theme. Use this game when the Cub Scouts have been sitting for too long and need to get up and move around.
Water Rescue Methods
Since I am focusing on an aquatics theme this month, I thought I'd post about water rescue methods. These are methods used to rescue someone who is in trouble in the water. You will see these methods throughout the BSA programs from Cub Scouts to Scouts BSA to Venturing.
Boom Chicka Boom Song
The lyrics in the post are the ones we used at the pack meeting. Feel free to add your own variations in the comments.
First Aid Demonstration for Cuts
When you are doing first aid instruction, it is best to demonstrate it as much as possible. Here is a way they showed us at a Pow Wow a few years ago. I did this with my previous Webelos den and they really enjoyed it.
Kims Game with Items for a Home First Aid Kit
Kim’s game is a traditional Scouting game which was introduced by Sir Robert Baden-Powell. It is based on a game describe by Rudyard Kipling. This version of the game helps Scouts learn what should be in a home first aid kit.
What Does the Cubmaster Do?
In Cub Scouting, adults work together to deliver program to the youth members. One of the adult positions is the Cubmaster.
Emergency Phone Number List
Emergency preparedness is part of every level of Scouting program. For younger Scouts, that primarily means knowing how to get help.
I Can Do That With One Hand Tied Behind My Back Game
The goal of this game is for two Scouts to work together to make a simple lunch. The challenge is that they each have one hand tied behind their back.
Homemade Silly Putty Recipe
Having a science themed meeting with your Scouts? Instead of a craft, make up a batch of silly putty. This stuff is stretchy and fun to play with.
Den Meetings in a Very Small Pack
How do you run den meetings in a very small pack where there are only one or two Cub Scouts in each den?
Human Knot Game
This is an icebreaker in which a group must work together to "untie" themselves from a knot. This is a cooperative rather than competitive game.
Safe Swim Defense
Safe Swim Defense provides the steps which a BSA unit must take to safely participate in an activity which involves swimming.
Family Tree Template
Helping Scouts look back at their family heritage fits in with February's Turn Back the Time program theme. Scouts can download this family tree template to write in their family back to their great grandparents.
What Does the Scoutmaster Do?
Scouts BSA Troops are "boy run", so what is the role of the Scoutmaster?
Troop Guide Description and Self Evaluation
Troop Guide is another important youth leadership position in a Scouts BSA Troop. A troop guide is an older scout who helps new scouts learn the "Boy Scout way" of doing things, which is much different from the "Cub Scout way" of doing things.
Ziploc Bag vs Pencil Experiment
This simple experiment to demonstrate the scientific method is always a hit with the scouts. The results are not usually what they expect. Use this to fulfill requirement 2 for the Cub Scouts Academics and Sports Program Science Belt Loop.
Welcome New Den Leaders
Whatever your story, I want to welcome you to the world of Scouting. If you haven't been offered a mentor by your Pack, find one! Hopefully there is an experienced Den Leader there who will take you under his or her wing and show you the ropes.
Disbanding a Very Small Scouts BSA Troop
A reader reports My son has been in a very small Scouts BSA Troop for 2 years now. Our scoutmaster had a meeting to discuss the fact that the boys scouting experience is very limited because of the troops size and suggested that the scouts transfer to another troop.
Quartermaster Description and Self Evaluation
Camping is an integral part of the Scouts BSA program and most troops have a good amount of camping gear to maintain. The Quartermaster is a youth member of the troop who keeps track of troop equipment and sees that it is in good working order.
Patrol Leader Description and Self Evaluation
A Patrol Leader is elected by his patrol. He is essential for implementing the patrol method within the Troop.
Picaria – A Native American Game
Picaria is a Native American board game. It is like a cross between tic-tac-toe and checkers. It could be used with Tiger, Wolf, or Bear electives or with a group working on the Indian Lore merit badge.
Fake Wounds for First Aid Demonstrations
If your Webelos or Scouts BSA are working on first aid requirements, you can add in some fun by making a fake wound on a "victim" or two.
