Cubs learning to lead via a hiking club

[AwakeEnergyScouter]

Second hiking club hike went fabulously!

The first hike was a bit special in that we had a nature guide for the nature conservation center (for Fur, Feathers and Ferns) and they de facto led the hike. This time, our pathfinder (scout with topo map and compass) and flagbearer (what it sounds like, scout with flags indicating the "front" of the pack) really got to lead the hike after a refresher on orienteering. They were very excited to lead! (Both Bears.)

We went the wrong way three times, scouts wanted to quit (hike leaders jumped in to encourage), it was hot (leaders suggested drinking water), and the flag was heavy (leaders pawned it off to an adult from time to time but took it back after a rest), but during learning by doing they got us back to the parking lot after hiking exactly the target number of miles, so I'm quite pleased! We definitely didn't hike the plan but I don't care. The long-term plan is getting good at this, and we practiced!

The pathfinder and the flag bearer traded off sometimes, and they both learned some important leadership lessons. Can't wait to see how this group grows next month! ♥️

[MattR]

Great idea!