Boy Scouts is a great first step in the scouting program. As with all great adventures, it is preparation that will determine whether you have a smooth or stressful experience. If you’re beginning with your first troop meeting or assisting your child in getting prepared, this all-in-one boy scout preparedness checklist will keep you safe from any and all surprises.
Scout Essentials for Beginners
“Be Prepared” is no hollow slogan! It’s a way of thinking that permeates the entire scouting experience. Scouts who are well prepared, thrive, lead and grow whether they are in the wilderness or serving the community. As participants become prepared, they gain confidence, decrease anxiety and can concentrate on learning.
This is the New Boy Scout Gear List
It is important to know what to pack for boy scouts before they go to their first outdoor event. Start with:
- Uniform: A Scout’s uniform that is fitted properly with troop numbers and rank patches in place.
- Handbook: Take your Bible: The Boy Scout Handbook to any meeting — it is your guide.
- Backpack: A lightweight and durable backpack for short hikes and meetings.
- First Aid Kit: A personal first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes and blister pads
- Notebook and Pen: To take notes during lessons, to chart progress and to write down merit badge requirements
- Water Bottle: Reusable and marked with your name
- Flashlight or Headlamp: Get extra batteries,
For Camping and Overnight Trips
The checklist expands greatly when the troop goes outside. Additional items that are important include a sleeping bag suitable for the anticipated temperatures, a rain poncho or waterproof jacket, a multi-tool or pocket knife (with permission), rope for knot practice, sunscreen and insect repellent. For all trips check the forecast before going, and dress in one extra layer than you think you will require.
The Mental Preparedness Side
Here are some being prepared scouting tips. Scouts will find it of great value to read the agenda before coming to meetings, advance some of the merit badge requirements, and familiarize themselves with the time, location, and rules of troop meetings. Parents are very instrumental here – reminding their scouts to prepare, reading handbooks with them, asking them what they learned after each meeting and etc.
The Pre-meeting Routine
The pre-meeting routine only takes about 10 minutes, and it removes last minute stress. The evening before, set up the uniform, pack the handbook and notebook, refill the water bottle and go over the agenda for the meeting (if it will be available). A little practice that helps scouts learn to practice a skill that will help them throughout their lives.
Final Thoughts
The key to Preparedness is intention. A good checklist helps new scouts to get confident in participating in the activities, learning the material, and having fun. Keep this list for books and add activities to suit your troop’s needs, then pass it on to other families who are just beginning.