Outdoors

Lessons learned in the outdoors teach youth skills that make them more self-reliant. They can explore canoe paths and hiking trails and complete challenges they first thought were beyond their ability. Attributes of good character become part of a youth as he or she learns to cooperate and meet outdoor challenges that may include extreme weather, difficult trails and portages, and dealing with nature’s unexpected circumstances.

Camping

Preventing Scouts from leaving campouts early

By Scouting magazine

In Scouter J.C.’s troop, parents often pick up their sons from weekend outings before the process of breaking camp begins. Here’s how to ensure your guys share and share alike.

Cooking

Easy Eats: Cold Comfort

By Scouting magazine

Crank out your own sumptuous brands of homemade ice cream, guaranteed to stir up the whole troop’s taste buds.

Health

Keep Your Child Safe This Summer

By Scouting magazine

Parents can avoid most summertime trips to the doctor’s office — or worse, the hospital — by following these simple safety precautions with their children.

Camping

Frog or Toad?

By Scouting magazine

Here’s how to help your Cub Scouts identify a frog or a toad, plus learn more about amphibians.

Cooking

Advice on safe food storage while camping

By Scouting magazine

Scouter B.W.M. is concerned that his Scouts are careless in the way they handle food. He asked how to teach safe food-handling and dishwashing procedures.

Backpacking & Hiking

Let's Hit the Trail

By Scouting magazine

An Illinois pack’s monthly hiking program helps younger boys become more confident and comfortable outdoors, making for an easier transition to Boy Scouting.

Camping

Knots to Know

By Scouting magazine

Knots and Boy Scouts go together like campfires and cobbler. Here’s how to tie three of the knots required to reach First Class, plus four more that can be very useful.