Often, after a day on a camping trip and the Scouts are down for the night
the leaders take some time to review those days and the next days activities.
We also talk about scouting and the development of the scouts in the
Troop. In one such conversation the question was raised what experiences
parents want to provide to their children.
We as volunteers in the scouting program assume that parents want to
assure that they provide their children with experiences that will give
advantages in life. Experiences that will lead to a fuller healthier life.
Experiences that can introduce them to careers that they would have
otherwise considered. Experiences that would introduce them to hobbies
and physical activities that can be enjoyed for a lifetime. An achievement
that can help them get into college or a military academy. An achievement
that can set their resume on top of the pile when looking for a job.
How does this all happen? The four aims of scouting are, Citizenship
training, Character Development, Mental & Physical Fitness, and
Leadership Development
These are accomplished thru a series advancement ranks. The first four
ranks develop the skills to give each scout confidence in the outdoors. The
remaining three ranks further develop those outdoor skills and whole
world of new experiences thru the merit badge program. The achievement
mentioned earlier is the highest rank Eagle Scout.
Where else can a teenager explore 137 different subjects with a mentor
experienced in that field. Subjects include important life skills, careers,
hobbies & physical activities. These mentors, we call them Merit Badge
Counselors, are volunteers who want to pass on their skills and experiences
to the next generation.
We the adult leaders of Troop 25 have experienced the significance of this
program personally as Scouts, thru our children or both. We would like
all you parents to understand the benefits scouting can bring to your
children as well.
Mostly what we have address here is the Scout portion of the scouting
program for boys and girls 10½ to 18 years old.
The Cub Scout program for boys and girls ages 6 to 10½, has age-
appropriate programs for each age group. We recommend starting your
children cub scouts because they are more likely to stay with the program.
If your child is in the 10½ to 18 age bracket they are certainly able to join
the Scout Program. We have had scouts join the Troop at 14 or 15 years
old who were able to complete the Eagle Scout rank before their 18 th
birthday.