There
is an exciting new Scouting program called "Lion" for Kindergarten-aged boys that will be available as a national pilot for Baltimore Area Council this fall. This program does not change any of the current ranks and organization of other Scouting programs. It's unique as it reaches out to a slightly younger group of boys.
Research shows that childhood development accelerates around ages 4 and 5, about the time youth begin formal education. That's where Scouting comes in. Like many of the BSA's programs which supplement the learning and growth boys experience at home and in an educational environment at that age, the Boy Scouts of America has developed this pilot program for 5-year-old Kindergarten boys. Lions must be 5 years old by September 30 to participate.
In order to participate in the Lion National Pilot Program you must join a local Cub Scout pack that has applied to and been accepted as a participating Baltimore Area Council - Pilot Lion Cub Scout pack. Cub Scout Pack 355 has been selected by the Baltimore Area Council as authorized to offer the Lions program in this area.
Pack 355 is happy to offer this great scouting program. This is the first year we will be running the Lion program having become part of the national pilot program. The Lion program has the same mission as the rest of the Scouting program, but is simple, extremely flexible and a great way to introduce families to Scouting. A Lion learns by doing things himself while having fun. As he learns and grows, the relationship with their adult partner grows as well. We hope to have the early enthusiasm caused by this, stay with the boy through the rest of his Scouting experience. At the conclusion of their kindergarten year, the Lion will transition to Tiger Scout and continue on their journey through Cub Scouting. Most of all, our goal is for you to have lots of fun with your son and other Scouting families!
Lions is a family-oriented program. A youth and his parent or caring adult partner join Scouting together. A group of six to eight boys and their adult partners meet together in a group called a den. Dens will meet approximately twice per month. They have fun participating in den meetings and outings while making memories together. It's a chance to create memories that will last a lifetime, and build a stronger family while you enjoy the Scouting program with other families.
The Lion pilot encourages boys to learn and explore through hands-on, high-energy activities. The program is run by volunteers. Each Den will have a Lion Guide, an experienced Cub Scout leader. A kindergarten-age boy and his adult partner join and attend meetings and activities together. The parents or Lion adult partners take turns leading the activities and den meetings for the youth. Your son will be so proud of you and your involvement! The Lion Guide helps mentor each Parent to prepare for their meeting/outing. The Den Meeting Plans are outlined in the Lion Parent and Leader Guidebook with simple easy to follow step by step instructions listing everything down to any supplies needed. Most meetings and outings are approximately 45 minutes in length. A Lion "adventure" is a content theme that will tie together a den meeting activity and possibly an outing that share a common focus. Watch the free Lion Guide and Parent Orientation video.
Boys are recognized for their accomplishments as they work toward the Lion badge. Adventures are completed during the den meetings and outings. When an adventure is completed, the youth receives a sticker to put in his keepsake Lion Adventure Book. The Lion badge is earned by completing five adventures.
The uniform for Lions is a Lion T-shirt with an optional cap. The uniform is important, it makes the boy feel like he's part of something, part of the Pack. We wear our uniforms whenever we gather as Scouts. Pack 355 issues the uniform shirt upon registration. The optional cap is available from any of the the council Scout shops.
Full information about the Lion program is available at www.scouting.org/lion.
Cub Scout Pack 355 is pleased to have been selected as a regional Lion Program Pilot unit and is excited to offer the opportunity to you and your boy to be one of the first families to be part of the Lion program.
If you have any questions regarding the program, or are ready to sign your guy up, please use our Contact Us form or send an email to info@mdpack355.com and we'll respond right away.