If you’re a mom of a boy between the ages of 5 and 15, chances are you’ve heard of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) or Scouting BSA, as it is now called, but maybe you’re not sure if it’s right for your family. Maybe you’re wondering what your son would even do in Scouts or what benefits it brings. Or maybe you’ve just heard whispers about how great the program is and are curious about how much time and money you’ll have to fork over for your son to reap the benefits of this boy bonding group. Here’s a break down that every boy mum can appreciate.
Welcome to Scouting
Scouting is a nationwide program that aims to help boys grow into strong, responsible men. It’s not just about earning badges (although there are plenty of those to be earned), but about fostering leadership, teamwork, and outdoor skills. Scouting helps boys build confidence, gain life skills, and form lasting friendships. They get to experience new adventures, from camping and hiking to community service and leadership training, all while learning the importance of responsibility.
Boy Scouts of America is a multi-tiered program that grows with your child, starting from Cub Scouts for younger boys, all the way up to Eagle Scouts. There’s a spot for every boy, no matter where he’s at on his journey.
Scout Law
The Boy Scouts live by a simple but powerful code: the Scout Law. It’s a set of values that guides their actions and behavior, both in and out of Scouts. The 12 points of the Scout Law are:
- Trustworthy
- Loyal
- Helpful
- Friendly
- Courteous
- Kind
- Obedient
- Cheerful
- Thrifty
- Brave
- Clean
- Reverent
As a mom, you’ll love the fact that Scouting reinforces these values through every activity, helping shape your son into someone who understands the importance of integrity, kindness, and community.
Youth Leadership Training
One of the best parts of Scouting is the emphasis on leadership training. Even as young as Cub Scouts, boys are given small leadership roles that build up as they grow. Whether it’s leading a small group in an activity or helping plan a community service project, leadership opportunities are built into the fabric of Scouting. By the time your son reaches the higher ranks, he’ll have learned how to manage people, organize events, and lead with confidence—skills that will benefit him throughout his life, in school and beyond.
Cub Scout Family Campouts
Scouting is also about family. As a Cub Scout mom, you’ll have the opportunity to bond with your child and other families through fun and adventurous activities. Family campouts are a highlight of the Cub Scout program, where your son will have the chance to experience the outdoors, learn new skills, and develop friendships. These events are a great way for both boys and parents to get involved in the Scouting community while having a blast. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t want a reason to roast marshmallows over a campfire?
National Eagle Scout Association (DC)
The Eagle Scout rank is the highest honor in Scouting, and it’s not something that’s easily earned. Only a small percentage of Scouts make it to Eagle, and when they do, it’s a huge deal. The National Eagle Scout Association (NESA) is the group that celebrates those who achieve this prestigious rank, providing them with lifelong support, networking opportunities, and recognition. Eagle Scouts are often celebrated in the media and can be found in all walks of life, from business and politics to entertainment and beyond. It’s an achievement that stays with them forever.
National Scout Jamboree
Every few years, thousands of Scouts from across the nation gather for the National Scout Jamboree—a massive, multi-day event filled with activities, competitions, and performances. It’s an exciting experience for boys to interact with Scouts from other states and even other countries. The jamboree is a fantastic way for your son to expand his horizons, make lasting memories, and connect with other boys who share his passion for Scouting.
Can Anyone Join the Scouts?
Yes! Any boy between the ages of 5 and 17 can join the Boy Scouts of America. The BSA welcomes boys of all backgrounds, cultures, and interests, and the program is designed to adapt to the needs of every boy. Whether your son is interested in hiking, woodworking, community service, or learning leadership skills, there’s a place for him in Scouting.
Are the Scouts LGBT Friendly?
The Boy Scouts of America have evolved over the years to be more inclusive. In 2013, the organization lifted its ban on openly gay Scouts, and in 2015, it also began allowing openly gay leaders. This is an important development, as Scouting now welcomes boys and leaders regardless of their sexual orientation. The BSA has worked hard to create an environment where everyone can feel welcome and supported.
