Aaron Derr, Author at Aaron On Scouting

Fall recruiting was a smashing success; now it’s on to spring

January 26, 2022 4

The number of new members added to all BSA programs from fall 2020 to fall 2021 increased by 191%, from 78,910 new members in fall 2020 (when many families couldn’t even leave their homes due to the coronavirus pandemic) to 229,243 in fall 2021 (the second consecutive recruiting season affected by the pandemic).

Hot tips for cold-weather fun with Cub Scouts

January 22, 2022 0

Going outdoors in the cold is tricky. Going outdoors in the cold with Cub Scouts is extra tricky. The last thing you want to do is create an impression for youngsters that cold-weather outings have to be miserable.

Illustrator of Scout Life’s ‘Gus’ cartoon has died; his last drawing will melt your heart

January 17, 2022 1

Busino was the artist who created ‘Gus,’ the loveable large white dog who first graced the pages of Boys’ Life in January 1970 and was featured in almost every issue since.

How to get younger Scouts out in the cold

January 15, 2022 0

The winter outing organized by Pack 3 in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, succeeds for two main reasons: They create a safe, structured event that teaches Cub Scouts it’s possible to be comfortable in the cold, and they bring in local Scouts BSA members to provide leadership.

How to strengthen family ties with traditions

January 8, 2022 0

Traditions, our expert says, are an essential part of forging a family identity, of making the family a place where kids know they belong.

Stress-busting tips for the new year

January 1, 2022 0

You and your family can survive the start of a new year — and the entire year, really — by recognizing and managing stress.

A printable holiday-themed crossword puzzle

December 25, 2021 0

Looking for some extra fun during the holidays? Try our printable crossword puzzle!

Help your kids beat winter boredom

December 18, 2021 0

What should you do when you hear “I’m bored” from your kids during winter break? We talked to two experts to find out.

Our five favorite things about the official Philmont podcast

December 16, 2021 0

Philmont stories are Scouting stories. In an effort to tell those stories in a new and exciting way, Philmont has launched its first official podcast.

A Christmas tree safety quiz

December 11, 2021 1

As you deck the halls this season, check out this safety quiz from the November-December 2018 issue of Scouting magazine.