I’ve written a few stories this week about what I observed with members of my unit while at Day Camp, but I wouldn’t be giving a complete picture of the week without mentioning the Youth Staff and volunteers who make camp an enjoyable experience for the kids.
The Cub Scouts at Day Camp are divided into smaller groups who travel throughout the camp stations during the day. Den Walkers are Scouts themselves – active in Scouts BSA – who ensure the Cub’s safety and aid them at each station. It’s a big job. The Cubs are constantly going to the restroom or leaving their items behind, and the Den Walkers not only make sure the kids are all accounted for but keep them healthy and hydrated in the Texas heat. They tie shoes, hold tape, act as referees during games, pass out lunches, put names on water cups, encourage, coach, and praise a group of kids they’ve never met…for an entire week.
I’ve heard that Scouts BSA builds character and leaders, and at Day Camp I saw one way Scouting creates an opportunity for it.
Dominic, who is working toward his Eagle, not only provided leadership to our Cub Scouts and their parents who came with them, but he mentored Elijah, his assistant for the week. Together they identified potential issues, solved problems, and worked in tandem to make the experience enjoyable for everyone in our group. Even I, a 44-year old mother of two, looked to the two of them for guidance. Dominic delegated tasks to Elijah and provided him gentle instruction when needed. Elijah reported back to Dominic and offered suggestions when appropriate. Together they involved parents to help make things run smoothly throughout the week, and it worked beautifully.
For the kids in my Pack, Day Camp is a chance at trying new things, but Day Camp also offers an opportunity for our teens to develop their own leadership skills. For the record, the Webelos in my den took notice of their future in Scouting. My daughter is already asking when she can be an assistant and has big plans to be a lifeguard at the pool as soon as she’s old enough to be certified. That’s quite the compliment when you’ve made such an impact on a younger Scout, that they can’t wait to follow in your footsteps!
It’s not too late to register your child for Cub Scout Summer Day Camp. Visit the Alamo Area Council Summer Day Camp Page and sign up today.
Do you have a story to share about your Scout’s experience at Camp? Send them to Jennifer.Arntson@AlamoAreaBSA.org.
