Between the economic crisis and cutbacks all over our city, I think many parents, including yours truly, are feeling less than enthusiastic about the future our kids can look forward to. Not that I’m trying to be a downer here; but I’m just not feeling all that optimistic right now.
Yet, simply gazing at my kids, I am instantly overwhelmed by the blessings that fill my life. In fact, this economic crisis has forced me to recognize that despite this protective bubble I attempt to maintain for my family, there are no guarantees and no real way to safeguard anything except the very moment we’re enjoying.
I’ve also always found that whenever I’m feeling a bit disenchanted with the state of world affairs and find myself dwelling on the unsure future of Social Security for my children, the energy crisis and weather patterns that are completely out of my control, engaging my kids in activities that I know will help them become more connected to our planet, and be in the service of others usually gives me a renewed sense of confidence in the kindness of human beings and that more than anyhting my job as a parent and keeping my kids grounded and the warm feeling that, united, we’re capable of many great things is ultimately up to me. And joining the BOY SCOUTS well it’s it’s definitely a way to help both your kids and yourself begin to see how much glory and value there is in doing good.
If you’re not sure just what or why the scouts are a wonderful afterschool option for you and your kidlets check out Scholastic.com/BoyScouts. This hub features a free Adventure Manual download including fun activities for parents to share with their sons and a fun quiz that kids can play to “test” their adventure skills.
Don’t get me wrong; after-school sports are important to today’s youth,but they simply do not offer the full spectrum of experiences provided by Scouting. Year-round Scouting programs take activity further with arts and crafts, citizenship development, community service and so much more. Scouting is there to provide a balance of outdoor exploration, technology interaction, and social activities that are so essential for proper development. But scouting isn’t just tying knots and camping. It’s also introducing young boys to the technologies that are shaping the future. Boy Scouts is rolling out a new curriculum with emphasis on STEM: science, technology, engineering, and math. The Robotics merit badge, the most recent of the 31 STEM-related merit badges, is helping Scouts develop critical skills that are relevant in today’s competitive world.
Scouting also encourages and promotes values and words like; Trustworthy. Loyal. Helpful. Friendly. Courteous. Kind. Obedient. Cheerful. Thrifty. Brave. Clean. Reverent. These are more than words. They are values that all Scouts honor and strive to portray. And for your littlest guys there’s Cub Scouting, which takes great care in teaching Scouts a wholesome system of values and beliefs while building and strengthening relationships among family members.
What your kids will go gaga for: Field trips, camping excursions and earning badges through volunteer service projects of their own choosing.
Parent perks:All parents are encouraged to register as Girl/Boy Scouts, too, and take an active role.
BOTTOM LINE: It’s anything but a craft session or two hours of baby-sitting services.
Information: Scholastic.com/BoyScouts
This post is sponsored by The Boy Scouts- but as is always the case, all opinions exressed on this blog are my own!
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