dswan64015

As a W2DL we were able to cover all of our necessary pins for the Webelos badge during our 1st year of Webelos. All of our scouts attended camp prior to 1st year of Webelos, this awarded them a jump start on their activity pins. We then in turned asked their 4th grade teachers to look at the remaining pins needed to see what would be covered specifically in the school year and we marked that off of any and all activity pins/belt loops that applied. That left us with the remaining for the year to work with. Having done those items, we were able to cover the remining in just one year. For the boys who showed up to every meeting and did all of the projects and participated in the service project, they earned their Webelos badge, and after camp this year, the Super Achiever award. Not all of my Webelos did this, only 2. However, all of them earned their Webelos badge the first year, which is what my goal was, so we could work with the Troop the 2nd year and focus on the Arrow of Light. We had fun meetings throughout the year, did great projects and kept on course. Not every boy was able to make it to every meeting. For those who did not, we will use the 2nd year to play catch up for them as well. We lost a few boys this year due to parental lack of involvement. If the parents are not dedicated and get tired of bringing the boys, you can't keep the boys in. It is hard to fight the parents. If anyone has figured out a way to motivate the parents let me know. Scouting is a commitment and often parents are not in it for the long haul. I come from a long line of Eagle Scouts, so I grew up know what kind of commitment it would take. It is not always convient or easy, but if your son has fun and passion, it is important to but your thoughts or feelings about Scouting to the side, and embrace his. Scouting is a great program that really can help young men. I can't wait for my youngest to start this year. We will be leaders once again, and enjoy the process all over again. We will of course be active as our oldest crosses over into the Troop next year.