September is a busy month for families with school-age children. Not only do the kiddies head back to school, but it is time to start the new suite of fall season and academic year activities. From sports to music to academic enrichment, there are countless options out there — limited only by schedule and finances.
I want to talk about one particular category of extracurricular activity that I believe transcends all the others. One that is respected by everyone. And serves as the cornerstone of becoming a truly well-rounded human-being. Scouting.
A group of Cub Scouts and parents hiking through the Watchung Reservation in Mountainside, N.J. (Dan Zarrow, Townsquare Media)
A group of Cub Scouts and parents hiking through the Watchung Reservation in Mountainside, N.J. (Dan Zarrow, Townsquare Media)
For the bulk of this article, I will be talking specifically about Cub Scouts, which is open to kids from Kindergarten to 5th grade. But let’s not forget about Scouts BSA (Boy Scouts of America) (soon to be renamed Scouting America), Girl Scouts of the USA, and numerous other niche organizations tied to specific aspects of scouting culture, religious institutions, etc.
Since the Scouting movement began in 1910, millions upon millions of Americans have participated in such programs. The mission of the Boys Scouts of America (and Cub Scouts) in particular is to “prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law.” You know the mottos and slogans: Be prepared. Do your best. Do a good turn daily.
Scout Salute
Cub scouts Raymond Lou, Barry Hong and Wesley Eng give the scout salute during a ceremony, circa 1955. (Getty Images)
This is now the peak recruitment season for scouting groups. Packs and troops all around are hosting open house and new member events. I have to throw in a plug for BeAScout.org — just plug in your zip code and you will see which units are operating nearby.
My two oldest sons have been a part of Cub Scouts since they were eligible. And I am proud to be serving as Assistant Cubmaster for our local pack this year. It is an amazing, thriving community. And it is truly one of the most worthwhile volunteer experiences I’ve had. (More on that later…)
The Scouting for Food donation drive is an annual service project. (Cub Scout Pack 145)
The Scouting for Food donation drive is an annual service project. (Cub Scout Pack 145)
It is also important to know that the safeguards, guidelines, and training now in place to protect our children from abuse and bullying are very strong. This is incredibly important in this day and age. Without such protections, my boys and I absolutely would not have joined the organization.
Let me lay out 10 very good reasons why your sons and daughters might consider joining the wonderful world of Scouting:
Adventure
In today’s modern age, one particular challenge for parents is to find alternatives to the dreaded screen time. Organized Scouting activities get kids to put the electronics down and explore the great outdoors through camping, hiking, and more.
Friendship & Fellowship
The close-knit den/pack structure creates a strong sense of belonging. And creates fast and long-lasting friendships.
Citizenship / Patriotism
Respect and reverence for the United States of America is a huge theme in Scouting. We recite the Pledge of Allegiance at every scout function. We learn about the flag, its history, proper care and retirement. And we learn about government, often meeting with local leaders to discuss their job and the importance of service to one’s community.
The Cub Scouts program follows a specific curriculum, focused on outdoor adventure, building friendships, and being a good citizen. (Dan Zarrow, Townsquare Media)
The Cub Scouts program follows a specific curriculum, focused on outdoor adventure, building friendships, and being a good citizen. (Dan Zarrow, Townsquare Media)Character Growth
Scouting has ideals of spiritual and character growth and personal fitness. The Cub Scout motto rings true for all: “Do Your Best.”
Life Skills
Many scouts discover a new hobby or even a career through the program. Learn about lots of subjects, including conservation, safety, fitness, and STEM.
Family
Parents and siblings get involved in Scouting too. Families who work and play together become stronger and more supportive to each other.
A Cub Scout pack meeting pairs kids and parents to learn about important topics like First Aid. (Dan Zarrow, Townsquare Media)
A Cub Scout pack meeting pairs kids and parents to learn about important topics like First Aid. (Dan Zarrow, Townsquare Media)Achievement & Advancement
The awards granted to scouts are not participation trophies — those badges, patches, belt loops, and pins are earned through hard work and dedication, effort and achievement. It is a great way to grow self-confidence and self-esteem, even for the youngest scouts.
Year-Round Activity
Unlike athletics and school-affiliated activities, there is no “season” for Cub Scouts. Meetings and activities are flexible, and can fit in with the rest of your busy schedule. More and more packs are planning programs through the summer months too.
Fun
Just as important as all the rest, “fun” in Scouting means more than just having a good time. It’s a code word for satisfaction from meeting challenges, having friends, feeling good, and feeling you’re important to others.
Pinewood Derby is a highlight of the Cub Scout year, as this proud Tiger Scout shows off his car and trophy. (Dan Zarrow, Townsquare Media)
Pinewood Derby is a highlight of the Cub Scout year, as this proud Tiger Scout shows off his car and trophy. (Dan Zarrow, Townsquare Media)Adult Leadership Opportunities
When I went through Cub Scouts as a kid, I never imagined I would return to the program one day. But here I am! Volunteering my time is not only a great way to spend time with my boys and their friends, it has been personally rewarding too. There are opportunities for adults registered with the BSA to attend special training, earn awards and achievements, and give back to the larger Scouting community. I hope to be involved for a very long time. (Shout-out to my colleague and dear friend Bob Williams, a former Scoutmaster and proud father of three Eagle Scouts, for convincing me to participate!)
NJ101.5 Chief Meteorologist Dan Zarrow and Trafficologist Bob Williams. (Dan Zarrow, Townsquare Media)
NJ101.5 Chief Meteorologist Dan Zarrow and Trafficologist Bob Williams. (Dan Zarrow, Townsquare Media)12 of the most unique NJ events and festivals to enjoy this October
It’s October in New Jersey and there is no shortage of events and festivals in the state during the 10th month of the year. Almost every town in every county has a festival of some sort for people to check out. Here are 12 of the most unique festivals in October in New Jersey:
Gallery Credit: Jen Ursillo
Dan Zarrow is Chief Meteorologist for Townsquare Media New Jersey. Check out Dan’s weather blog or follow him on Facebook for your latest weather forecast updates.
How much a box of Girl Scout cookies costs throughout the yearsFebruary is the time of year we see Girl Scouts out hustling hard to sell their scrumptious cookies. We all know that the price of a box has gone up, but do you know how much the price has increased? Thanks to finance.yahoo.com, we now know.
Gallery Credit: Jessica On The Radio
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