Getting Started

How to get started

The best way to get started is to visit a unit or two. Almost all of your youth's scouting experience will be a part of a unit, so their scouting journey really starts there.

To decide which unit(s) to visit, first be aware that all units have age limits. Cub Scouts is open to youth in grades K through 5, while Scouts BSA is open to youth ages 11 to 17. Also, some units have gender requirements. While the programs are open to both boys and girls, individual units may not be open to both genders. Most Cub Scout Packs have chosen to include girls, but not all. And all Scout BSA troops are single-gender.

Once you've narrowed your attention to units open to your child or children, reach out to the units directly and ask to come visit. All units love having visitors, but you should reach out to confirm meeting times and locations. (COVID is forcing units to constantly change their meeting logistics.)

Once you've visited a unit or two, listen to your child's preferences. If they are excited about a particular unit or already have friends there, they will probably be happy with the program. If they are equally excited about all the units they visited, then choose the one that will be easiest on the household. (There will be a lot of meetings, so things like meeting times and locations will matter in the long run.)

Finally, joining a unit is easy. The unit will have you fill out an application, either on paper or online, and pay the yearly dues. You may want to discuss topics like uniforms and family participation with the unit leaders, but once you submit your application and pay the dues, you're a member. Have fun!