Main Content
Some of you may have Scouts BSA or Venturers in your families who are in the process of becoming members of the Order of the Arrow. Just when you thought you were getting a grasp on Scouting, they threw something new at you!
Having a secret code can be fun. There are several simple methods of coding communication so that only those who know the "secret" know what is being said.
A reader asks "The fun is gone. I know Scouts BSA is different than Cubs, but is it supposed to be no fun? Is there a suggestion I can take to the Scoutmaster that might help him keep these boys interested?"
A reader asks " I am putting together a Leader Orientation for next year and was wondering what you would include, especially with the upcoming program changes."
Most Scouts are probably familiar with the "Build My Plate" model from school. To make the nutrition components of the Scout program more interesting, turn them into a hands-on activity.
The Fast Food Song is fun for Scouts. It is an action song and would fit in well with a nutrition themed meeting.
Tin can lanterns make a very versatile craft project for Cub Scouts. You can make the holes in any pattern you like - a star for Christmas, a ghost for Halloween, a heart for Valentine's day. Webelos and Bears can probably do this project themselves with some adult supervision. Younger scouts will need more direct help from the adults.
A crossword puzzle for Webelos working on their Arrow of Light award or for new Scouts BSA who are working toward their Scout rank. This puzzle has clues from the Scout oath, law, motto, and slogan.
Scouts were singing this song long before it was a pop phenomenon. Instead of Baby Shark, we called it Jaws Song. This is a classic camp song. There are lots of variations. If you want to ham it up even more, change your voice when singing the different verses to sound like a mama, papa, lady, etc.
This demonstration fits in well with a Science theme, a STEM activity, or any meeting related to flight.
I can't say there is any lesson to be learned from this skit other than don't forget to bring your tent. And no, this is not my impression of bikers, so don't write. Maybe you could start with some humor and then lead into a discussion about leadership.
Before embarking on a boating activity with your scouts, make sure everyone is aware of the Safety Afloat guidelines.
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.
These guidelines are appropriate for a front country adventure in an area like a park. That is the only type of hiking which is appropriate for Cub Scouts. If you are going on a back country hike, then you need to consider some other safety rules, like bringing a fire source and knife.
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.
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.
This game doesn’t take much space, so it can be played indoors. If you think ahead and take the materials to camp with you, you can even play it under a fly on a rainy day.