Whether you are new to Scouting, or are making the move from
Webelos, joining Boy Scouts can feel a lot like you
have your shoes on the wrong feet. Everything seems new. Your fellow
Scouts are much older, and it is sometimes hard to keep track of all
the things you are hearing about. Relax... this is normal
and every Scout feels the same way when they first join the Troop. Try
not to get frustrated, confused, or stressed out. Just
have fun! You will get the hang of things quickly and fit
right in.
There are some things you can do to help make your transition
go more smoothly.
- Ask lots of questions. Find a patrol
leader, any older Scout, the Scoutmaster or Assistant
Scoutmaster (they do not bite) and ask away. There
is no such thing as a dumb question.
- Get your parents involved. Have them read the
"Parents Page" (click here), and challenge them to earn
their parent's rank.
- Get involved in your patrol. You may be placed in a
"New Scout" patrol soon after your join the troop. This is
intended to group other Scouts who may be feeling the same way
you do in one group so you can learn together. You
will stay in this patrol until you are moved into another patrol
a few months after you join. The older Scouts
are responsible for making you feel welcome and helping you
learn to become Boy Scouts.
- Check the troop website often. It has information on
just about everything. Spend time learning about
merit badges and rank advancement. You will have the
chance to earn your Scout rank soon after joining
the troop. Then you will begin working on your Tenderfoot
rank. Many of the requirements for Tenderfoot
are also requirements for your Second Class rank,
so it can go very quickly for you if you try hard.
With each rank, you will feel more and more like a veteran.
By the time you reach First Class, you will be
helping new Scouts yourself.
- Earn your first merit badge.
- Go on your first campout... Boy Scout campouts are usually a
lot more fun than when you were in Webelos. You get to do
new and exciting things especially for Boy Scouts.
- Make a plan to go to Summer Camp. There you will have
a chance for even more exciting and challenging adventures.
Remember, you are older now and you will need to take some
responsibility for your Boy Scout experience. It is up
to you...
Check out these links:
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Registration