The Scouting program has three specific objectives, commonly referred to as the “Aims of Scouting”. They are character development, citizenship training, and personal fitness.

The methods by which the aims are achieved are listed below in random order to emphasize the equal importance of each.

Ideals:

The ideals of boy scouting are spelled out in the Scout Oath, and Scout Law, the Scout Motto, and Scout Slogan. The Boy Scout measures himself against these ideals and continually tries to improve. The goals are high, and as he reaches for them, he has some control over what and who he becomes.

Patrols:

The patrol method gives a Boy Scout an experience group living and participating citizenship. It places responsibility on young shoulders and teaches boys how to accept it. The patrol method allows scout to interact in small groups who its members can easily relate to each other. These small groups determine troops activities through elected representatives.

Outdoor Programs:

Scouting is designed to take place outdoors. It is in the outdoor setting that Scouts share responsibilities and learn to live with one another. In the outdoors, the skills and activities practiced at troop meetings come alive with a purpose. Being close to nature helps Boy Scouts gain an appreciation for the beauty of the world around us. The outdoors is the laboratory in which Boy Scouts learn ecology and practice conservation of nature’s resources.

Advancement:

Boy Scouting provides a series of surmountable obstacles and steps in overcoming them through the advancement method. The Boy Scout plans his advancement and progresses at his own pace as he meets each challenge. The Boy Scout is rewarded for each achievement, which helps him gain self-confidence. The steps in the advancement system help a Boy Scout grow in self-reliance and in the ability to help others.

Associations with Adults:

Boys learn a great deal by watching how adults conduct themselves. Scout leaders can be positive role models for the members of the Troop.   In many cases a Scoutmaster who is willing to listen to boys, encourage them, and take a sincere interest in them can make a profound difference in their lives.

Personal Growth:

As boy Scouts plan their activities and progress toward their goals. They experience personal growth. They participate in community service projects and do Good Turns for others. Probably no device is as successful in developing a basis for personal growth as the daily Good Turn. The religious emblems program also is a large part of the personal

growth method. Frequent personal conferences with his Scoutmaster help each Boy Scout to determine his growth toward Scouting’s Aims.

Leadership Development:

The Boy Scout program encourages boys to learn and practice leadership skills. Every Boy Scout has the opportunity to participate in both shared and total leadership situations. Understanding the concepts of leadership helps a boy accept the leadership role of others and guides him toward the citizenship aim of Scouting.