The Adventure of Scouting
Scouting is a game with
A purpose.
Fun is the game.
Values are the purpose.
Learning is the process.
It is easier to build a boy than to repair a man.
A Scoutmaster trains boys to be leaders,
makes available to them the resources
and guidance they need to lead well,
and then steps into the background
and lets them do their jobs.
Boys joining the Boy Scouts of America have high expectations. They can hardly wait to go on hikes, sleep in tents, and cook meals in the open. They are eager to master the skills of Scouting and to put into practice what they are learning. They want to share experiences with their friends. They anticipate challenge, adventure, and recognition for their achievements. Boy Scouting revolves around a boy-lead troop. The boys themselves take on leadership positions in order to plan troop activities, run meetings, organize adventures, and take advantage of opportunities that fit their interests and needs.
Scouting is a values-based program. Scouting offers boys an environment in which everyone can feel secure both physically and emotionally. That sense of security comes from the adult leaders. A goal of the Boy Scouts of America is to help boys develop into honorable men. Every scouting activity moves boys toward three basic aims: character development, citizenship training, and mental and physical fitness.
The Boy Scouts of America uses eight fundamental methods to meet boys’ hope for fun and adventure, and to achieve Scouting’s goals. A Scout troop functions best when all eight methods are employed. These fundamental methods are: the ideals, the patrol method, the outdoors, advancement, association with adults, personal growth, leadership development, and the uniform.
All Parents of Troop 332 should read and understand the Troop Policies and Procedures for Scouts. The Parent Policies and Procedures are an addendum to the Troop policies and Procedures and includes further explanations on how the troop is organized and run. Also included are policies that are unique to parents/leaders.