Welcome to Scouts BSA

Scouts BSA helps youth grow into responsible leaders. The program teaches them to live by the Scout Oath and Scout Law. These are the values at the heart of everything they do. The Scout Oath talks about doing your duty to God and country, helping others, and keeping yourself strong in body and mind. The Scout Law reminds Scouts to be trustworthy, loyal, helpful, and more. These are not just words to memorize. They are meant to shape the way Scouts act at home, school, and in the community.

Scouts BSA has a long history. It started over 100 years ago and has helped many young people grow in character and leadership. It is not the same as Cub Scouts. Scouts BSA is youth-led, which means Scouts make decisions and learn by doing. Adults help guide and support, but they don’t run the program. This change can be confusing to parents who are used to the Cub Scout model. But it is part of what makes Scouts BSA so special and helpful.

Every troop is connected to a chartered organization. This group might be a church, a school, or another community group. The chartered organization agrees to help run the troop and supports it with space or other resources. They help choose the main adult leaders, including the Scoutmaster and Committee Chair. It’s a key partnership, even if you don’t see much of it at weekly meetings. It helps keep the troop strong and focused.

Your troop’s leaders report to the chartered organization and to Scouting America. This helps make sure every troop follows the same basic rules and standards. But troops can still be very different from each other. Some camp a lot. Some meet every week. Some have a lot of older Scouts. Others are just starting. That is why it’s important to find a troop that fits your family’s needs. Once you understand the basics, you’ll be better able to support your Scout on the journey.

To get started in Scouts BSA, you need to find a troop. Most boys and girls join around age 11, but it is never too late to start. Look for local troops using the official BeAScout website or by asking at your local school, church, or community center. Some families ask friends for troop recommendations. Visiting more than one troop is a good idea. Each troop has its own schedule and way of doing things, even though they follow the same program.

When visiting a troop, try to go to a regular meeting. Watch how the Scouts lead the activities. See if the youth are having fun and staying involved. You might want to ask about how often they camp, how long meetings last, and how advancement is handled. Troops that seem active and organized are usually good choices. Pick one where your child feels welcome and excited to be part of the group.

Once you find the right troop, the next step is registration. You will fill out an online application or a paper form. You will also need to pay the registration fee. Some troops collect dues to cover activities and supplies. Others may charge extra for each event. Ask how the troop handles money and if they offer help for families who need financial support. You can also ask about fundraising options.

After registering, your child will receive a Scout Handbook. This book is very important. It explains the Scout ranks, requirements, and skills. Encourage your child to bring it to every meeting and campout. Many requirements get signed off in this book. It becomes a record of progress. Help your child take care of it and keep track of where it is. You may also need to buy a uniform, which we will cover in another section.

One thing that surprises new parents is how Scouts BSA is run by the youth. This is called the patrol method. It means Scouts are grouped in patrols, which are small teams. Each patrol has a leader who is also a youth. The troop as a whole is led by a Senior Patrol Leader. Adults are there to support and keep things safe, but they do not lead the meetings or plan the events. The Scouts do that themselves.

The patrol method teaches responsibility. It also helps Scouts work as a team. When something does not go well, Scouts learn from it. If the meeting runs late or someone forgets gear, they fix the problem together. This might not seem efficient to parents, but it’s a powerful way to learn. The goal is not a perfect meeting. The goal is growth. The more youth lead, the more they learn to lead.

Learn more about the Patrol Method here.

There are many leadership roles in a troop. The Senior Patrol Leader leads the troop. Assistant Senior Patrol Leaders help. Patrol Leaders guide their own patrols. There are also youth in charge of communication, planning, gear, and more. Scouts take turns in these roles. They run elections. Sometimes, they do well. Sometimes, they struggle. Either way, they are learning real skills. Adults stay in the background, offering advice when needed.

See the Scouts BSA youth leadership positions here.

New parents often want to step in and “help things run better.” But stepping back is part of the method. It can be hard to watch Scouts make mistakes. But that is where the learning happens. The patrol method is not about being efficient. It’s about building leaders. When Scouts figure out how to work together, they grow in confidence and maturity. That’s what the program is really all about.

Adults play an important part in a Scouts BSA troop, but their role is different from what many Cub Scout parents are used to. In Scouts BSA, youth lead the program. Adults provide support, training, and safety. The Scoutmaster works directly with the Scouts, especially the youth leaders. The troop committee helps with behind-the-scenes tasks like fundraising, membership, and planning. Other adults can register as assistant Scoutmasters or committee members too.

Learn more about the Troop Committee here.