What Do the Scouts Do?
Boy Scouts do a lot! They go camping, learn survival skills, work on merit badges, participate in community service projects, and gain leadership experience. Scouts are taught valuable skills that help them grow into responsible young men. These activities help them develop a sense of self-sufficiency, teamwork, and responsibility. Plus, Scouts are encouraged to work on merit badges, which are earned through learning and mastering new skills. There are over 130 different merit badges, covering everything from archery and robotics to cooking and first aid.
What Are the Boy Scouts Called Now?
If you’re wondering whether the Boy Scouts are still called “Boy Scouts,” the answer is…sort of. In 2018, the Boy Scouts of America became “Scouts BSA” to better reflect the fact that girls can now also participate in the program at the same levels as boys. While the Cub Scouts still exist as a separate program for younger kids, “Scouts BSA” now refers to the broader Scouting program that includes both boys and girls in the same activities.
Is Scouts BSA Religious?
Scouts BSA is not tied to any one religion, but it does encourage boys to practice their faith and live by the values of their religion. The BSA asks Scouts to “be reverent,” meaning they are encouraged to be respectful of different faiths and to recognize the importance of spirituality in their lives.
What Is the Purpose of Scouting America?
The purpose of Scouting America is simple: to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling values such as trustworthiness, loyalty, and kindness. Scouting encourages boys to learn important life skills, give back to their communities, and grow into capable and responsible adults.
Has BSA Had Incidents of Sexual Abuse? Is It Safe to Leave My Son Overnight?
The Boy Scouts of America has had some unfortunate and tragic incidents in the past involving sexual abuse. The BSA has implemented stricter rules around adult supervision, training, and background checks, and the organization has worked hard to create a safer environment for all boys.
I know this sounds scary boy mums. I tell moms that they really should be just as vigilant about ensuring their sons aren’t taken advantage of, just as much as they are with their daughters. I’d say that rather than waiving off the scouts altogether, consider creating boundaries. Only let him join the overnights that you can chaperone. Teach him safe body boundaries and always check in with him about how things are going with his other scouts and troop leaders.
Who Are Famous Former Boy Scouts of America?
Boy Scouts is a proud organization, and many well-known public figures have roots in Scouting. Famous Eagle Scouts include Neil Armstrong (the first person to walk on the moon), Steven Spielberg, and Mike Rowe (host of Dirty Jobs). These individuals show the lasting impact that Scouting can have on a boy’s life and the impressive careers they can build because of it.
How to Find a Branch Near You
If you’re interested in finding a local troop for your son, visit the Boy Scouts of America (Scouting America) website. They have a helpful tool that allows you to search for troops near you by entering your zip code. You can also reach out to your child’s school or community center, as they often have information on local Scouting opportunities.
Time and Money Commitment Moms Should Expect
Let’s be real: when your son joins Scouts, you sorta do too. Expect to pay an annual membership fee for your son, which usually covers basic registration and insurance, plus additional costs for uniforms, camping gear, merit badge books, and activity fees. The total cost can vary depending on your local troop, but on average, you might a few hundred dollars per year—more if your son participates in special activities or goes on overnight trips. Of course, that also means more birthday party invites and playdates with different friends. So the wider his friend circle, the more it may cost you to keep your social butterfly satisfied.
Beyond the financial cost, be prepared for the time commitment. Many troops rely on parent volunteers for everything from organizing camping trips to helping with fundraising events. It’s not uncommon for moms (and dads) to pitch in as den leaders, committee members, or even just chaperones for events. While this is a great opportunity to be involved in your son’s Scouting journey, it can feel like an extra job at times. When your son joins Scouts, you’re joining too. If you’re already into the outdoors, it helps to have a larger community that’s encouraging him to be responsible and aware too.
But if these activities were once your sacred “alone time” with him-hiking or camping-be prepared for the adjustment of having 30 other little boys around too. It may not feel like you’re connecting with him one-on-one, and that can be a bit of a boy mom shock at first.
BY & FOR BOY MOMS EVERYWHERE 
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