FAQ
What is Scouting?
Scouting has been teaching boys and girls to appreciate the outdoors, learn how to work with others and make new friends since 1910. Besides building your son’s confidence, Scouting give you the opportunity to watch him grow and mature into an active member of the community.
When does the Scouting season begin?
The scouting season is basically the same as the school year. Our first pack meeting will be in September. Click here for important dates for the upcoming Scouting season.
Cub Scouting is for boys and girls in the first through fifth grades, or 7 to 10 years of age. Those who are older than 10, or who have completed the fifth grade, can no longer join Cub Scouting, but they may be eligible to join the Boy Scouting or Venturing program.
Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, and Venturing are programs of the Boy Scouts of America—so in that sense, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Venturers are all members of the same organization. However, they are entirely different programs: Cub Scouting is a family-oriented program designed specifically to address the needs of younger boys. Scouting is designed to achieve the aims of Scouting through a vigorous outdoor program and peer group leadership with the counsel of an adult Scoutmaster. Venturing provides positive experiences through exciting and meaningful youth-run activities that help members pursue their special interests, grow by teaching others, and develop leadership skills.
What do Scouts Learn?
A survey of Cub Scout parents given by the Wilder Research Center showed that over 50% of those surveyed said there was an increase in their child’s self-esteem, willingness to help others and ability to make good decisions and solve problems. These results reveal that, aside from the fun and excitement of Scout activities, Scouting helps boys learn ideals they can apply to everyday life.
How are the Scouts organized?
Each Scout is a part of a den of 6-8 boys that meets three times a month for about 1 1/2 hours. Each month, all the dens within a neighborhood community come together as a pack. At monthly pack meetings, participants are recognized for their individual and group achievements.
Cub Scouts meet in their dens once each week, and a pack meeting is held for all Cub Scouts and their families once a month. Beyond that, it depends on the den and pack: A den may hold a special activity, such as a service project or visit to a local museum, in place of one of the weekly meetings or in addition to the weekly meetings. Likewise, a pack may conduct a special event such as a blue and gold banquet as an additional event, rather than a substitute for its monthly pack meeting.
Cub Scout den meetings are intended to be an activity for the individual boys. They are not a family activity, and the presence of parents can be a distraction. However, parental involvement is not forbidden and all meetings should be open to your participation. If you would like to be present at a den meeting, ask the den leader in advance so that the leader can plan a way for you to observe or participate in an unobtrusive manner.
What can I expect to get out of having a Scout in the family?
As much as or more than what you put in. Scouting helps strengthen your relationship with your son and gives you a chance to spend real quality time having fun and learning together.
Can my child join if he has a disability or special need?
Absolutely. The Scout’s motto is “Do Your Best” which means each boy is encouraged to perform to the best of his ability. If you have any questions about your son’s special needs, give the Scout Service Center a call at 800-213-1418.
At minimum, each Scout will need a uniform and a handbook. Additional supplies and equipment may be needed for certain activities such as camping trips or field days. What equipment is needed, as well as whether it will be provided by the unit, will vary. Unit leaders should provide parents with information about any supplies that will be required at the beginning of each program year.
How do I get my child involved in Scouting?
The top of this flier should tell you when and where you can go to join the Pack nearest you. Membership with the Boy Scouts of America is a very affordable activity, but all can join regardless of their ability to pay. If you can’t make the scheduled meeting, don’t worry, you can join anytime. Just contact the Madison Scout Service Center at 800-213-1418 or visit us at www.beascout.org.
I have more questions!
Check out the extensive FAQ page at scouting.org for more information all things scouting!
For more information contact:
Cubmaster
Jenn Pingel | (513) 235-0121 | jspingel@gmail.com