Frequently Asked Questions Q: Why are the updates taking effect on June 1? A: In the BSA computer systems all Scouts are automatically moved from one grade to the next, this is called “roll-over”.  The effect date of June 1 is to coincide with grade roll-over.  As a practical matter, June 1 is the beginning […]

CUB SCOUT UNIFORM Visit a Local Scout Shop Go to your local store and try out the different Cub Scout Uniforms and more! Find a Scout Shop Visit a Local Scout Shop Go to your local store and try out the different Cub Scout Uniforms and more! Find a Scout Shop Lion – Kindergarten The […]

The New Troop’s First Campout This guided campout and training session for new Scout troops is designed to give them a good beginning in their first camping experience. This program can be done under the supervision of the campmaster corps. An effective and satisfying outdoor program is vital to the success of any Scout troop. […]

As always, the BSA’s top priority is the health and safety of all youth participating in BSA programs. In 2020, the BSA instituted several modifications to rank requirements and merit badge requirements (“advancement modifications”) to accommodate activity restrictions necessitated by COVID-19. Effective March 01, 2022, those modifications will be removed, and the standard rules for […]

Frequently Asked Questions Updated 1/3/2024 Overview of the Cub Scout Program Updates Effective June 1, 2024, the Cub Scout program will be updated to ensure that Cub Scouting is Fun, Simple, and Easy. Fun for Cub Scouts, parents, and leaders. Simple to understand and explain. Easy to deliver as designed. These updates are the result […]

Den Leader and Assistant Den Leader All Den Leader uniform have the following parts; 1. Shirt—The official tan uniform shirt is available with long or short sleeves and has button-flap pockets.  Den leaders wear blue shoulder loops.  The Cub Scout Den Leader position patch is placed on the left sleeve.  2. Pants— The official green […]

Cub Scouts earn Adventures that are specific to their grade and rank.  A number of Adventures must be completed to earn the badge of rank for each grade level. Adventures may be earned in any order.  Completion of adventures is how the aims of character, citizenship, leadership, and personal fitness are developed. Download a PDF of […]

Contents Promoting Service Projects Encouraging Data Collection Using the Data Frequently Asked Questions Promoting Service Projects What are some ways to promote conducting a service project? Promotion cards with the unit’s Journey to Excellence service hours website login codes distributed through annual program launch unit packets. Display booth at annual program launch. Link to Journey […]

The window for Eagle boards of review of the Inaugural Class of Female Eagle Scouts is from October 1, 2020 to February 8, 2021. As such, all Eagle Scout credentials will be dated February 8, 2021 so that we commemorate this milestone alongside the recognized “birthday” of the Boy Scouts of America.   This adjustment was implemented so that Scouts were not unfairly prohibited from being […]

Policy Regarding Prohibited and Unauthorized Activities The Boy Scouts of America’s Charter and Bylaws, Rules and Regulations, policies, and program guidelines help provide a safe and consistent program. Council and unit charters as well as individual registration are conditioned upon adherence to those requirements. Adult volunteer leaders and units that allow youth or units to […]

As of December 2012 1. There has been discussion that this program is all about closing camps. Can you share the reason for the program and the changes that have been proposed? With the camp occupancy rate being 50.4 percent nationwide, a review of camp property utilization needs to be conducted as to how many […]

Alpine Ecosystem Card Categories  Plants Conifer tree Oak tree Wildflower Downed log Grass Mammals Mouse Rabbit Deer Coyote Insects Grasshopper Mosquito Ant Fly Amphibians/Reptiles Snake Frog Birds Jay Woodpecker Hawk Oriole Download “Scenario Card” .PDF file Understanding Outdoor Ethics This activity will take approximately 45 minutes. What Your Group Will Learn This activity plan will […]

This module is designed to help you learn about wildlife and the natural world around you.   1. Choose A or B or C and complete ALL the requirements:     A. Watch an episode or episodes (about one hour total) of a show about wildlife, endangered species, invasive species, food chains, biodiversity, ecosystems, or […]

  When Reece Kilbey asked me if I wanted to write a blog about all I have done in Scouting my first reaction was: “No, I don’t think anybody would be interested”, but then I thought that it would be fun to record my journey from a little girl in Nazi Germany to Bronze Wolf […]

A steady flow of youth into a Scouts BSA troop is essential to maintaining the troop’s health. Plus, new Scouts bring energy and enthusiasm to the troop program! To avoid the pitfall of shrinking membership, a troop should add at least 10 new Scouts every year. Having a year-round growth plan in place will help […]

SUMMARY Who doesn’t love a glowing campfire at the end of the day? However, to make sure it won’t be your tent that burns, let’s look at some good fire safety practices. GENERAL INFORMATION Handbooks for each program have useful tips for campfires. Here are a few highlights: Environmental conditions Leaders should understand the local […]

The Tyger By William Blake Tyger Tyger, burning bright, In the forests of the night; What immortal hand or eye,Could frame thy fearful symmetry? This module is designed to help you explore how symmetry affects your life each day. Choose A or B or C and complete ALL the requirements. Watch an episode or episodes (about one hour total) of a […]

The troop open house allows a troop to swing open its doors and roll out the red carpet to welcome guests. It provides a forum to show off Scouting activities and the troop’s accomplishments. It is an effective tool to reach youth who have never tried Scouting. Hosting a troop open house is a five-step […]

Overview To recognize Scouts BSA members and Venturers age 15 and older, and adult volunteers who have successfully completed the BSA Lifeguard course and demonstrated the ability to perform each of the skills taught in the course. Who Can Earn This Certification? Earned by any youth age 15 and older, and by any adult. How […]

Contents What is a Service Project? Planning a Service Project Service Project Ideas Public Relations Frequently Asked Questions Recording Service Hours Ideas for Everyday Kindness and Good Turns What is a Service Project? Who: All Scouting groups are encouraged to participate in this service project initiative. What: This is a time for all Scouting groups […]

THANKS FOR JOINING US AT FAMILY FUN FEST! From astronauts to crafts, to the ultimate Pinewood Derby at the Texas Motor Speedway, Family Fun Fest was all about showcasing some of the awesome things Cub Scouts do. Watch the entire event from start to finish, or check out some of the fun activities below! AUGUST […]

Pat Fountain’s Reflection on his time as an International Staff Support Team Stafferat the 2017 BSA National Jamboree. Imagine you are at a Scout camp and awakened to the sounds of foreign languages. Or rolling out of your tent to be greeted by Scouters in yellow, red or bright blue uniforms. No you would not […]

Den Leader Tips & Tricks Videos Rank Overview Den Leader Tips Scoutbook Hacks Scoutbook is the BSA’s online unit management tool and helps Scouts, parents and leaders track advancement and milestone achievements along the Scouting trail. The Den Leader Experience is a web app that makes it easier than ever for den leaders to prepare […]

The Training Times A Publication of Volunteer Development, Scouting U, BSA – January 2024 EditionDownload Printer-Friendly Version In this edition: National Volunteer Training Conference Philmont Training Center Scouting U Week at Philmont Scouting U Conferences at Philmont Kodiak Challenge Discontinued Upcoming Training & Events National Volunteer Training Conference  Flyer Scouting U Week at Philmont Flyers […]