Bernoulli’s Principle Demonstration
Use this demonstration for Webelos Scientist activity badge requirement 1: Read Bernoulli’s principle. Show how it works.It could also be done in conjuction with the Science Belt Loop and Pin from the Cub Scout Academics and Sports program.
Caterpillar Race Game
Here is a fun game for Cub Scouts. They will have to work together to match their movements, so it teaches them teamwork and coordination.
BSA Methods – The Patrol Method
A patrol is a small group of Scouts BSA within a troop. They elect a patrol leader and function almost like a family within the troop. They divide up the chores to be done and work together as a group to meet their goals. They develop a patrol spirit and take pride in their accomplishments as a team.
Safety Afloat
Before embarking on a boating activity with your scouts, make sure everyone is aware of the Safety Afloat guidelines.
Cub Scout Pack Committee
A well organized Pack Committee makes the Cubmaster's job much easier and ensures that a quality program is delivered to the youth.
Scribe Description and Self Evaluation
Almost every organization needs somebody to keep records. A Scouts BSA Troop is no exception. The Scribe is a youth member of the troop who records the minutes of the Patrol Leaders' Council (PLC) and works with the Troop Committee Secretary and Advancement Chair.
Hubbub – A Native American Dice Game
This is a traditional Native American game. The scoring systems seem to vary from one reference to another, so the system below is a simplified system which scouts should be able to follow.
Guide Me Game for Webelos, Scouts BSA, and Venturers
This game makes a fun break in a meeting. It is appropriate for Webelos, Scouts BSA, or Venturers. The will have to work together to accomplish their goal.
Senior Patrol Leader Description and Self Evaluation
If you are new to Scouts BSA, it is important to understand what the different positions do. The Senior Patrol Leader is elected by the scouts to represent them as the top youth leader in the troop.
Defining and Prioritizing Scouts BSA Youth Leadership Positions
Setting clear expectations for the youth leadership positions in a troop helps the youth members set goals. Some troops might also benefit from prioritizing the order positions are filled.
Troop Historian Description and Self Evaluation
The Troop Historian records troop activities. This job is perfect for a Scout who likes to take pictures and write journal entries.
What Does the Pack Trainer Do?
The main responsibility of the Pack Trainer is to ensure that the adults involved in the Pack are trained for their positions and are aware of supplemental training opportunities.
Pahsahëman – A Native American Field Game
Pahsahëman is similar to football. It has been played by the Lenape of the American Northeast for many generations. These instructions include tips for adapting this game for use with scouts.
Tabletop Tipi Model
Scouts who are doing a Native American themed meeting or activity can create a simple tipi model to get the idea of how these versatile dwellings are constructed. We made these at a Cub Scout training session and they were very easy.
Thanksgiving Ideas for Scouts
This month I am featuring a Thanksgiving theme. I'll have some crafts and other ideas for the Cub Scouts, but there are also things which Scouts BSA and Venturers can do with this theme.
Assistant Patrol Leader Description and Self Evaluation
The Assistant Patrol Leader is a youth member of a Scouts BSA Troop who is appointed by the Patrol Leader and leads the patrol in his absence. The position of Assistant Patrol Leader does not qualify for the leadership requirements for advancement. (See the leadership positions listed in the Star, Life, and Eagle requirements in the Scouts BSA handbook.)
First Aid for Tick Bites
Scouts like to get outdoors, but in many areas that brings the danger of tick bites. While most tick bites won't cause more than minor irritation, if treated incorrectly complications can occur.
What Is a Scouts BSA Troop Committee?
In a troop committee, committee members provide the support and resources which the youth leaders of the troop need to carry out their ideas.
Crossing the Alligator Pit Game
This is a very challenging game which combines lashing skills and teamwork. It would work well for an interpatrol activity at a meeting focused on pioneering skills.
Assistant Senior Patrol Leader Description and Self Evaluation
The Assistant Senior Patrol Leader is the second highest-ranking youth leader in the troop. He is appointed by the Senior Patrol Leader with the approval of the Scoutmaster.
