Susquehanna Council BSA
815 Northway Road
Williamsport, PA 17701
Phone: 570-326-5121
Toll-Free: 800-647-4510
Fax: 570-326-7339
scouting@susquehannabsa.org

Cub Scouts Training

Wood Badge Training Information and Form  

Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO)

Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) is a one-day training event that introduces leaders and parents to the skills needed to plan and conduct pack outdoor activities, particularly pack camping.

Participants who complete this training course will
* Understand the focus of the Cub Scout level of the BSA outdoor program.
* Gain the skills needed to plan and carry out a successful Cub Scout-level overnight activity.
* Learn more about the resources available from the BSA for carrying out this activity.

This training is required for any adult who is in charge of planning a pack campout.

Basic Leader Training

Basic Leader Training is designed to give position-related information to all adult leaders in Cub Scouting. Building on the foundation established in Fast Start Training, Basic Leader Training goes into greater detail.

Basic Leader Training has two parts:

1. New Leader Essentials is for all new leaders in Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, Varsity Scouting, and Venturing. It highlights the values, aims, history, funding, and methods of the Scouting program. Once completed, it need not be taken again, even if the leader moves to a different position or program level.
2. Leader Specific Training gives a leader the knowledge and skills needed for a specific position. Leader Specific Training is available for the following positions in Cub Scouting:
   • Tiger Cub leader
   • Cub Scout den leader and assistant
   • Webelos den leader and assistant
   • Cubmaster and assistant
   • Pack committee members

Basic Leader Training goes into greater detail on youth development and boy behavior, program planning, activities, and the purposes of the program. It is usually presented in one or two group sessions, but can be delivered to small groups or even individuals through personal coaching.

Every Cub Scout leader should complete Basic Leader Training; it prepares leaders to deliver a quality, fun-filled program. Leaders who understand the whys and hows of the program are more effective in their roles. They know how to use available resources to provide an exciting and worthwhile program for boys. Trained leaders have confidence in carrying out their responsibilities and, along with the boys, have more fun.

Your pack trainer, unit commissioner, or district training chair can help you learn about the Basic Leader Training available in your district and council. Dates and locations of upcoming training courses are often announced in the local council or district newsletter or Web site.

Leader Roundtables

Cub Scout leader roundtables are held monthly on a district basis. Den and pack leaders join for fun and fellowship while learning new tricks, stunts, games, crafts, ceremonies, songs, and skits related to the Cub Scout theme and Webelos activity badges for the following month. There are also opportunities for sharing ideas and activities with leaders from other packs.

Cub Scouting roundtables are a form of supplemental training for volunteers at the pack level. The objective of roundtables is to give these pack leaders program ideas; information on policy, events, and training opportunities; and an opportunity to share experiences and enjoy fun and fellowship with other Cub Scouting leaders. The roundtable commissioner and staff demonstrate elements of a model meeting that leaders may use as a pattern for their own den and pack meetings. As a result of the roundtable experience, unit leaders will be inspired, motivated, and able to provide a stronger program for their Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, and Webelos Scouts.

Check with your pack trainer or unit commissioner to find out the time and location of your district's monthly roundtable.