Scouting programs (Scouting America/BSA and Girl Scouts of the USA) provide structured youth development through outdoor activities, community service, leadership training, and merit-based advancement. Scouting America offers Cub Scouts (K-5th grade), Scouts BSA (ages 11-17, formerly Boy Scouts), Venturing (ages 14-20), and Sea Scouts (ages 14-20), all open to both boys and girls.
10 steps across 1 sections
1. Steps Process
- Determine the right program for your child's age and interests:
- Cub Scouts (BSA): Kindergarten through 5th grade, co-ed
- Scouts BSA: Ages 11-17 (or 10 if completed 5th grade/Arrow of Light), co-ed
- Girl Scouts: Ages 5-17 (Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Cadette, Senior, Ambassador)
- Venturing/Sea Scouts (BSA): Ages 14-20, co-ed, adventure/sailing focus
- Find a local unit — BSA: use beascout.scouting.org and enter your ZIP code; Girl Scouts: visit girlscouts.org and search for local councils and troops
- Attend an open house or meeting — Most units welcome prospective families to observe a meeting; this helps you assess the unit's culture, leadership, and activities
- Complete the application — BSA: create an account at my.scouting.org and submit a youth application; Girl Scouts: register online through your local council
- Pay registration fees — BSA: $85/year national registration plus unit dues (vary by troop); Girl Scouts: $25-50/year national dues plus council-specific costs
- Purchase the uniform — Official uniform shirts, pants/shorts, and accessories; new uniforms run $50-100+; used uniforms are widely available through troop swap programs and online resale
Common Mistakes
- Choosing a unit without visiting first
- Not understanding the parent commitment
- Over-focusing on advancement
- Assuming Girl Scouts is only about cookies
- Not budgeting for extras
Pro Tips
- Eagle Scout and Gold Award carry lifelong benefits
- Financial assistance is available
- Scouting America now serves all youth
- Merit badge fairs accelerate advancement
- Summer camp is a highlight