There is a danger zone during the Arrow of Light to Scout transition phase, and it is a factor on both the Cub Scout and Scouts BSA side of the fence. From a Cub Scout perspective, this is a time when some youth decide to leave Scouting. Why? There are lots of reasons, such as: 1) tired of/bored with Cub Scouts, 2) involved with other activities such as sports or band and 3) believe they’ve now experienced all Scouting has to offer.
How can we overcome these objections/perceptions? Luckily, the answer is the same for all three! While the Scouts are Arrow of Light, it is the responsibility of the pack and their den/patrol leader to explain the Scouts BSA program and give the Arrow of Light families enough exposure to Scouts BSA so they can see the differences between the programs. 5th graders can interact with older Scouts via the den chief position, working with troops to teach Arrow of Light Adventures, and camping with troops at a district AOL weekend or Scout camporee. Often, just seeing a Scouts BSA troop in action, setting up camp, cooking for themselves and organizing themselves under the youth leadership structure is a real “eye-opener” for Cub Scout parents who aren’t familiar with Scouts BSA.
Arrow of Light leaders can actively help their Scouts through the Scouting Adventure and plan a selection of troops to visit. Additionally, leaders can invite pack alumni (youth and parents) to a meeting where current Arrow of Lights and their parents can ask questions. This is a time when myths such as “you can’t play sports AND be in Scouting” can be dispelled by Scouts who have done both successfully. The key is to have a plan to guide the 5th grade Scouts AND their parents to learn about and engage with several Scouts BSA troops.
From the Scouts BSA perspective, a new family to the troop, even if they come from a Cub Scout background, is still new to Scouts BSA. It’s another time of transition, of wanting to fit into an established group. Many troops utilize “Trail to First Class” patrols or other such “new Scout” structures to help Scouts progress through the early ranks, and to provide a guided path during their first months with the troop. Here again, a “new member coordinator” may be very helpful. New parents have lots of questions easily answered by a veteran Scouting mom/dad, such as what REALLY needs to go on a camping trip, etc. Besides “words of wisdom,” another parent can offer perspective and words of encouragement, explain some of the jargon, and just help a new family feel someone is looking out for them. The personal touch can mean a lot!
Whether Cub Scouts or Scouts BSA, our goal is for all new Scouts and their families to feel at home and part of our Scouting family. What better opportunity to live “a Scout is Friendly, Helpful, Courteous, and Kind” than in welcoming our new friends.