Methods of Scouting
Methods are how Scouting pursues the three Aims.
- Ideals
- Each Scout commits himself to the personal behavior guides and standards in the Scout
Motto, the Slogan, the Oath and the Law
- Patrols
- Patrols give Scouts experience in teamwork, democracy and leadership.
- Outdoors
- Scouting emphasizes outdoors activities which foster an appreciation of nature and our
ecology. Along the way, Scouts practice and learn new skills and develop confidence in
their own abilities to cope with obstacles. Scouting is Outing!
- Advancement
- The advancement program provides Scouts with a ladder of skills to climb at his own
pace. On the way up, he has many opportunities to learn and to be recognized for his
achievements.
- Personal growth
- All of the other methods contribute to the personal growth of a Scout through
experience. The quest for growth is a method, too.
- Adult association
- Adult leaders, male and female, provide an example to Scouts of the high character they
should strive for in their personal growth.
- Leadership development
- Making boys get leadership experiences is one of the most valuable things Scouting does.
- Uniform
- The uniform reminds a Scout of who he is and what is expected of him. It identifies him
as part of a patrol, troop, council and worldwide youth movement. He can take pride in
being a Scout, and in the achievements shown on his uniform and sash. Even neighborhood
gangs recognize the importance of wearing a uniform, their colors.
