The Transition From Cub Scouts to Scouts BSA
A new experience
The transition from Cub Scouts to Scouts BSA (Boy Scouts) is a pretty big deal. The Scouts are “crossing over” to a new chapter in their Scouting endeavors, and many new experiences await them!
For many, this transition can be a little intimidating or confusing. There are a lot of differences between a Cub Scout Pack and a Scouts BSA Troop. You are strongly encouraged to continue reading the information on our New Scout pages to learn more.
What is a troop?
A troop is analogous to the term “pack” in that it’s the name given to the entire unit of Scouts and adult leaders (also called “Scouters”). We are all part of the troop.
One of the biggest differences between a troop and a pack is that the troop is youth-led. While the adult leaders are there to provide guidance and assistance, the troop is led by youth leaders elected by the Scouts themselves.
What is a patrol?
A pack is broken into multiple dens. In a similar manner, a troop is divided up into multiple patrols. However, that’s pretty much where the similarity ends.
Troops follow a concept called the Patrol Method. A patrol is a small group of Scouts that work together as they learn new skills and have new experiences. The group is led by Scouts within the patrol.
For some meetings and activities, our troop functions as a single unit. However, our goal is for the Scouts to work together in their smaller patrols, as directed by the BSA. This gives them the greatest opportunity to grow and learn from one another.
How do new Scouts become part of a patrol?
The way in which patrols are organized, and how new Scouts are introduced into the patrols, can be challenging. Different troops have different approaches. Here’s how our troop typically handles the situation.
When new Scouts join, they are typically placed in a temporary “New Scout” patrol. This is especially the case after a crossover ceremony, where a number of Scouts join the troop at one time. This typically happens late Winter or early Spring, but in reality, it can occur at any time.
During the first few months with the troop, an Assistant Scoutmaster will typically work with the patrol to help them with the transition. The adult leader will explain the Patrol Method, and talk about other aspects of the troop. The adult leader will also start working with the Scouts on some of their first rank requirements.
Sometime during the Summer, our troop usually attends a Summer Camp event. The Scouts in the New Scout Patrol are STRONGLY encouraged to attend camp! This is a great way for them to be introduced to Scouts BSA. It’s also a great way for them to get to know the other Scouts in their troop.
After Summer Camp, the Scouts will transition to one of the existing patrols. In situations where our existing patrols are growing too big, we may create additional patrols. However, they will be comprised of new and experienced Scouts. Regardless, at that point, the “New Scout Patrol” will no longer exist…until the next round of new Scouts.
NOTE: While we use the above as guidance, the number of new Scouts, as well as their age and experience in the BSA, may require a different approach. We’ll always do what seems best for the given situation.
Parents, you still have a roll, too!
Parent/guardian involvement in Scouts BSA is very different than in Cub Scouts. As mentioned above, the troop is youth-led. The adult leaders are there to help as needed. However, the Scouts are given the freedom to succeed (and sometimes fail) as they conduct their meetings, activities, and events.
Unlike a pack, when our troop goes on campouts or other similar events, the parents are no longer required to go along. Only registered and trained adult leaders accompany the Scouts. As mentioned above, the patrols are youth-led, and this applies to outings as well. The adult leaders will be there as well, of course. However, they do their best to let the Scouts take care of everything during the event and simply observe as much as possible. (Yes… It’s as difficult as it sounds!)
THAT SAID… THE TROOP STILL NEEDS HELP FROM OUR PARENTS!
As with any BSA unit, our troop cannot exist without the help of parents, guardians, and other adults associated with our current or former Scouts. (Often called “Scouters”) They are all volunteers! The troop cannot function without help from our parents and adult leaders.
So, while the troop is youth-led, we still need help from our Scout families. We strongly encourage our Scouts parents to consider helping as part of the adult leadership group. We can always use the help!