Cool Activities to Get Youth Interested & Involved In Scouting!

There are many reasons why boys (and now girls!) decide that they want to participate in the Scouting program.  They may have been encouraged by their parents, expressed interest because they have friends in Scouting, or just wanted to become involved in a new activity.  But the biggest reason youth get into Scouting and stay in Scouting is because they want to have fun.  And, whether they are an 8 year-old Wolf or 14 year-old First Class Scout, a young person who isn’t having fun is not likely to stay in Scouting.  Thus, a major goal for every unit should be to plan “cool” activities that will get kids interested in Scouting and keep them interested in Scouting for years to come.

Camping overnights (the stereotypical Scouting trip) is an obvious activity that appeals to many, but it is certainly not the be-all and end-all of the program (and should not be!)  Outdoor activities, such as day hikes and fishing excursions, and indoor activities, such as a trip to a museum or rock-climbing facility are all great potential options.  Outings to sporting events can also be a big hit, and many of the professional and semi-professional local teams have special designated nights and/or group rates that make such outings more financially feasible.  Additionally, there are a myriad of events and activities available throughout the year at the council’s camps that are both great opportunities for fun and introduce young Scouts to the camps and get them excited about returning during the summertime.

Convincing boys and girls to join and remain in Scouting can sometimes be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be.  The best way to keep interest high and to keep Scouts (particularly younger Scouts) coming back for more is to plan a variety of fun activities that appeal to all the members of a pack or troop.  Ideas for specific activities to plan for your unit (like the Rutgers University Geology Museum and Jockey Hollow), and scheduled events at council camps, can be found on the council’s website (ppcbsa.org).  Scouting can provide so many positive benefits to boys and girls, but more than anything else, it should be fun!

A reminder to take these tips and make your recruitment events fun!  Free flyers and recruitment materials/ support is provided by the dollars donated to the Friends of Scouting campaign.  Take a look and order what’s provided to you at: https://ppcbsa.org/membership/currentmembers/resources/

Submitted By: Ryan O’Connor, Membership Committee Vice Chair