Leader Advice and Inspiration

Instilling pride in a new troop and its patrols

When Scoutmaster C.R. asked for help in motivating his young Scouts, readers noted that unit pride starts with adult leaders setting the right example while providing a program full of “gee whiz” activities.

Campground Cooking

Winners of Great Taste

The top entries in our outdoor recipe contest will please even the pickiest eaters on any camp-out.

Backpacking & Hiking

The Signal Mirror: A Low-Tech Lifesaver

Any flat, shiny surface can be used to get the attention of potential rescuers, but a specially designed reflective signaling device works best.

Character Building

A Week with No TV

How did families in a Cub Scout den fare during their participation in National TV-Turnoff Week? First, they survived. Second, they even enjoyed it!

Camping

Butterfly…or Moth?

Knowing the difference between these colorful winged insects is a first step in helping kids discover the fun of studying nature.

Leader Advice and Inspiration

Ways a troop can economize on long road trips

In our October issue, Scoutmaster J.C.H. asked for ideas on saving money during a troop high adventure trip. Reader suggestions included staying at military bases, college campuses, or Scout council camps.

Cub Scout Leadership

Let the (Pack Meeting) Games Begin!

Contests and competitions that Cub Scouts enjoy the most are often surprisingly uncomplicated, with inexpensive materials, rules taking less than a minute to explain, and minimal setup.

Leader Advice and Inspiration

A convincing case for boy-run troops

When Scout M.S. noted in our September issue that adults in his troop won’t let junior leaders make decisions, readers responded with some strategies for realizing the important goal of boy-led troop leadership.