FAQ
What is Scouting?
Scouting has been teaching youth to appreciate the outdoors, learn how to work with others and make new friends since 1910. Besides building your child’s confidence, Scouting gives you the opportunity to watch your child grow and mature into an active member of the community.
When Do You Meet?
Scouting is a year-round program. Our Pack has Pack meetings September – May. During the summer months, the Pack participates in special activities such as sporting events and camps. Click here for important dates for the upcoming Scouting season.
Cub Scouting is for boys and girls in kindergarten through fifth grades, or 5 to 10 years of age. Those who are older than 10, or who have completed the fifth grade, can join Scouts BSA (ages 11-17) or a Venturing program (ages 14-21).
Cub Scouting, Scouts BSA, and Venturing are programs of Scouting America—so in that sense, they are all members of the same organization. However, they are entirely different programs: Cub Scouting is a family-oriented program designed specifically to address the needs of Scouts ages 5-10. Scouts BSA is designed to achieve the aims of Scouting through a vigorous outdoor program and peer group leadership with the counsel of an adult Scoutmaster. Venturing provides positive experiences through exciting and meaningful youth-run activities that help members pursue their special interests, grow by teaching others, and develop leadership skills.
What do Scouts Learn?
A survey of Cub Scout parents given by the Wilder Research Center showed that over 50% of those surveyed said there was an increase in their child’s self-esteem, willingness to help others and ability to make good decisions and solve problems. These results reveal that, aside from the fun and excitement of Scout activities, Scouting helps children learn ideals they can apply to everyday life.
How are the Scouts organized?
Each Scout is a part of a den of 6-8 same-age peers that meets two to three times a month for about 1 1/2 hours. Each month, all the dens within a neighborhood community come together as a pack. At monthly pack meetings, participants are recognized for their individual and group achievements.
Cub Scouts meet in their dens one to two times each month, and a pack meeting is held for all Cub Scouts and their families once a month. Beyond that, it depends on the den and pack: A den may hold a special activity, such as a service project or visit to a local museum, in place of one of the weekly meetings or in addition to the weekly meetings. Likewise, a pack may conduct a special event such as a Blue and Gold banquet as an additional event, rather than a substitute for its monthly pack meeting.
Cub Scout Lions (kindergarten) meet with their parent partners to work through activities and advancement. Cub Scout Tigers (1st grade), Wolves (2nd grade), Bears (3rd grade), WEBELOs (4th grade), and Arrow of Light Scouts (5th grade) meet with their Dens and the Den leader. It is intended to be an activity for the individual Scouts. Parental involvement is welcome in coordination with the Den leader.
What can I expect to get out of having a Scout in the family?
As much as or more than what you put in. Scouting helps strengthen your relationship with your child and gives you a chance to spend real quality time having fun and learning together.
Can my child join if he has a disability or special need?
Absolutely. The Scout’s motto is “Do Your Best” which means each Scout is encouraged to perform to the best of their ability. If you have any questions about your child’s needs, give the Scout Service Center a call at (608) 310-7300.
How do I get my child involved in Scouting?
Membership with the Scouting America is a very affordable activity, but all can join regardless of their ability to pay. Membership is open year-round. An online application can be submitted by finding Pack 801 at www.beascout.org.
I have more questions!
Check out the extensive FAQ page at scouting.org for more information all things scouting!
For more information contact:
Cubmaster
Joy Taylor-Wade | (608) 358-2190| pack801madison@gmail.com