Even if you’re not a registered leader, there are still ways to help. You might drive Scouts to a campout, help organize an event, or provide food. Some parents teach merit badges if they have special knowledge. Others help track advancement or manage gear. You don’t have to take on a big job to make a difference. Helping when you can shows your Scout that the program is important.

One rule every adult should understand is called two-deep leadership. That means there must always be at least two registered adults present with youth at any Scout activity. This keeps everyone safe. No adult should be alone with a youth who is not their own child. Youth protection training explains this in more detail. All registered adults must take this training and keep it up to date.

Scouts BSA wants all adults to set a good example and follow the rules. If you’re not sure what to do, ask a leader. They’ll be happy to explain how your help can fit in. Sometimes the best thing parents can do is stay out of the way while the Scouts lead. Other times, your support can make a big difference. Be patient. Learn the program. It takes time, but it’s worth it.

Troops usually meet once a week. Some also have extra patrol meetings. These meetings are planned and led by the youth. They work on skills, plan outings, and prepare for upcoming activities. A well-run meeting includes fun, learning, and leadership. Adults are present, but the Scouts do the talking and leading. The more they practice, the better they get at it.

Courts of Honor are special meetings where Scouts are recognized for their achievements. These may happen a few times a year. Families are encouraged to attend. The Scouts plan and lead the event, but adults help with setup and planning. It’s a good time to celebrate progress and learn more about what your Scout has been doing in the program.

Learn more about the Court of Honor here.

Each troop handles money in its own way. Some charge dues at each meeting. Others collect fees monthly or yearly. Most troops also raise money through fundraisers like popcorn sales or car washes. Ask how your troop handles funds and what costs to expect. Many troops offer payment help or gear loans if needed. Don’t be afraid to ask.

Troops use different tools for communication. Some use email. Others use apps, websites, or printed calendars. Make sure you are connected to whatever system your troop uses. Check it often. Many questions can be answered by looking at the schedule or reading a troop message. If you still have questions, reach out to a leader. Good communication helps things go smoothly for everyone.

The Scout uniform is an important part of the program. It helps Scouts feel like they belong. It also shows others that they are part of something special. The basic uniform includes a shirt, pants or shorts, a belt, and a neckerchief. Some troops wear a full uniform every week. Others only wear part of it for meetings and the full uniform for events.

Most parents buy a uniform shirt and patches from a Scout shop. You’ll need a council patch, unit numbers, a World Crest, and a badge of rank. Some shops will sew the patches on for you. You can also find placement guides online or in the Scout Handbook. Many parents also ask other parents if they’re not sure where something goes.

The merit badge sash is worn over the shoulder at formal events like Courts of Honor. It holds the merit badges a Scout earns. Some Scouts also earn extra awards that go on the uniform. These have special places, too. Be sure to check placement before sewing or ironing them on. Uniform inspections are a way to help Scouts take pride in their appearance.

Not all Scouts can afford a new uniform. Many troops have used uniforms that can be passed along. Some Scout shops offer uniform banks or sales. Ask your troop leaders what options are available. The most important thing is that your Scout feels like part of the troop. Don’t worry if the uniform isn’t perfect. What matters most is that they wear it with pride.

Scouts BSA uses a rank system to help youth grow and learn. The first rank is Scout. Then they move through Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and Eagle. Each rank has a list of requirements. These include learning skills, doing service, showing leadership, and living by the Scout Oath and Law. Scouts work on ranks at their own pace. Some move quickly. Others take more time. Both are fine.

Learn more about Scouts BSA Ranks here.

Parents often ask how they can help their child advance. In Scouts BSA, the Scout is in charge of their own advancement. That means the youth should ask for help, track their progress, and schedule what needs to be done. Parents can support by encouraging them, giving rides, and being positive. But it’s the Scout who does the work, not the parent. This helps them learn responsibility and independence.

To move up a rank, the Scout must complete all the requirements and then meet with the Scoutmaster. This is called the Scoutmaster Conference. It’s a chance to talk about progress, goals, and experiences. After that, the Scout has a Board of Review. This is a short meeting with three or more registered adults. They ask simple questions to make sure the Scout is learning and growing. It’s not a test.

Keep the Scout Handbook updated. This is the official record of what has been done. If a requirement is signed off in the book, it counts. Some troops also use online tracking systems, but the book is still the key. Check in with your Scout from time to time, but let your Scout be the one who takes the lead. That’s how they grow in confidence and skills.

Merit badges let Scouts explore topics that interest them. Some teach outdoor skills like camping and hiking. Others are about hobbies, safety, science, or future jobs. There are over 100 badges to choose from. To start a badge, the Scout asks the Scoutmaster for a merit badge card. This is the record of the work. The Scout then contacts a registered merit badge counselor.

