We all know how much fun is had by kids on Scouting adventures. And, of course, the personal growth we see in kids who Scout with us year after year is unparalleled.
To add value to Scouting’s mission, research from Johns Hopkins University has found that there are seven key “Positive Childhood Experiences” (PCEs) that shape the course of a child’s health and resiliency as they grow into adulthood.
These 7 PCE’s illustrate how Scouting provides them to young people throughout the program:
- The ability to talk with family about feelings. Scouts and families are encouraged to review the Youth Protection Guide together before participating in the program and embarking on rank advancement.
- The sense that family is supportive during difficult times. Scouting provides a multitude of avenues for kids and their families to overcome struggles and achieve success, from backpacking 50 miles to leading others through a community service project.
- The enjoyment of participation in community traditions. Not only has Scouting itself been a community tradition for more than 100 years, but the program also provides opportunities for kids to be a part of long-standing local traditions such as food drives, parades and planting flags on the graves of fallen Veterans.
- Feeling a sense of belonging in high school. Scouting is one constant that provides a positive circle of fellowship as young people embark on the difficult transition from middle school to high school.
- Feeling supported by friends. Scouting creates lifelong friendships as Scouts grow with one another year after year. As a matter of fact, Stephen Spielberg featured this in his recent movie “The Fablemans” Read more here.
- Having at least two non-parent adults who genuinely cared. Scouting always has adults outside a child’s immediate family who are ready to guide and uplift them. CPC’s average ratio of kids to adults is nearly 3:1, which is unmatched in youth-serving programs, especially compared to sports or other after-school activities.
- Feeling safe and protected by an adult in the home. Youth Protection training teaches Scouts that they deserve to feel safe at all times and encourages families to have meaningful conversations about youth safety. These discussions can provide emotional stability and connection for children and their parents.
Please share this blog post with others and the images below on your social media with why you support Scouting, and remember that your time, talent, and treasure are what make Scouting possible. And if you’d like to help us create more Positive Childhood Experiences for young people, give today at https://igfn.us/form/IbmrLQ
Other Fun Facts about Scouting’s Personal Impact
The impact of Scouting on individuals and communities is unparalleled. Feel free to share this graphic or our Annual Report below with those interested in supporting or joining Scouting.