Nap on Safely Training
I hope all of you Scouters out there will be able to complete your Nap on Safely training before or during summer camp. The guidelines are listed in this article. (Spoof!)
Den Chief Description and Self Evaluation
The Den Chief is a Scout who works with the Cub Scouts, Webelos Scouts, and den leaders in the Cub Scout pack. They can lead games, participate in discussions, help with Scout skills, and more.
What Does the Pack Secretary Do?
Pack Secretary is a position which can be filled on a Cub Scout Pack Committees. This is one of those roles which can be filled by a parent who wants to help out, but is not sure now. With some clear instruction anyone should be able to do what is required in this position, even if they are new to Scouting.
Home Safety Checklist for Cub Scouts
This is a home safety checklist for Cub Scouts to use. It can be used with Wolf Achievement 9 (Be Safe at Home and on the Street).
Venture Crew Officers
The leadership structure in a Venture Crew is much different than in a Scouts BSA Troop. Venturing offices are President, Vice President - Administration, Vice President - Program, Secretary, and Treasurer.
Junior Assistant Scoutmaster Description and Self Evaluation
The Junior Assistant Scoutmaster is a youth member of a Scouts BSA Troop who serves in the capacity of an Assistant Scoutmaster except where legal age and maturity are required. He must be at least 16 years old and not yet 18. He is appointed by the Scoutmaster because of his demonstrated leadership ability.
Building a Working Pack Committee
How can a Pack transition from a model where the Cubmaster does all of the work to one where the Pack Committee shares the load?
Faith and Our Ancestors Game
The Faith and Our Ancestors Game is an icebreaker activity with a genealogy twist. Players ask each other questions about how they think their ancestors lived.
Librarian Description and Self Evaluation
Most Scouts BSA Troops keep a library of merit badge pamphlets and other resources. The Librarian is a youth member of the troop who takes care of this troop literature.
Bugler Description and Self Evaluation
The Bugler plays the bugle at troop ceremonies. Bugler is one of those positions that many troops don't fill. There was a troop next to us at the last camporee with a Bugler, and there is something really nice about hearing Taps played at lights out.
Chicken on a Hut Game
This game makes a fun break in a meeting. It is a favorite with our Venture Crew. Because of the physical contact with the partners, when playing this game with our coed Crew, boys are partners with boys and girls are partners with girls.
Wilderness Survival Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA
This wilderness survival program feature offers the opportunity to plan a month's worth of troop activities with a focus on outdoor skills and survival techniques.
Cubmaster Minute – Science and Perseverance
The Cub Scout core value for the month of June is perseverance. Here is a brief Cubmaster minute to help Cub Scout understand why perseverance is important.
Sweet 16 of BSA Safety | Buddy System
I always tell my Scouts that of all of the things they can do to keep themselves safe, none is more important than the buddy system.
Tips for a Great Table Top Display
Table top displays are a way to show off a hobby, collection, event, or other project. Or you can showcase your unit's program. As part of the Hobbies Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA, table top displays are used in a hobby fair to show of each Scout's particular hobby. In addition, for several of the Venturing awards, Venturers must create a table top display.
Working With Large Cub Scout Packs
Barbara asked this question recently on the Facebook page: Just found your page and I'm anxious to poke through it. Anything on how to handle huge Packs? We currently have 88 registered Cubs and we'll probably hit 100+ by the fall. I've just signed on as the committee chair and I want to help continue our legacy of crossing over enthusiastic Cubs into Scouts BSA. How do we keep boys from feeling lost in the shuffle?
Program Planning for Scouts BSA
The Scoutmaster, Senior Patrol Leader, and Assistant Senior Patrol Leader work together to develop long term plans for a Scouts BSA Troop. One thing which can help with this is the BSA troop program features.
Inertia Demonstration
This demonstration can be used to fulfill Webelos Scientist activity badge requirement 3. It could also be used as part of a demonstration of the scientific method or a science experiment for the Science belt loop and pin from the Cub Scout Academics and Sports program.