Learn more about merit badges here.

The counselor is an adult who is approved to teach and sign off on that badge. The Scout and the counselor plan how to complete the requirements. Most work is done outside of meetings. The Scout must do the work and show the counselor they have learned the material. Once done, the counselor signs the card, and the Scout returns it to the troop for recording.

There are 14 badges required for Eagle. These include badges like First Aid, Citizenship in the Nation, Personal Fitness, and more. Scouts must earn at least 21 total badges to earn the Eagle rank. This includes the 14 required badges and at least 7 more electives. Even if a Scout has 20 badges, they cannot earn Star, Life, or Eagle until they also have the required badges.

Parents can help by reminding their child to keep track of the merit badge card. They can also help find time to work on the badge and drive them to meetings with the counselor. But it should be the Scout who contacts the counselor and asks questions. This is part of the learning process. The goal is for the Scout to grow in responsibility and confidence.

Scouts can earn more than just ranks and merit badges. There are many other awards and recognitions that make the program even better. These include things like the World Conservation Award, the National Outdoor Awards, and the Religious Emblems. These are optional, but many Scouts enjoy the challenge and pride of earning them.

One of the special honors in Scouts BSA is the Order of the Arrow. This is Scouting’s national honor society. Scouts are elected by other Scouts for showing leadership and service. To be eligible, they must meet certain requirements, including camping nights. Being chosen is a sign that others trust and respect them. It’s a great way to learn more about service and teamwork.

Learn more about the Order of the Arrow.

There are also awards for special achievements like hiking long trails, staying fit, or completing service projects. These awards don’t count toward rank, but they help Scouts stay active and motivated. Some are just for fun. Others build real skills. Your troop might also have local awards or recognitions.

Parents can help by reading about these awards with their child. They can suggest goals or point out opportunities. But again, it’s up to the Scout to take the lead. Encourage them to ask questions at meetings and to bring up new ideas. These extras help Scouts find new interests and stay involved with the program.

Scouts move at their own pace in this program. Some work quickly. Some take longer. That’s normal. Parents often want to keep track of everything, but this is the Scout’s job. Still, you can help by showing them how to stay organized. A small notebook or phone app can help keep track of nights of camping, service hours, and other things they’ll need to record.

Long-term tracking is important. Some awards, like the National Outdoor Awards, need lots of days or hours over time. It’s easy to forget things if you don’t write them down. The Scout Handbook helps with this, and so do some online tools like Scoutbook. Just be careful not to take over. Ask your Scout to show you how they are tracking things. Help them learn to do it themselves.

One good habit for a Scout is to write down each campout and event after it happens. That way the Scout remembers what they did, who was there, and what skills they used. This is helpful when it’s time for a Scoutmaster conference or a Board of Review. It also builds confidence when they see how much they’ve done.

Check in every now and then. Ask questions, but let them find the answers. Encourage them to talk to the Scoutmaster or older Scouts if they’re unsure. When Scouts take responsibility, they grow. That’s the goal. It may be slower than what you’re used to, but it works.

Most Scouts join for the outdoor adventures. Troops camp often, usually once a month. These outings teach skills like cooking, hiking, first aid, and teamwork. The youth plan and run the campouts. Adults are there to supervise and keep everyone safe. Scouts bring their own gear and sleep in tents. The troop may provide some items, like cooking supplies or tarps.

Before campouts, patrols plan meals and divide gear. This is called the duty roster. Each Scout has a job. They take turns cooking, cleaning, and leading activities. They learn by doing, even if it’s messy or things go wrong. Adults give advice but don’t step in unless there’s a safety issue.

Packing is an important part of getting ready. Most troops give out a packing list before campouts. Scouts should pack their own gear. That way they know where things are and learn what they really need. Common items include a sleeping bag, clothes, flashlight, and mess kit. Make sure they have weather-appropriate gear.

See a sample packing list.

After campouts, Scouts reflect on what worked and what didn’t. This helps them prepare better next time. They get stronger and more independent with every outing. Parents can help by reminding them to check their gear and practice packing. Let them make mistakes and figure it out. That’s how growth happens in Scouts BSA.

Earning Eagle is a big achievement, but it’s not the only goal in Scouts BSA. Some youth will reach Eagle. Others won’t. That’s okay. The real goal is learning leadership, service, and responsibility. Still, many parents ask about the Eagle process. It starts with meeting the rank requirements through Life Scout. After that, the Scout begins work on their Eagle project.

