METRO LAKES DISTRICT of the Northern Star Council Boy Scout of America
Cub Scout Training
The training program of the Boy Scouts of America provides this information and
helps leaders become confident in carrying out their responsibilities. Each
Scout leader's job is different. This is the main reason why training leaders
is so vital to the success of the program. Not only must they know how
important their jobs are, but they must be acquainted with the methods used to
attract and hold boys in Scouting.
"Quotation goes here."
—Robert Baden-Powell
Every Cub Scout Deserves a Trained Leader
Upon completion of Fast Start Training, Youth Protection Training, This Is Scouting (f/k/a New Leader
Essentials), and Cub Scout Leader Specific Training for the position in which the leader is currently registered, Ac Cub Scout leader is considered "Trained" and may wear a "Trained" emblem.
When a Cub Scout Leader changes
position, he or she must take Leader Specific Training for that new position in order to still be considered trained.
The Training Sections
Fast Start Training
When new leaders are selected in Cub Scouting, it is essential that they receive immediate information that will help them get started. Proper training lays the groundwork for success in their leadership roles. This training will
help new leaders understand what is expected and establish effective meeting patterns so that the boys and their families can enjoy a quality program from the start.
As the first step in the training continuum, Fast Start
Training is meant to provide all the information and resources for new leaders to conduct their first meeting, along with guidance for the meetings that follow. All new leaders receive the Fast Start materials as soon as they are recruited and are
encouraged to participate in Basic Leader Training and roundtables.
Self-study, rather than group training, is the preferred method for Fast Start Training. This gives the new leader the opportunity to learn at his or her
own pace.
Video-Based Training;
Fast Start is a short, video-based training program designed to provide specific meeting planning information related to the leader's volunteer position. The video demonstrates actual meetings that new leaders may use as models for conducting their
own first meetings. The Cub Scout Leader Fast Start Viewer Guide is used with the video to enhance learning and provide an additional resource that stays with the leader. The viewer guide includes this same information in written form,
providing a "road map" for planning the first meeting. Download the Cub Scout Leader Fast Start Viewer Guide
Check with your Pack Trainer or Cubmaster for use of the Fast Start video. The Fast Start video is available from the Metro Lakes District Training Committee for use by any Pack Leaders within Metro Lakes (currently only
available on VHS tape).
Internet-Based Training;
This interactive computer-based training uses a different format than the videos, but it delivers the same information. It is an additional resource that packs can use to ensure that all leaders have an opportunity to
complete Fast Start Training as soon as possible, and it will always be available to leaders who would like to retake the course to refresh their knowledge and keep up-to-date. View the online version of Cub Scout Leader Fast Start in the Online Learning Center
Youth Protection Training
Child abuse is an increasingly serious, widespread problem in society,
affecting every ethnic group, socioeconomic level, and geographic area. The
significance of this problem is revealed by the nearly 3 million cases of child
abuse reported each year in the United States.
The Boy Scouts of America takes great pride in the quality of our adult leadership. Being a leader in the BSA is a privilege, not a right. The quality of the program and the safety of our youth members call for high-quality adult leaders.
The Boy Scouts of America has
developed Youth Protection training which can be taken online or through a video presentation by the Metro Lakes District Training team.
This comprehensive training course guides you on the do's and don'ts of working with youth. At all times, the youth's safety is the number one priority. At the same time, a leader needs to know the rules for keeping him/herself safe too.
Youth Protection Overview - Right click and choose PLAY
Youth Protection Training should be taken within the first 90 days of becoming an adult leader. While there is no standard time period after which an individual would be required to retake Youth Protection Training (either online or in a guided
presentation discussion), each person is encouraged to take either course as a refresher every 24 months.
Youth Protection Training topics covered include the BSA's Youth Protection
policies, kinds of abuse, signs of abuse, how to respond to disclosure of abuse, and proper reporting procedures. Successful completion of this course requires an 80 percent or higher score.
If you take the test as a registered member of the BSA and designate your local council, your completion will be reported back to your council to adjust your training records. You'll be offered a certificate of completion at the end of your
online session.
The BSA has adopted the following policies to provide additional security for our members. These policies are primarily for the protection of our youth members; however, they also serve to protect our adult
leaders from false accusations of abuse.
Two-deep leadership Two registered adult leaders or one registered leader and a parent of a participant, or other adult, one of whom must be 21 years of age or older, are
required on all trips and outings. If camping at least one registered leader must have Baloo Training. The chartered organization is responsible for ensuring that sufficient leadership is provided for all activities.
No one-on-one contact One-on-one contact between adults and youth members is not permitted. In situations that require personal conferences, such as a Scoutmaster's conference,
the meeting is to be conducted in view of other adults and youths.
Respect of privacy Adult leaders must respect the privacy of youth members in situations such as changing clothes and taking showers at camp, and intrude only to the extent that
health and safety require. Adults must protect their own privacy in similar situations.
