BSA Substance Abuse Prevention Program

Scott sent in this question:

My son is home schooled and has to do the requirement for second class 7c. The drug awareness part. do you have any suggestions on what he can do to meet this requirement? Any help would be great. Thanks Scott

This is Second Class requirement 7c:

• Participate in a school, community, or troop program on the dangers of using drugs, alcohol, and tobacco, and other practices that could be harmful to your health. Discuss your participation in the program with your family, and explain the dangers of substance addictions.

Substance abuse is a critical issue that affects individuals and communities worldwide. Recognizing its significance, organizations like Scouts BSA have incorporated substance abuse prevention programs into their requirements. However, when a child is homeschooled, finding appropriate resources to fulfill these requirements may pose a challenge. In this blog post, we will discuss various options for Scott and his son to meet the second class 7c requirement of Scouts BSA, emphasizing substance abuse prevention programs that can be conducted at home.

Scott’s concern about finding suitable alternatives to meet the drug awareness requirement for his homeschooled son is valid. Although these programs are often conducted in group settings, the Scouts BSA acknowledges the importance of flexibility in fulfilling this requirement. The concept of “community” can be interpreted broadly, allowing for participation in programs with the patrol, troop, home school association, or other appropriate groups.

Fortunately, there are numerous online resources available for substance abuse prevention education that can be utilized effectively in a homeschooling environment. Here are a few suggestions:

• Drug Free Generation: The Drug Prevention Resources organization offers a comprehensive catalog of free educational resources covering a wide range of topics, including alcohol, drugs, vaping, opioids, and more. Scott can explore their website to find suitable materials for his son’s age and needs.
• D.A.R.E Curriculum: D.A.R.E (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) is a well-known substance abuse education program. Their curriculum is accessible on their website and offers different levels suitable for various age groups. Scott can select the appropriate level of the curriculum to provide his son with a structured and comprehensive learning experience.
• BSA Substance Abuse Program: The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) also provides a substance abuse prevention program called “Drugs: A Deadly Game.” This program addresses the dangers associated with substance addictions and offers materials that can be ordered online. Additionally, these materials may be available at local Scout shops, making it easier for Scott to obtain the necessary resources.

Completing the requirement is not solely about acquiring knowledge; it also involves discussions and sharing information with family members. Scott should encourage his son to engage in meaningful conversations about substance abuse with the family. They can discuss the dangers, consequences, and potential impact on individuals and society as a whole. By facilitating these discussions, Scott can promote a deeper understanding of the topic and encourage open communication within the family.

Homeschooling provides a unique opportunity for parents and guardians to take an active role in their child’s education, including fulfilling specific program requirements such as Scouts BSA’s substance abuse prevention program. By exploring online resources like Drug Free Generation, D.A.R.E Curriculum, and the BSA Substance Abuse Program, Scott can ensure that his son receives comprehensive and relevant education on substance abuse prevention. Engaging in discussions with family members will further enhance the learning experience and promote a deeper understanding of the dangers associated with substance addictions.