Welcome! Parents approach scouting in many different ways. Some parents are veterans with older children or were scouts themselves. Others are completely new to it but join on the recommendation of family and friends or simply because of the Boy Scouts’ reputation.
There is always a mix of uncertainty and adventure in the new parents we deal with, and sharing some perspective can help reduce the uncertainty and increase the adventure.
You’re not alone
Each Lion or Tiger scout must attend every event with an adult partner (his parent or guardian) throughout the entire first year. It’s a great way for families to get to know each other, and you’ll quickly find out who else shares your questions – and who has the answers. Additionally, the Cubmaster and other parents are happy to lend advice or answer questions.
The activities are simple
Tiger and Lion activities are age-appropriate and non-demanding, meaning they are generally simple and easy to plan. Even if the activities don’t work out as intended, your son will be happy to see his friends and be with you. A large part of the program is communicated through role modeling, following the customs (such as uniform wear), and learning respectful behavior. Sometimes the boys are captivated, and sometimes they’re too wound up to listen. It’s ok, and it all works out.
Sticker shock
Pack 680 tries to be up front about the program’s cost, but this can overwhelm new parents. Between patches, pins, awards, campsite fees, derby kits, our banquet, registration, and insurance, the full cost per scout is about $200 per year. We charge about 30% of the cost as dues and try to fundraise the rest. This doesn’t even include the uniform and handbook (another $75-$100). During years where we have motivated families, we have been able to fundraise much more than the minimum, easing costs across the pack. If you got sticker shock when you tried to join, help out by becoming one of those motivated sellers! We also have a used uniform bank and a policy that no scout is turned away due to cost (meaning some or all costs can be paid by the pack based on need).
The Lion program (kindergarteners) is a junior version of scouting designed to ease parents into it and avoid some of the sticker shock. The uniform is a t-shirt, the handbook is cheaper, and Lions don’t have to sell popcorn. But they still have 100% of the fun!
In a couple of years, it will be your pack
It doesn’t take long to attain “veteran” status, and the people in positions of responsibility as den leaders and committee members now will be mostly gone in 2-3 years. The pack will need many of you to make the pack go. Most jobs have a short learning curve. All that’s needed is an open mind.
One of you will be the den leader
This is the first challenge every new den will face. Without a den leader, there can be no den. When a lion or tiger den is composed of all new parents, the last thing anyone wants to do is volunteer for a new and unfamiliar job with the potential to impact the development of the boys. Sometimes a game of chicken ensues.
A den leader’s primary requirement is motivation and positive attitude (and often an assistant or co-leader). The Boy Scouts of America will provide the training, experience, and materials needed to make you successful.
It really could be you!
Resources
- Cub Scout program overview at cubscouts.org
- Tiger den leader welcome page at scouting.org
- Tiger rank requirements at usscouts.org
Do you have other questions or concerns? Contact us and leave feedback!