The Eagle project is a large service project planned and led by the Scout. They must get approval from their troop and council before starting. It should help the community in a lasting way. The Scout must plan, organize, and lead the project. Adults can give advice, but the Scout does the work and leads others. This is a big part of showing they are ready for Eagle.

After finishing the project and all the other requirements, the Scout fills out an application. This includes letters of reference and a summary of their Scouting experience. They then have an Eagle Board of Review. This is like other Boards of Review, but it goes deeper. The panel makes sure the Scout has truly learned what the program teaches.

Learn more about the path to Eagle Scout.

Parents can support by offering encouragement, giving rides, and listening. But let your Scout take the lead. It’s their project and their rank. Reaching Eagle is not just about earning badges. It’s about growth. If your Scout earns Eagle, they will carry that honor for life. But even if they don’t, what they learn along the way is what really counts.

New Parent Liaison

Many Scouts BSA troops now have a New Parent Liaison to help families make the shift from Cub Scouts. This role supports new parents as they adjust to a very different program. The liaison reviews troop messages and helps explain things that might be confusing. They also answer common questions or find out who to ask. If one parent is confused, others likely are too—so the liaison shares updates with the whole new parent group.

Often, the liaison is someone who knows the troop but also knows the new families. A former den leader with older Scouts is a great fit. This role helps lighten the load for the Scoutmaster and committee by sharing information and guiding others. It also helps prevent burnout. When troops give jobs to more parents and let them do things in their own way, everyone benefits. It builds a stronger team and a better experience for the Scouts.

What is the difference between Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA?

Cub Scouts is for younger children. Adults lead the meetings and activities. In Scouts BSA, youth lead. They plan meetings, lead campouts, and make decisions. Adults are there to guide and keep things safe.

How old do you have to be to join Scouts BSA?

Most youth join at age 11. They can also join if they have finished the fifth grade or earned the Arrow of Light in Cub Scouts. The program is for ages 11 to 17.

Do boys and girls meet in the same troop?

No. Scouts BSA is for both boys and girls, but they are in separate troops. Some troops are linked and meet at the same time and place, but they have different leadership and Scoutmasters.

How often do Scouts meet?

Most troops meet once a week. Some patrols meet at other times too. Troops also have monthly campouts and other activities during the year.

Do parents need to stay for meetings?

No. Parents do not have to stay unless they are helping. Scouts BSA encourages youth to be responsible and independent. Parents are always welcome to stay and watch from the sidelines if they want.

What do Scouts do at meetings?

They learn new skills, work on rank advancement, plan outings, and practice leadership. They also play games and have fun together.

What should my Scout wear to meetings?

Most troops ask Scouts to wear their uniform shirt and neckerchief. Some troops ask for the full uniform. Ask your troop what they expect.

How do Scouts earn ranks?

They complete the requirements in the Scout Handbook. Then they meet with the Scoutmaster and have a Board of Review. They move through the ranks at their own pace.

How do merit badges work?

Scouts pick a badge, ask the Scoutmaster for a blue card, and find a counselor. They meet with the counselor to learn and show what they know. When the badge is done, the counselor signs the card.

Can parents sign off on rank requirements or merit badges?

No. Only approved leaders and counselors can sign off. Scouts must show what they learned to someone who is approved to sign off.

What is the Eagle Scout rank?

Eagle is the highest rank in Scouts BSA. It takes years of work. Scouts must earn at least 21 merit badges, hold leadership roles, and complete a service project. It shows they have learned leadership and service.

How can I help as a parent?

You can drive to events, help at fundraisers, or become a registered leader. You can also encourage your Scout to stay active and do their best. Just be sure to let your Scout lead the way.

Being the parent of a new Scout can feel confusing at first. Things may not look very organized. Meetings might seem noisy or slow. You might want to jump in and fix things. But take a breath. This is how Scouts BSA works. It is youth-led. That means your child is learning by doing—even if it doesn’t look perfect. And that’s a good thing.

Scouts BSA is not about quick results. It’s not a race. It’s a journey. Along the way, your Scout will learn leadership, build friendships, and grow in confidence. They will set goals and work toward them. They will face challenges and figure things out. You will be surprised by how much they grow when you step back and let them lead.

Your job is to support, encourage, and guide from the side. Be there when needed. Drive them to events. Ask how things went. Cheer them on. But let them do the work. Let them own their success. It may take time, but that is how real learning happens.

Scouts BSA is more than just campouts and badges. It’s about becoming a better person. And it works—if you let it. So hang in there. Ask questions. Learn with your child. And enjoy the adventure together.