Commentary - Bryan on Scouting

Clearing up misconceptions and showing there’s room for everyone in Scouting, especially Scouts with special needs

March 21, 2018 128

A news story about a Scout with Down syndrome who is working toward Eagle raises an important topic concerning the ways the BSA supports Scouts with special needs.

What goes on at a weekly troop meeting? Here’s the parent’s-eye view

October 12, 2017 12

So you’ve got your kiddo in a uniform and found a local troop. Here’s a sneak peek of one troop’s weekly meeting, from one parent to another.

In a world that’s divided, Scouting unites us around shared values

October 9, 2017 10

“In Scouting, we don’t talk about issues from cable news programs,” Ray Capp writes. “We talk about honor and the importance of one’s word.”

6 ways to help young people remember the true meaning of Memorial Day

May 26, 2017 2

Somewhere along the way, we forgot what Memorial Day is all about. Here are six ways to help young people keep that patriotic pledge going.

What the Scouting movement has in common with Netflix

October 5, 2016 7

Like Netflix, Scouting is a disruptive innovation. Scouting has the power to topple a world of helicopter parents and participation trophies.

Life Scout to fellow Scouts: Do not rush your journey to Eagle

September 20, 2016 29

Cameron, a Life Scout in Troop 424 of Katy, Texas, wrote a letter encouraging his fellow Scouts to slow down and enjoy the journey to Eagle.

My Two Cents: Why it’s OK to wait until age 17 to earn Eagle

May 20, 2016 112

While I commend your fellow Eagle Scouts who earned their badge at 13, 14 or 15, those 16- and 17-year-old Eagle Scouts impress me just as much.

A parent helped build that Pinewood Derby car? Yes, that’s the point

February 12, 2016 176

It was the most beautiful Pinewood Derby car the pack had ever seen. And it was clear that a parent helped build it. But isn’t that the point?

When encouraging proper uniforming becomes unkind

October 21, 2015 288

Proper uniforming is a worthy pursuit, but sometimes that pursuit takes a turn with comments that aren’t friendly, courteous or kind. Let’s discuss.

An Eagle Scout project doesn’t have to be permanent

September 21, 2015 90

Physical, construction-based Eagle Scout projects are great. But an Eagle Scout project doesn’t have to be permanent to have a lasting impact.