Book Review Part 1: Developing Teen Leadership
I was recently asked to review a book on teen leadership. The book is called Developing Teen Leadership: A Practical Guide for Youth Group Advisors, Teachers and Parents. It is written by Dan Appleman who has 20 years of experience working with youth.
Nova Awards Program (STEM Award)
STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The NOVA Awards program combines knowledge of STEM concepts with hands on activities.
Air Pressure Demonstration
This would be a fun way to end a pack meeting or den meeting with a science theme. I guarantee that Cub Scouts will have fun blowing up balloons and letting them fly.
Clock Neckerchief Slide
Cub Scouts can make this simple neckerchief on their own. Use it as a gathering activity with the Turn Back the Clock theme.
Chaplain Aide Description and Self Evaluation
The Chaplain Aide works with the Troop Chaplain to meet the religious needs of the Scouts in the troop and to promote religious emblems programs.
Attendance Expectations for Scouts BSA
You might notice that the troop leadership position descriptions which our troop uses have attendance expectations on them Some people have asked me how we enforce these. Well, we do not. These are not demands or requirements in our troop. Instead we use them to indicate to the youth what sort of time requirements are typical for the position.
When I Was Young Gathering Activity
"When I Was Young" can be used as one of the gathering activities for any meeting centered around a history theme or a photography or cinema theme. This also works well for a Blue and Gold banquet.
Firem’n Chit Certification
Scouts BSA are going to build fires. That is pretty much a given. So they should be trained to use fire safely. This BSA certification provides a set of rules which can be used for training with Scouts. A pocket card is also available at your local Scout shop, to indicate that the Scout has completed the training and agrees to the rules.
Patrol Activities in a Scouts BSA Troop
One thing we'd like our youth leadership to consider is patrol activities. We have a pretty active troop program, but the patrols never do anything on their own. They could hike or get together to work on a requirement or even go on a campout.
Instructor Description and Self Evaluation
The instructor helps Scouts learn and demonstrate skills. He enlists the help of other experienced Scouts from the troop to help him.
Auld Lang Syne
Auld Lang Syne is traditionally sung at the end of the old and the very beginning of the new year. "For auld lang syne", loosely translated, means "for old times sake". The song is used to mark endings and new beginnings. For that reason, in the Scouting movement it is sometimes used to close big events, such as jamborees.
Den Chief Pledge
We have a new Tiger Cub den in our Cub Scout pack which does not have a Den Chief yet. So for his Scoutmaster Minute, my husband read the Den Chief Pledge and asked any of the Scouts who are interested in learning more about being a Den Chief to see him.
Emergency Preparedness Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA
The Emergency Preparedness feature teaches Scouts how to develop the first aid and leadership skills needed to deal with an emergency. Scouts learn to be prepared for accidents and natural disasters and to make informed decisions.
Patrol Planner for Campouts
The hope is that after a few months, this will provide some consistency so that our youth leaders will do more planning and delegating without as much adult intervention. I think if we provide them with some help and training and they try it, they will see that the patrol method really does provide a way for everyone to share in the duties and makes planning campouts easier.
Registering a Junior Assistant Scoutmaster
Reader Michael sent in this question: How do I go about registering an Eagle Scout in my troop as a Junior Assistant Scoutmaster?
Why Opossum Has a Bare Tail
This is a Native American story which scouts of all ages can enjoy. It is also a cautionary tale for young men who like to build huge campfires.
Shoot The Gap Game
This game is suggested as an interpatrol activity for one of the meeting plans in the Public Service troop program feature. This game would also work as a team building game or ice breaker, since the participants must know the names of the other players. So I think this could also be worked into a Crew program.
Listening and Observation
If you make listening and observation your occupation you will gain much more than you can by talk.
