Aaron Derr, Author at Aaron On Scouting

Happy 50th birthday to NESA! Here are 5 things you need to know about the National Eagle Scout Association

May 19, 2022 0

On May 19, 1972, the National Eagle Scout Association was officially born. Since then, NESA has continued to serve Eagle Scouts and, through them, the entire Scouting movement.

How to take and share the best photos of your Scouts this summer … and beyond

May 16, 2022 1

Wherever you go with your Scouts this summer, whatever you do, you already have one of the most powerful tools you need to spread the joy of Scouting: your smartphone.

How to keep your troop meetings productive

May 14, 2022 0

Back in 2002, we asked readers for their thoughts on how to keep troop meetings from spinning out of control. As usual, their advice was spot on!

Founder of mom-and-me Cub Scout event reflects on its legacy

May 9, 2022 7

Junell Nichols remembers what happened when she showed up for a Cub Scout weekend campout designed for dads and their sons back in the mid-1980s.

Developing an effective summertime program

May 7, 2022 0

Some Cub Scout packs tend to slow down during the summer. It’s an understandable tendency — everyone needs a break; lots of people go on vacation.

Tracking and stalking

April 30, 2022 0

Observing wildlife is a memorable part of any outdoors excursion, and spring is a good time to do it. A field guide and magnifying glass can help you identify animal tracks.

Five takeaways from child abuse prevention month

April 29, 2022 0

Since youth protection is a year-round value, here are five things to keep in mind when it comes to keeping kids safe, both in and out of Scouting, all year long.

How to earn the 50-Miler Award

April 23, 2022 3

Most people think nothing of traveling 50 miles by car, bus or plane. But 50 miles on foot? That’s another story — and just the sort of achievement the 50-Miler Award recognizes.

Engaged supervision: What it means, and how it helps keep everyone safe

April 20, 2022 1

Engaged supervision means being actively engaged, situationally aware and willing to act if you observe anyone — youth or adult — acting in a way that isn’t aligned with the Scout Oath and Law.

Using clouds to predict the weather

April 16, 2022 0

Weather is a great subject to talk about with Scouts. What is happening in the sky can give them (and you) fresh ways for understanding the environment and for deciding whether to put on more sunscreen or dive into a tent.