Ideals

The ideals of Scouting are spelled out in the Scout Oath, the Scout Law, the Scout motto, and the Scout slogan. Scouts measure themselves against these ideals and continually try to improve. The goals are high. Striving to meet Scouting’s gives Scouts some control over who they become.

Patrols

The patrol method establishes small groups in which Scouts learn to relate to, rely on, and be accountable to each other. Through this experience in group living, it places responsibility on young shoulders and teaches Scouts how to accept it. It models citizenship as patrols determine troop activities through their elected representatives.

Outdoor Programs

Scouting is designed to take place outdoors. It is in the outdoor setting that Scouts share responsibilities, learn to live with one another, and where the skills and activities practiced at troop meetings come alive with purpose. It removes the invisible convenience of modern life and replaces it with direct insight into the resources, preparation, knowledge, and work required to sustain us. Being in nature helps Scouts gain an appreciation and sense of stewardship for it.

Advancement

Advancement is a method that presents a series of surmountable obstacles and provides steps to overcome them. Scouts plan their own advancement and progress at their own pace. They are rewarded for each achievement, which helps them gain self-confidence. Rank advancement teaches Scouts skills in two phases: first practical, then leadership. The merit badge program encourages independent learning, resourcefulness, and self-determination. The steps in the advancement system help a Scout become self-reliant and learn to help others.

Association with Adults

Scouts learn by seeing how adults conduct themselves. Scout leaders can be positive role models for the members of their troops. A Scoutmaster or ASM who listens to the Scouts, encourages them, and takes a sincere interest in them can make a profound difference in their lives.

Personal Growth

As Scouts plan their activities and progress toward their goals, they experience personal growth. The Good Turn concept is a major part of the personal growth method of Scouting. Young people grow as they participate in community service projects and do Good Turns for others. Perhaps no device is so successful in developing a basis for personal growth as the daily Good Turn. Frequent personal conferences with their Scoutmaster help each Scout to determine their growth toward Scouting’s aims.

Leadership Development

The Scouting program encourages Scouts to learn and practice leadership skills. Every Scout has the opportunity to participate in both shared and total leadership situations. Understanding the concepts of leadership and becoming a servant leader helps a Scout accept the leadership role of others and guides them towards participatory citizenship and character development.

Uniform

Scouting is an action program. Wearing the uniform is an action that shows each Scout’s commitment to the aims and purposes of Scouting. The uniform gives the Scout identity in a worldwide brother- and sisterhood of youth who believe in the same ideals. The uniform is practical attire for Scout activities and provides a way for Scouts to wear the badges that show what they have accomplished.