Robert Baden-Powell
OA Troop Representative Description and Self Evaluation
An Order of the Arrow Troop Representative is a youth liaison between the local OA lodge or chapter and his troop. In his troop, he serves the Arrowman as well as adult leaders and Scouts who are not OA members. He encourages Arrowmen to participate in lodge and chapter events. He also works to strengthen the troop's camping program.
Blister Treatment – First Aid
Blisters are a common injury for outdoor and physical activities. Correct blister treatment can prevent further irritation. Learn blister first aid.
Respectful Listening
Dealing with Scouts who won't listen when somebody is speaking can be a real challenge. Here are some tips and a code of conduct to help them listen and ask questions respectfully.
Chess Terminology Scramble Puzzle
Earlier this month, I wrote about basic chess terms. So today I am presenting a word scramble puzzle to reinforce the meanings of some of those terms.
Safety Programs Feature for Scouts BSA
The Safety feature teaches Scouts to "Be Prepared" for hazardous situations in their homes, on the street, and while out in the woods with their troop.
National Youth Leadership Training
National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) is an intense week long leadership training class for youth
Won’t You Smile Game
Won't You Smile is a team-building or icebreaker game suitable for Venturers or Scouts BSA.
Engineering Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA
The engineering troop program feature helps a PLC plan a month's worth of activities with an engineering theme.
Review: A Scout Leader’s Guide to Youth Leadership Training
I recently started reading a book called A Scout Leader's Guide to Youth Leadership Training: Working the Patrol Method. I am really impressed by this book.
Snapper Fishing Game
This is a traditional Scout game which might date back to Baden-Powell himself. It practices Scoutcraft (lashings) as well as cooperation and problem solving.
Online Training – Venturing Crew Officers Orientation
The Venturing Crew Officers Orientation is meant to be shown directly to your Venturing Crew officers. If you are a new Advisor or Associate Advisor, you will also find this training informational.
Product Review – Cobrabraid 550 Paracord Bracelets
I recently received some Cobrabraid 550 samples to review. The bracelets I received were made of study paracord.
Tent Pitching Contest (Standard or Blindfolded)
Tent pitching contests are an inter-patrol activity staple. To make it a blindfolded tent pitching contest, just add blindfolds. If you want, let one team member keep his vision, but he can only participate by giving verbal instructions to the others. This makes a good communications exercise also.
Den Leader Asked to Lead a Different Den
A Wolf den leader is seeking feedback about being asked to stay with the Wolf den next year instead of continuing with her son's den when they move to Bears.
Conflicts with Unit Fundraising
The best way to handle possible conflicts between unit fundraisers is to talk it out.
Caption Contest Gathering Activity
An idea for your gathering activities for photography or camera themes is to have a caption contest with some silly or unusual photos. . This can also be used just for laughs.
Annual Troop Parent Meeting
Every year we try to get as many parents, whether Committee members or not, together in a room to try to figure out how we can help our youth carry out their ideas.
Life to Eagle Reports
One thing we have done in our troop which seems to motivate our Life Scouts a little is the Life to Eagle reports at every Court of Honor. Each Life Scout gets up in turn and tells what he has done since the last Court of Honor to try to advance and what he plans to do next on his path to Eagle.
Toasted Chit Pressurized Fuel Training
Our council has a "Toasted Chit" training for pressurized fuel use. I believe this is a local requirement, but I thought the organization of the material might be helpful to anyone doing pressurized fuel instruction.
Mineral Hardness Scale (Mohs’ Hardess Scale Scratch Test)
If your Scout is working on a geology badge, he might need use a mineral hardness scale such as the Mohs's Hardness Scale Scratch Test.
Sweet 16 of BSA Safety | Discipline
Scouts can be instructed in the rules and understand them and still not follow them. Why does this happen? It is not necessarily because the Scouts are trying to be disrespectful. In many cases they are caught up in the fun of the moment. But if they are not following the instructions of the activity supervisor and it has the potential to become unsafe, it is time to step in.
BSA Methods – Leadership Development
I think that being elected by their peers is meaningful to many of our youth. The role of adults in these units is to train the youth leaders.
