Talking Points

Purpose: To relate the benefits of Scouting to multiple points of view.

Audience: Principals, Parents, Religious Leaders, General Public

Principals

• Scout leaders reinforce school values and priorities on homework – “school comes first”
• Reinforces school program – boys work on achievements related to what they study in school
• Reinforces community service, often to their schools
• Sets Boundaries and Expectations
• Structure for positive peer influence (Troop Guides, Den Chiefs, etc.)
• Community involvement

Parents

• Affordable to parents
• Program offers flexible schedule so boys still participate in arts and sports
• Constructive use of time
• All boys get opportunity to do and learn leadership role
• Promotes individualism and teamwork at the same time (i.e. Pinewood Derby, setting up a campsite)
• Opens up an alternative channel to talk to boys (e.g., in car on way to campout)
• Provides structure for increased interaction for positive family support and communication

Religious Leaders

• Scouting provides a context to discuss all faith traditions
• Teach youth how to have a sense of purpose
• Teach youth how to have a sense of a positive future to live into.

All

• Scouting provides 6 of 8 at risk elements of the 40 Developmental Assets Healthy Development Model
• Lots of positive reinforcement (they are all winners)
• Open to all boys
• Programs that are useful to life training
• Builds boys self-esteem and confidence with age appropriate programs
• Safe and nurturing environment
• Multiple adult role models
• Gives boys direction and purpose
• Year-round program