Parent Resources

Supporting your Scout on their journey

Welcome to Scouting!

As a Scout parent, you're embarking on an adventure alongside your child. Your involvement is key to their success and enjoyment in the program. This page provides resources to help you understand Scouting and support your child's journey.

Your Role as a Scout Parent

Parents play a vital role in the Scouting program. Here are some ways you can support your Scout:

Frequently Asked Questions

The basic equipment needs vary by program level:

Cub Scouts: Uniform, handbook, and basic personal gear for day activities.

Scouts BSA: Uniform, handbook, and camping gear (sleeping bag, mess kit, appropriate clothing, etc.).

Unit leaders can provide detailed lists based on upcoming activities. Many items can be borrowed before purchasing, especially for Scouts BSA as they begin.

Cub Scouts: Typically 2-4 hours per week, including a weekly den meeting and a monthly pack meeting. Occasional weekend activities.

Scouts BSA: Weekly troop meetings (1.5-2 hours), plus one weekend activity per month. Summer camp is typically one week per year.

Parent involvement varies. In Cub Scouts, parents are expected to attend with their child. In Scouts BSA, parents are needed for transportation and volunteer roles but don't need to attend all meetings.

Annual costs include:

  • Registration fee: $72 per year
  • One-time joining fee: $25 (new Scouts only)
  • Unit dues: varies by unit (typically $40-$60 per year)
  • Uniform: $70-$100 (one-time purchase that may need replacement as the Scout grows)
  • Handbook: $15-$20
  • Activity fees: varies by activity (camping trips, special events, etc.)

Financial assistance is available - please speak with a unit leader if needed.

BSA uses Scoutbook, an online advancement tracking system that allows parents to see their Scout's progress. You'll receive access information when your Scout joins.

For Cub Scouts, parents work directly with their child on advancement requirements and can track progress in the handbook and Scoutbook.

For Scouts BSA, advancement is primarily tracked by the Scout and the troop's advancement chair, but parents can view progress through Scoutbook.

Visit Scoutbook.scouting.org to access the system.

There are many ways to volunteer, from occasional help to registered leadership roles:

  • Den Leader or Assistant Den Leader (Cub Scouts)
  • Cubmaster or Assistant Cubmaster (Cub Scouts)
  • Scoutmaster or Assistant Scoutmaster (Scouts BSA)
  • Committee Member (all units)
  • Merit Badge Counselor (Scouts BSA)
  • Event volunteer (help with specific activities)
  • Driver/chaperone for outings

All registered adult volunteers must complete Youth Protection Training and background checks.

Youth Protection

The BSA has comprehensive Youth Protection policies to create a safe environment for all Scouts. Key points include:

  • Two-deep leadership at all activities
  • No one-on-one contact between adults and youth
  • Separate accommodations for adults and Scouts
  • Privacy respected for all personal activities
  • Appropriate attire for all activities
  • Constructive discipline only
  • Hazing and bullying prohibited

All adult leaders must complete Youth Protection Training. Parents are encouraged to review BSA's Youth Protection materials and discuss personal safety with their children.

Youth Protection Resources

Communication

Our units use various methods to keep families informed:

Please ensure your contact information is current and check communications regularly to stay informed about upcoming activities and important information.

Contact Us with Questions