Native American Games
I've decided to work on Bear Elective 24 - American Indian Life. They have studied Native American culture this year in school and made model villages.
Recruiting New Scouts BSA
We know of a number of middle school students who are not currently involved in Scouting. So this is a good time of year to try to recruit them into the Troop.
How to Prevent Chafing at Camp
With all of the first aid information in the various Cub Scout and Scouts BSA handbooks, I never come across much information about the one problem we see most frequently at summer camp
Hometown Heroes Cub Scout Theme (Cooperation)
BSA has a Cub Scout pack meeting plan called Hometown Heroes. The Hometown Heroes meeting plan features ideas for the value of cooperation - games, group activities, songs, and more to help kids learn to cooperate.
Crew Activities – Skiing
At our Crew meeting this past Sunday, the focus was on skiing. Our council is having a ski night for Venturers at a local ski resort in January. The original plan had been to have a guest speaker come in and give some skiing tips. He couldn't make it at the last minute, so our Crew president made a presentation instead.
Sweet 16 of BSA Safety | Skill Level Limits
The most familiar application of skill level limits is the swim tests which are administered at summer camp. But there are other examples as well.
Using Chess Notation
Both the Chess pin from the Cub Scout Academics and Sports program and the Chess merit badge for Scouts BSA have requirements related to using chess notation and recording chess games. If you are not familiar with chess notation, this might seem a little daunting, but it really is pretty easy to learn.
New Parent Liaison
The New Parent Liaison would look at the information the troop sends out and, if there might be something which would be confusing or unfamiliar to the new parents, would send out a clarification to the new families.
Antichess Game
Do you feel like you always lose when you play chess? If you are better at getting your own pieces captured than capturing your opponents pieces, then Antichess is the game for you. In Antichess (sometimes called Suicide Chess or Giveaway Chess) the object is to lose all of your pieces.
Sun Safety Activity
This is a good time of year to review sun safety with scouts of all ages. Damage to the skin from sunburn can have lasting effects.
Troop Running a Pack Meeting
Tonight, our Scouts BSA Troop is running the Pack meeting for our Cub Scouts. They are going to divide into dens and each den will have several Scouts BSA doing skill instruction with them. They are working on things like knots and outdoor skills which relate to the advancement for each den. While they are doing that, the Scoutmaster (my husband), is going to talk to the Pack parents about the Scouts BSA program.
Problem – Scouters Too Involved in Meetings
The adults involved are very enthusiastic, which is great, but they tend to talk over the kids and take over the meetings. Some of the adults are keeping the kids form running the meetings successfully.
Crew Costume Party
Our Venture Crew is having a costume party tonight. JD is responsible for planning the activities. I've asked him for a general idea of what will be happening.
Review Part 2: A Scout Leader’s Guide to Youth Leadership
Today I continue reviewing a book called A Scout Leader's Guide to Youth Leadership Training: Working the Patrol Method. Get a copy and join in the discussion!
Nitro Transport Game
This is an initiative game. Its purpose is to get a group to work together to solve a problem. This should build teamwork and cooperation in the group.
Tips for Setting Up a Hobby Fair
As part of the Hobbies Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA, the Scouts will conduct a hobby fair to show of each Scout’s particular hobby. Here are some things Scouts might want to consider when organzing and setting up the fair.
Business Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA
BSA has a set of troop programs which can help PLCs plan activities around a theme. This business program feature offers the opportunity to plan a month's worth of troop activities with business theme.
Bughouse Chess Game
Bughouse (or Bunk House) is a game which helps even the playing field. Basically, there are two teams which simultaneously play chess together. Each player has a direct opponent, but when he captures a piece, he passes it to one of his teammates to play on the board. The key is to have the direct opponents as evenly matched as possible and then to have the teams fairly well balanced in skill level.
Troop Youth Leadership Seminar
We are particularly encouraging all of the new youth leaders to attend, but the seminar will be open to the whole troop. Hopefully some of the members will be inspired to apply for one of the open positions.
