Parent Guide

Getting Started

Simply participating in meetings, hikes, camping trips and summer camp will ensure that a scout has the opportunity to achieve the first 4 of the 7 ranks of scouting (Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class and First Class) as the program plans incorporate specific rank requirements. Parents should become familiar with the requirements and provide support and encouragement for the scout. If you need guidance in how you can help your son, please do not hesitate to contact one of the troop leaders.

Uniforms and Equipment

Scouts will need a "Class A" and "Class B" uniform. Class A is a complete uniform including scout shirt with appropriate badges and insignia (see the Handbook), neckerchief and slide, web belt, pants/shorts and socks. We will supply each scout with a Troop tee shirt, which replaces the scout shirt and neckerchief in the Class B uniform. Scout supplies can be purchased at the Scout Store. The most convenient location for most families is the BSA store at 474 East Avenue or online.

The Scout Handbook

The Scout Handbook is a wonderful source of information for your scout and you.

Communications

As a boy-led troop, relying on the patrol method, direct communication about events, activities, etc. will be passed on directly to your son. Through e-mail, newsletters, Courts of Awards and our web site, we will do our best to keep everyone informed. E-mail is the most effective and fastest form of communication for most people. Please keep us up to date on your e-mail address. We use the domain name Troop31bsa.org which will allow for broad distribution of information.

Medications

Medications on camping trips are dispensed at the appropriate time by the Scoutmaster or his designee. Scouts and parents should provide meds in an original prescription labeled bottle with the scout's name and directions for administration to the Scoutmaster prior to departing for the trip.

Youth Protection and Safety

The Boy Scouts of America has developed a series of programs and guidelines to help make Scouting as safe an experience as is possible. Each year the adults in the troop and the scouts will be trained in the principles of Youth Protection, to prevent abuse. It outlines guidelines for "Two-deep Leadership", respect of privacy, and no one-on-one contact, among others. All parents are welcome to participate in the training and if you are involved in Troop activities you will be requested to participate. BSA Guide to Safe Scouting, a 60-page guide to safe conduct of a wide variety of scouting activities is now available online at www.scouting.org.

Financial Aid

Our Troop Committee feels strongly that financial constraints should not prevent a boy from owning a uniform, from having the opportunity to participate in all scouting events or accessing the necessary equipment. Several events during the year, particularly summer camp, require a financial commitment. Troop 31 is prepared to find ways to assist any scout with a financial need. If you have such a need or are aware of others who do, please refer to the section of this guide describing our Campership Program or contact our Scoutmaster for a confidential discussion.

Donations

If you wish to make a donation to help us purchase equipment, please make the check payable to: Boy Scout Troop 31 and pass it to the Scoutmaster or one of the Committee Members. Your donation is tax deductible. A receipt suitable for filing with the IRS will be returned to you.