Magical Moments (cont.)
Spending time in the outdoors, learning about nature and the plants and animals with which we share this earth, and camping out lie at the heart of the Scouting experience. It is in this setting where the magic happens. A young Scout sees his or her first snake, finds deer tracks in the path, collects firewood and builds a fire for warmth, light and the reward of s’mores. A first fish is caught, an owl hoots live and in person, and Scouts share stories and thoughts together in their tent at night. I know that as the oldest child and having only had a sister, the time I spent in the tent with my Scout buddies was so important in my understanding of self and building life-long relationships. It is incumbent on all of us to help Scouts learn to camp, to attend weekend outings with the pack, troop, ship or crew. But not every Scout is ready to jump into camping.
Parents and adult leaders need to prepare young Cub Scouts for what may well be their first outdoor experiences. Indeed, I recently spoke with a mother of two boys interested in Scouting in part because neither she nor her husband had any experience in the outdoors themselves and they all wanted to learn about nature and try camping. It is not unusual for Arrow of Light Scouts to be reticent about camping when they cross over into a Scouts BSA unit, especially if they have not been camping with the pack. They don’t know what to expect, and giving up the safety of their bedroom for a tent seems scary. Without the support of parents and leaders and the trust that can be fostered between the Scout and the unit and the tent buddy, a young Scout may not take the plunge. It is particularly important that Scouts new to Scouting and new to a troop or ship experience camping in a safe setting prior to attending summer camp. It helps with the homesickness many may experience as they spend time away from home and family for the first time. Please know that adult leaders are experienced and ready to deal with homesickness and routinely help Scouts through their first homesick moments.
Preparation can begin at home. Obtaining or borrowing a tent and setting up in the backyard for an overnight outside is helpful. Shopping together for camping gear and trying it out, learning how it works can ease fear of something new and unknown for the Scout. It is not a given that parents know what a Scout needs in camp. Certainly, a change of clothing appropriate for the weather is a given, but a Scout needs more. A sleeping bag fitted to the person and rated for the season, rain gear just in case of inclement weather, a good flashlight and even a lantern to throw more light in the tent, a water bottle, mess kit with silverware for dining, a sleeping pad or cot for comfort, toiletries, insect repellent and a first aid kit are essentials. The Scout should have the opportunity to pick out and practice with their gear. Sleeping outdoors is a new experience as they listen to the night sounds, hear the wind blowing and trees creaking, hear crickets in the dark and the groundswell of birds singing as the sun rises.
The next step is camping with the unit. For Cub Scout camping, parents are usually present which makes for an easier transition to the outdoor setting for the Scout. Parents need to resist the temptation to parent their children and encourage their youth to solve problems and figure things out for themselves if they are to develop some independence in the outdoor setting. For troops and ships, unit leaders must help prepare their Scouts for the outing, talking through lists of essentials for the trip, helping them learn to pack and stow gear, pairing up Scouts as tent buddies, assisting in meal planning and planning those activities that will be fun in camp. Parents should know that tent buddies are paired based upon age so that each Scout will tent with someone within 2 years of the same age. They are more likely to have something in common including their experience in the outdoors. After a weekend outing or two, a Scout is much more likely to enjoy an extended summer camp experience, finding their own magical moments. Parents who may not be familiar with camping themselves should ask for guidance from unit leaders as they select and assemble gear, learn about the activities, meals and other elements planned for the outing so they may help their youth prepare and feel comfortable. Youth of any age benefit from the encouragement and reassurance of their parents that they can succeed in the outing and have an enjoyable time.
Camping lies at the heart of the Scouting experience and we are fortunate to have wonderful facilities and beautiful tracts of land in our Bay Lakes Council camp properties where our youth can develop a genuine appreciation for nature and the skill it takes to enjoy it. It is not too late to take advantage of our camping programs this spring and summer, and there are opportunities for summer camp for every individual. If your unit is not camping, you can reach out to the Council and we will help you connect with another unit that is camping. For Scouts BSA youth, provisional camp weeks allow individuals to join with other individuals to form a “troop” and enjoy camp. Parents, make sure your scout can discover magical moments of their own and help them to experience the great outdoors.
As always, I thank you for your commitment to Scouting, for the faith and trust you place in your leaders and units every day throughout the year. I’m looking forward to seeing you down the trail and perhaps greeting you in camp. I know you will find magic there just as I know your youth will discover the magic in their own way.
Paul Shrode
psshrode@aol.com