Book Review Part 5: Developing Teen Leadership
This final section of the book looks at how parents and teachers can apply the advice presented earlier in the book in their own unique roles to teens. It includes some caveats. For example, a teacher might be limited in how much control he can really allow teens to have in a classroom. It also includes some encouragement for parents and teachers, such as a reminder that parents are always a teens greatest role model.
Book Review Part 4: Developing Teen Leadership
I was recently asked to review a book on teen leadership. The book is called Developing Teen Leadership: A Practical Guide for Youth Group Advisors, Teachers and Parents. Today I am reviewing part 4 of the book - Topics.
Sweet 16 of BSA Safety | Physical Fitness
Anyone who has ever been to camp with a bunch of Scouts knows that safety needs to be our first priority. The Sweet 16 of BSA Safety describe the measures we should use at all Scouting activities. The second point of the Sweet 16 is Physical Fitness.
Book Review Part 2: Developing Teen Leadership
I was recently asked to review a book on teen leadership. The book is called Developing Teen Leadership: A Practical Guide for Youth Group Advisors, Teachers and Parents. It is written by Dan Appleman who has 20 years of experience working with youth.
Sweet 16 of BSA Safety | Permit and Notices
The twelfth point of the Sweet 16 is Safety Permit and Notices . Basically, this means if you need a tour plan or a local permit, get one.
Planning with Teenagers
When I was first approached to be the new Advisor for the Venturing Crew, our district executive warned me that teenagers don't usually plan ahead. Boy was he right!
Planning with Scouts BSA Youth Leadership
Help your youth leadership plan ahead by giving them a blank meeting plan template to fill in during their PLC meetings. Download a printable copy here.
Sweet 16 of BSA Safety | Personal Safety Equipment
Some participants in an activity might resist wearing the helmet or PFD, but it really doesn't matter if they want to wear the equipment or not. Either they comply or they don't participate.
Crew Activity – Teen Area at Homecoming
Our parish Fall Festival is coming up in a couple of weeks. Our Crew asked if they could do some sort of service project at the event, and it was decided that they would provide some sort of gathering spot for the teenagers. So they are going to have a pavilion type tent which is for teenagers - no little kids allowed.
Review Part 5: A Scout Leader’s Guide to Youth Leadership
Today, I am concluding my review of A Scout Leader's Guide to Youth Leadership Training: Working the Patrol Method. This excellent book really addresses some of the challenges of having a boy led troop.
Sweet 16 of BSA Safety | First Aid Resources
No matter what the situation, you should "Be Prepared" for first aid. Even at den meetings I keep a very small personal first aid kit on hand for dealing with scrapes and small cuts which can occur during games.
Review Part 4: A Scout Leader’s Guide to Youth Leadership
Today I continue reviewing a book called A Scout Leader's Guide to Youth Leadership Training: Working the Patrol Method. The sections I am reviewing today involve leadership styles and how adults can guide without taking over.
Atomic Chess Game
Do you think regular chess is boring? Then try atomic chess. In atomic chess, pieces don't just capture other pieces, they explode! Both pieces involved in the capture are destroyed along with any in the surrounding area. Sound like fun?
Sweet 16 of BSA Safety | Safety Procedures and Policies
Some of the things we do with our Scouts, especially our older Scouts, can be hazardous if you don't follow the safety rules.
Weather Hazards Online Course
Recent tornadoes in our neighborhood remind us more than ever that we must be prepared for unexpected changes in the weather.
Sweet 16 of BSA Safety | Planning
The tenth point of the Sweet Sixteen of BSA Safety is Planning. When you are organizing an activity, what sort of contingencies have you planned for?
Sweet 16 of BSA Safety | CPR Resource
Why take a chance? Encourage some adults in your unit to learn CPR. It's one of those things you hope you never need, but if you do it could save a life.
Regular Crew Meetings
Our Crew has been going for about 10 months now and our officers are still trying to determine what will work for the group. Up until now, our meeting schedule has been pretty irregular. Things have been going pretty smoothly for the group, but it seems like regular meetings would help with planning and growing.
