Orientation

Scouting can be a confusing world to new parents — even those whose sons have joined our Troop just after transitioning from Webelos. They are often surprised to discover how different the Boy Scout program is from Cub Scouts. While Cub Scouting is an activity-based program put on by and run by adult volunteers, Boy Scouting is an outdoor-oriented program organized and run by the Scouts under the direction of trained Adult Leaders. The Boy Scout program is designed to allow Scouts to participate in challenging and rewarding activities, while at the same time develop leadership skills and character qualities that will serve them throughout their lives.

Despite these differences, the key to success in any Scouting program, or for any Scout, is proper adult leadership and guidance. Typically, adult leadership comes from Scout Parents. It is too much to expect one or two adults to do all the work. Two adults on a campout with 20 or more boys cannot result in proper supervision and instruction of the boys. For this reason, we ask that you volunteer to assist the Troop. This could take the form of occasional specific help, such as helping to organize a particular campout (or program element in a Troop Meeting), serving as ongoing fundraising chair, or holding some other Committee position. You pick the level of your involvement: once per year, once per month, or weekly. Some of the reasons that parents hesitate to volunteer are that they are not familiar with the operation of the Troop, or they feel that a major time commitment is required. Feel free to attend any or all of the Troop activities and volunteer to whatever level you feel appropriate. The success of the program depends on your participation. Just as importantly, the success of your son’s participation in the program depends on your participation.

As a parent, you have another important role in the Scout Program. You serve as your son’s chief advisor and coach. No one can take your place for teaching your son leadership, self-reliance, and responsibility. Closely follow your son’s progress with the Troop. Encourage participation in the program and outings. Recognize your son’s advancement. Become familiar with the operation of the Troop and use this information to help teach your son his responsibilities as a member of the Troop.

Most importantly, Troop 3:16 looks upon its parents to be role-models for inspiring our Scouts to make Christian and Scout values a way of life.

See Also

• Who We Are
• Scouting's Aims and Goals
• Outdoor Program
• Advancement Program
• Parent Responsibilities
• Parent Involvement
• Parents at Meetings
• Parents on Campouts
• Community Rewards Program