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Scouting 101

Scouting 101

What are the BSA’s regions and areas?

June 3, 2016 48

Figuring out the region and area of some Boy Scouts of America councils requires a little bit of guesswork. Or — better yet — a really good map.

Scouting 101

Why is the Scout handshake done with the left hand?

April 4, 2016 81

The left-handed Scout handshake unites two Scouts from anywhere on the planet. But why is this nonverbal greeting done with the left hand?

Ask the Expert

When can adult leaders wear the BSA’s Trained patch?

November 24, 2015 53

The BSA’s Trained patch sends a clear message to Scouts, fellow Scouters and parents. It says, “I know what I’m doing.” Here’s who can wear it.

Scouting 101

What is Scouting for Food?

October 30, 2015 14

Scouting for Food is the annual food-collection drive run by your local council. It’s another reminder to local communities that Scouts do good turns here.

Fundraising

What is Friends of Scouting?

October 16, 2015 42

Friends of Scouting is your council’s annual giving campaign. In most councils, Friends of Scouting (or FOS) represents the council’s largest income source.

Ask the Expert

What are Lone Scouts?

September 28, 2015 56

Certain circumstances make traditional Scouting an imperfect fit for certain young men. That’s why Lone Scouts was created.

Merit Badges

This is how to earn a merit badge

September 24, 2015 64

Merit badges cover American Business, Woodwork and everything between. Boy Scouts should read these 12 steps to learn how to earn a merit badge.

Advancement

How boys earn adventure loops and pins in new Cub Scout program

August 27, 2015 56

After a boy completes an adventure, he gets the ultimate reward: a shiny adventure loop for his belt or adventure pin for his Webelos colors or Webelos cap.

Cub Scouting

What is the Key 3?

August 19, 2015 27

Behind every great Scouting unit, district, council, area and region is a committed Key 3. But what is the Key 3, and who is a member?

Awards

In the loop: A guide to square knots, and how to wear them

November 20, 2012 203

If you’ve been honored with one of the 34 BSA square knots currently available, waste no time in sewing that badge of honor to your uniform.

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  • Popcorn, Christmas trees and food bank help in the latest Scouting news
    January 2, 2026 0
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    December 31, 2025 0
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    Greatest hits: The 10 most popular Aaron on Scouting blog posts of 2025
    December 30, 2025 0
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    December 29, 2025 2
  • Stuffed animals, Pelican Girls and return to camp in the latest Scouting news
    December 26, 2025 0

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Aaron on Scouting Contributors

Aaron Derr

Aaron Derr is the senior editor of Aaron on Scouting and Scout Life magazine, and also a former Cubmaster and Scouts BSA volunteer.


Michael Freeman

Michael Freeman, an Eagle Scout, is an associate editor of Scout Life and Scouting magazines.


Sheniece Chappell

Sheniece Chappell is an associate editor of Scout Life and Scouting magazines.

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