Cameras, imaging, and digital devices While most campers and leaders use cameras and other imaging devices responsibly, it has become very easy to invade the privacy of
individuals. It is inappropriate to use any device capable of recording or transmitting visual images in shower houses, restrooms, or other areas where privacy is expected by participants.
Separate accommodations When camping, no youth is permitted to sleep in the tent of an adult other than his own parent or guardian. Councils are strongly encouraged to have
separate shower and latrine facilities for females. When separate facilities are not available, separate times for male and female use should be scheduled and posted for showers.
Proper preparation for high-adventure activities Activities with elements of risk should never be undertaken without proper preparation, equipment, clothing, supervision, and
safety measures.
No secret organizations The Boy Scouts of America does not recognize any secret organizations as part of its program. All aspects of the Scouting program are open to observation
by parents and leaders.
Appropriate attire Proper clothing for activities is required. For example, skinny-dipping is not appropriate as part of Scouting.
Constructive discipline Discipline used in Scouting should be constructive and reflect Scouting's values. Corporal punishment is never permitted.
Hazing prohibited Physical hazing and initiations are prohibited and may not be included as part of any Scouting activity.
Junior leader training and supervision Adult leaders must monitor and guide the leadership techniques used by junior leaders and ensure that BSA policies are followed.
Member responsibilities All members of the Boy Scouts of America are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with the principles set forth in the Scout Oath and Law.
Physical violence, hazing, bullying, theft, verbal insults, drugs, and alcohol have no place in the Scouting program and may result in the revocation of a Scout's membership in the unit.
Unit responsibilities The head of the chartered organization or chartered organization representative and the local council must approve the registration of the unit's adult
leader. Adult leaders of Scouting units are responsible for monitoring the behavior of youth members and interceding when necessary. Parents of youth members who misbehave should be informed and asked for assistance in dealing with it.
Cub Scout Leader Basic Training
Basic Leader Training is designed to give position-related information to all adult leaders in Cub Scouting. Building on the
foundation established in Fast Start Training, Basic Leader Training goes into greater detail.
Basic Leader Training has two parts
This Is Scouting is for all new leaders in Cub Scouting. It is an online interactive learning experience that is divided into six modules. It picks up
where Fast Start Training left off and introduces participants to the following areas of the Scouting Program: Mission, Vision, and Values; Programs for all Ages and Abilities; Scouting is Fun!,; Scouting in the Community; Protecting Our Youth; and
Scouting's Legacy.
This Is Scouting Training is for all program areas of Scouting and serves as an introductory session that
highlights the values, aims, history, funding, and methods of Scouting. Completion of this course is required only once during an adult leaders tenure as a Scouting leader.
If you take the test as a registered member of the BSA and designate your local council, your completion will be reported back to your council to adjust your training records. You'll be offered a certificate of completion at the end of your
online session.
Leader Specific Training gives a leader the knowledge and skills needed for a specific position. Leader Specific Training is available for the following
positions in Cub Scouting: Tiger Cub Leader, Cub Den Leader and Assistant Den Leader, Webelos Den Leader and Assistant Webelos Den Leader, Cubmaster and Assistant Cubmaster, and all Pack Committee Members, including the Pack Committee Chair.
Basic Leader Training goes into greater detail on youth development and boy behavior, program planning, activities, and the purpose of the program. Metro Lakes District Training Committee presents this training at least twice
each year. Check the Metro Lakes District Calendar by clicking here for the next Metro Lakes District Training Day.
Cub Scout Supplemental Training
Cub Scout Roundtable conducted monthly in
the Metro Lakes District on the first Thursday of each month. Cub Scout Roundtable is held at Mayflower Congregational Church - 106 East Diamond Lake Road in Minneapolis (map
it here) as a part of the Metro Lakes District Roundtable. Find out more about Metro Lakes District Roundtable here.
Cub Scout Roundtable provides all registered Scout leaders an opportunity to gain information on district and council programs and events, policies, training opportunities, and the sharing of Scouting experiences with other local Scout leaders.
Metro Lakes District Roundtable provides attendees with renewed morale, enthusiasm, inspiration, vision, and skills, techniques, information, program ideas, and knowledge to continue supporting the Scouting program for their unit, district, and
council.
University of Scouting is
held twice a year by the Northern Star Council and is specifically designed to have something for all registered Scout leaders. Hundreds of leaders from all around Northern Star Council partake each year in the Fall and Spring University of
Scouting events.
University of Scouting is the finest one-day supplemental training offered in the BSA - guaranteed to enrich your Scouting experience. This training offers a variety of courses to select from to give you additional information to help in all
areas and programs of the Scouting movement.
The Northern Star Council's University of Scouting event is the largest one-day supplemental training program anywhere University of Scouting offers something for every Scout leader with seven areas of interest: Cub Scout College,
Boy Scout College, Venturing College, Commissioner College, Sea Scouting, General College, and Doctoral Studies. Click here for the Northern Star Council - University of Scouting
page. Sign up and register today.
