11 Year Old Scouting Program Tyler Brinkerhoff 11 year old scout leader Cross Hollow Stake

Today’s Objectives What are the purposes and goals of the 11 Year Old Scout Program? What are the responsibilities of the 11 Year Old Scout Leader? A few strategies for success.

Sources of Information WWW.lds.org --> Resources, -->Primary, --> Scouting in Primary, --> Eleven Year Old Scouts. There is a green box on the right hand side that says, “Scouting Handbook for Church Units in the United States” This is a link to this handbook which gives in depth information about the 11 year old scouting program.

Sources of Information ldsscouting.org On the left hand side of this webpage is a menu where you will find, “11 Year Old Scouts” section. This is not as official site of the church, but has great resources of suggestions and helps. There are links with schedules for completing all the requirements through First Class.

Purposes of the 11 Year Old Scouting Program The scouting program of the 11-year olds incorporates the standard aims of scouting—building character, citizenship, and fitness– with the primary purposes of helping boys live the gospel and to prepare to receive the Aaronic Priesthood. It is not a Priesthood program but a Priesthood-preparation program. ldsscouting.org

Purposes of the 11 year old scouting program Scouting prepares eleven-year-old boys to receive the Aaronic Priesthood and transition into the deacons quorum and Young Men program. Scouting can help them increase in confidence, testimony, brotherhood and understanding of Aaronic Priesthood duties. Church Handbook

Purposes of the 11 year old program Teaches the boys character, respect, and citizenship Gives the boys leadership opportunities. Teaches the boys to work together , and help each other, as a troop or quorum. Helps the boys works towards the accomplishment of meaningful goals.

President Gordon B. Hinckley has stated: "I love the Scouting movement President Gordon B. Hinckley has stated: "I love the Scouting movement. If every boy in America knew and observed the Scout Oath, we would do away with most of the jails and prisons in this country. This program builds boys, builds their futures, leads them on the right path so they can make something of their lives.  Every man or woman who helps a boy along the road of life not only does a great thing for him but does a great thing for society as a whole."

Responsibilities of the 11 Year Old Scout Leader Receive the necessary training, such as Youth Protection, and register with BSA as the 11 year old leader. Work and coordinate with the Primary Presidency. Communicate concerning the incoming boys. Coordinate with the Weblos Leaders to have the incoming boys attend an activity and troop meeting. Meet with the boys and their parents as the enter the 11 Year Old Scout Troop. Attend monthly round table meeting for continued training. Attend Key Scouter Meeting to coordinate with the ward scout committee. Plan and organize weekly troop meeting, activities and campouts.

Responsibilities of the 11 Year Old Leader. Help the boys complete requirements and progress through rank advancements. Keep records of their advancements. Obtain necessary tour permits for campouts and other required activities. Make sure the health forms are current and complete. Assist the boys in their Faith in God requirements Give the boys leadership and responsibility opportunities. Be a good example and provide teaching opportunities.

Goals of the 11 Year Old Scouting Program Help the boys achieve and complete the rank of First Class by the time they turn 12 . Complete 3 Campouts per year to meet the requirements in the first three rank advancements. Give the boys a positive beginning experience in scouting that will help them progress through the scouting program.

Strategies for success Make planning and organization a priority. A) Remember , “proper prior planning prevents poor performance” B) Plan the method and order in which the requirements will be completed. C) Include the details as needed for each activity or troop meeting.

Strategies for Success Communicate with the boys and parents: A) Let the parents know what you will be doing. Give them calendars, e-mails, text messages, etc. Find the most effective means of communicating. B) Communicate any assignments that need to be completed. C) Find out and resolve any concerns of the boys or the parents.

Strategies for Success Record Keeping and Tracking: A) Use charts to track records. B) Have the boys bring their books. C) Keep current on records to help them be ready for Board’s of Review and progress through advancements.

Strategies for Success Use resources for help. A) Use assistant leaders for help. B) Use other’s with specific skills for teaching. C) Possible combine with other troops or the Stake to do more challenging requirements. This fall our stake had a mini day camp where we worked on the lashing requirements with someone who was well versed in lashings.

REMEMBER As leaders, we need to keep our sights focused on the purposes and goals of the 11 year old scout program. As leaders we need to learn our duty and then do our best to fulfill those duties. As leaders we need to work in an effective and organized manner in order to be successful.

REMEMBER To make this first year of scouting enjoyable and fun. Remember to “ wag more, bark less” Work with each boy according his individual needs. Remember each boy is a beloved son of our Heavenly Father and remember his divine potential.