Hi, New to the Scouts Interested for Kids

Hi, I'm new to the Scouts. I am expressing interest for the children's sake. I am just wondering, what if your child is not that athletic? Would they still fit in with the Scouts? Is there more creative activities for the less-active type?

It depends what you mean by "not that athletic". No two group offer the same program or activities, but you generally won't a group that focuses on sports (e.g. all they do is play soccer). However, that is not to say the program is not physically active; Scouting is eligible for the Child Fitness tax credit for a reason. But there the programs generally included many non-physical activities. If I had to guess, I would say there is a 50:50 split between physical and non-physical activities.

I would suggest you visit your local Scout group and sit in on a couple of meetings to see how they run and the type of program they offer.


Allan.

Good day,
I know that in our group, we do a range of activities. They go hiking, camping, some canoeing... all physical activities.

During regular meetings, there are some "sports" such as dodge ball and other fun games in the gym. However, there is also a lot of time spent working on badges and doing more "technical" work (knots, learning outdoor skills, etc.)

Again, in my group, we do have some gifted atheletes. However, for the most part, they are non-athletic types who are there for the adventures, learning, leadership, and camaraderie.

I hope that helps,
Tom

Good idea to find a nearby group with the sections for your childrens' ages, talk to leaders and visit a meeting to see the activities they do. Prospective members are allowed to visit two meetings before deciding to join.

To find a group, http://www2.scouts.ca/dnn/Default.aspx? ... ca/dnn/pcc has a group finder which lets you contact groups suitably located who will get back to you. This may take awhile; another option is to phone 604-879-5721 and tell the operator you are interested in finding out more about Scouting opportunities.

Hope this helps.

Bob Gordon
25th Dunbar Heights Group
Vancouver

Bob has a good idea. I would check out 2-3 groups in your area (I assume you are an urban or suburban dweller and you'll have a few local groups). Ask for their plans (my Beaver Colony, ages 5-7) has a plan showing what we are doing most nights and which weekends we'll be active. Then, show up and try a night or two.

Please, let us know how it goes and what you think. Only with feedback can we improve!
Tom

Dear Vancouverparent:

The advice on this page is excellent. Check out a group, and see. Also, know that Scouting, regardless of what section your kids are at, has something for everyone. Each program has aspects of craft work, outdoor activities (really, emphasis tends to be here), learning about nature, physical fitness, service to and learning about your community, family, country, and our world, plus a whole lot more.

Scouting's goal is firstly for kids to have fun, but to do so in a way that turns them into amazing and well-rounded people, people who want to give back to their community.

I hope you check out a local group soon.

VancouverParent,

as a fellow Vancouverite, I'd be more than happy to help you find the right group to suit your needs. I've been part of a recruitment team in the past, so I know the various groups fairly well.

Send me a Private Message if you'd like.