Sweet 16 of BSA Safety – Weather Check
It is important to know the difference between uncomfortable weather and hazardous weather. BSA provides a great online course for learning about hazardous weather.
Sweet 16 of BSA Safety | Equipment Selection and Maintenance
Equipment selection and maintenance covers a lot of different things - intended use, fit, checking operation regularly ...
Sweet 16 of BSA Safety | Safe Area or Course
Of course, if an area looks unsafe, we wouldn't let them go there. But we also need to actively look for hazards
Sweet 16 of BSA Safety | Qualified Supervision
Keeping our Scouts safe is our number one priority as Scouters. The Sweet 16 of BSA Safety describe the measures we should use at all Scouting activities. The first point of the Sweet 16 is Qualified Supervision.
Sweet 16 of BSA Safety | Applicable Laws
It seems to go without saying that we should follow the law. Clearly we aren't going to take our Scout unit out and rob a bank - no matter how dire the fundraising needs!
Can A Youth Be Senior Patrol Leader and Crew President at the Same Time?
A mom sent in this question: "Our crew wants to stop the scouts from serving as President in the crew and Sr patrol leader at the same time. Does anyone else have this rule? "
Book Review Part 3: Developing Teen Leadership
I was recently asked to review a book on teen leadership. The book is called Developing Teen Leadership: A Practical Guide for Youth Group Advisors, Teachers and Parents. Today I am reviewing part 3 of the book - Programs and Activities.
BSA Methods – Group Activities
"Group Activities" is one of the BSA methods for Venturers.
Review Part 3: A Scout Leader’s Guide to Youth Leadership
Today I continue reviewing a book called A Scout Leader's Guide to Youth Leadership Training: Working the Patrol Method. Have you read this book? It is really a good explanation of how youth leadership should work in a Scouts BSA Troop.
Travel Safety Checklist for Cub Scouts
Most of us will be travelling this summer. We might be going on a vacation, heading out to camp, or taking a weekend visit to see relatives. So this is a good time to review travel safety rules with our kids.
Sweet 16 of BSA Safety | Communications
Scouting activities are group activities. It doesn't do much good if the supervisor knows all the rules, regulations procedures but can't communicate those to the participants. And what good is that plan you spent so much time on if you didn't share it with others?
Make a Tornado in a Bottle
Tornadoes are destructive storms are caused by a vortex. You can use the classic “tornado in a bottle” demonstration to explain how a vortex forms.
Fall Fun Rally | BSA Centennial Year National Venturing Event
This year Fall Fun Rally has been designated the BSA Centennial Year National Venturing Event.
Crew Activity – City Museum
The Crew is planning another activity this meeting. They are all going to church together and then they are heading to the City Museum. The City Museum is often described as a giant playground for teenagers and young adults, so this should be a fun activity for them.
Camping In Instead of Camping Out
We didn't expect a tremendous turnout for January tent camping, but only 3 youth (2 of them my sons) and my husband signed up. So it had to be cancelled.
Scouts BSA Star Board of Review Requirement Helps and Documents
The final step for a Scout who is attempting to earn the rank of Star is the Board of Review. This is normally done after the Scoutmaster Conference. The Board of Review may ask questions to determine if requirements were met, but it is not a retest of requirements.
Wright Brothers Supernova Helps and Documents
e Wright Brothers Supernova Award is the second level (silver) Supernova Award for Venturers. This award is available to those who earned the Dr. Sally Ride Supernova Award as a Venturer. (Option 1) This award is also available to registered Venturers who earned the Dr. Bernard Harris Supernova Award as a registered member of Scouts BSA (Boy Scouts). The requirements are slightly different in this case. (Option 2)
Scouts BSA Life Board of Review Requirement Helps and Documents
After a Star Scout has his or her Scoutmaster Conference, then a Board of Review takes place as the final step toward the rank of Life. The Board of Review is usually conducted by members of the Troop Committee.