Starting your Scouting journey is more than just signing up for an activity—it’s joining a time-tested movement that builds leadership, character, confidence, and resilience in young people. Whether your child is a curious first-grader, a teenager ready to take on new challenges, or you’re a parent wondering where to begin, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started.
What Is Scouting?
Scouting is a structured, values-based program that empowers youth through hands-on experiences in the outdoors, leadership, teamwork, and community service. Run by Scouts BSA in the United States (and by similar organizations worldwide), the program is divided by age group and offers different levels of advancement as Scouts grow.
Scouting Levels by Age
| Program | Age/Grade | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Lions | Kindergarten (age 5-6) | Fun, family-based activities |
| Tigers | Grade 1 (age 6-7) | Basic skills, teamwork |
| Wolf & Bear Cubs | Grades 2–3 (ages 7–9) | Outdoor fun, responsibility, values |
| Webelos | Grades 4–5 (ages 9–11) | Leadership, adventure, transition to Scouts |
| Scouts BSA | Ages 11–17 | Merit badges, leadership, service, high adventure |
| Venturing/Sea Scouts | Ages 14–21 | Specialized programs in adventure and leadership |
How to Join Scouting
Step 1: Find a Local Unit
Use the BeAScout.org website to search by zip code and find Cub Scout packs or Scout troops near you.
Step 2: Attend an Info Session or Meeting
Most units welcome new families to observe a meeting or join a special welcome event. It’s a great way to meet leaders, ask questions, and see if the group fits your child’s personality and interests.
Step 3: Register
Online registration is fast and easy. You’ll pay the annual membership fee, and your local unit may charge additional activity dues or uniform costs.
Step 4: Get the Uniform and Handbook
Uniforms help create a sense of pride and belonging. Your Scout’s handbook will be their guide for rank advancements and skills development.
What Will Your Scout Do?
Scouting is all about learning by doing. Throughout the year, your Scout will:
- Go camping, hiking, or fishing
- Earn adventure loops or merit badges in areas like first aid, robotics, citizenship, and environmental science
- Volunteer in their community
- Learn leadership through troop positions
- Work toward rank advancements, with clear milestones for personal growth
Whether it’s pitching a tent for the first time or leading a food drive, every activity is designed to build confidence and character.
Benefits of Scouting
| Skill/Value | How Scouting Builds It |
|---|---|
| Leadership | Leading groups, planning projects, earning rank advancements |
| Responsibility | Setting goals, meeting deadlines, following through |
| Outdoor Skills | Camping, survival, navigation, conservation |
| Teamwork | Working in patrols and crews |
| Service & Citizenship | Volunteering, learning about civic duty |
| Confidence | Overcoming challenges, speaking publicly, setting goals |
Is Scouting Right for Your Child?
If your child enjoys:
- Trying new things
- Making friends
- Spending time outdoors
- Learning practical skills
- Setting and achieving goals
Then yes—Scouting is the perfect match.
Plus, Scouting is now fully inclusive. Both boys and girls can participate in Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA in separate gender-specific troops.
FAQs
How much does Scouting cost?
National fees range from $80–$100/year, plus local dues and uniform costs. Many units offer scholarships or fundraising to help cover costs.
Do parents need to volunteer?
Not required—but highly encouraged. Scouting thrives when families get involved.
Is there a lot of time commitment?
Most units meet weekly or biweekly, with occasional weekend events or campouts.
Can kids join at any age?
Yes! Scouts can jump in at any level appropriate for their age and still thrive.