Guide to Safe Scouting is to prepare adult leaders to conduct Scouting activities in a safe and prudent manner. The policies and guidelines have been established
because of the real need to protect members from known hazards that have been identified through 90-plus years of experience. Limitations on certain activities should not be viewed as stumbling blocks; rather, policies and guidelines are best
described as stepping-stones toward safe and enjoyable adventures. The Guide to Safe Scouting can be viewed in one of two formats:
All volunteers participating in official Scouting activities should become familiar with the Guide to Safe Scouting
BALOO Training (Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation) is targeted at Cub Scout leaders with a desire
to plan and carry out an entry-level outdoor experience for the pack. Successful completion of this training will result in an increased level of confidence and a willingness to plan an age-appropriate pack overnighter. This training is
not intended as an overnight experience, but rather a preparation of the Cub Scout leader interested in learning about overnight camping activities.
Overnight camping by Tiger, Wolf, and Bear Cub Scouts as a den is not approved and certificates of liability insurance will not be provided by the BSA. Revised BSA Camping guidelines allow Cub Scout packs to conduct a pack
campout (overnight), as long as the activity is conducted at a council approved location (Council Scout Camp with Cub Scout programming) and is under the direction of a lead that is properly trained. BALOO Training is regularly offered at Northern
Star Council's semi-annual University of Scouting events as an all-day course.
Outdoor Leader Skills for Webelos Leaders (OWL) is
designed specifically for Webelos Den Leaders and Webelos Assistant Den Leaders to teach outdoor-related skills through demonstration and hands-on practice. Webelos Den Leaders should attend this training before conducting Webelos overnight
camping with the boys and parents of the den. In addition to covering basic camping skills, this training features planning campouts and finding resources.
Webelos den campouts serve to move the Webelos Scout to the next level of the BSA's ever-increasing challenge in the outdoors. The boy and his parent will be introduced to the basics of Boy Scout camping. A trained Webelos Leader who
has completed position-specific training and Outdoor Leader Skills for Webelos Leaders should conduct these events..
Basic Leader Training goes into greater detail on youth development and boy behavior, program planning, activities, and the purpose of the program. Outdoor Leader Skills for Webelos Leaders offered at Northern Star Council's
semi-annual University of Scouting events at least once a year. Metro Lakes District Training Committee presents this training at least once
each year as well. Check the Metro Lakes District Calendar by clicking here for the next Metro Lakes District Training Day.
Trainer's EDGE is the train-the trainer course of
the BSA. The purpose of the Trainer's EDGE course is to provide and help develop the platform skills of a trainer. It is meant to supplement the practice offered through Wood Badge and NYLT (National Youth Leadership Training) staff
development, with a focus on the participant, while raising the level of skill a trainer brings to the staff experience. Only practice can polish these skills, but this course is intended to "train the trainer" on behaviors and resources wile
offering hands-on experience in methods and media..
Cub Scout Pack Trainers are strongly encouraged to take the Trainer's Edge course. Northern Star Council offers the Trainer's EDGE training numerous time each year and can be arranged with your Metro Lakes District Training Committee
if you are interested in attending. For an understanding of the course and it's syllabus check out the Trainer's EDGE Trainers Guide here.
Wood Badge Training is advanced training in
leadership skills for all adults in BSA programs. Not only Cub Scouters, but also leaders in Boy Scouting, Varsity Scouting, Venturing, and Commissioner service are invited to participate in Wood Badge.
This advanced training is presented in two parts:
An advanced learning experience presented over two long (three-day) weekends or as a weeklong course.
An application phase of several months during which the leaders apply the specific skills they have learned at Wood Badge to their Scouting responsibilities
Leaders who successfully complete both parts of the training are recognized with the Wood Badge beads, woggle slide, and neckerchief. Wood Badge Training is offered three times a year through the Northern Star Council and more
information can be found on the Northern Star Council's website - Wood Badge pages.
Upon completion of Fast Start Training, Youth Protection Training, This Is Scouting (f/k/a New Leader
Essentials), and Cub Scout Leader Specific Training for the position in which the leader is currently registered, Ac Cub Scout leader is considered "Trained" and may wear a "Trained" emblem.
Basic Leader Training is designed to give position-related information to all adult leaders in Cub Scouting. Building on the
foundation established in Fast Start Training, Basic Leader Training goes into greater detail.
This Is Scouting Training is for all program areas of Scouting and serves as an introductory session that
highlights the values, aims, history, funding, and methods of Scouting. Completion of this course is required only once during an adult leaders tenure as a Scouting leader. 
Cub Scout Roundtable conducted monthly in
the Metro Lakes District on the first Thursday of each month. Cub Scout Roundtable is held at Mayflower Congregational Church - 106 East Diamond Lake Road in Minneapolis (
University of Scouting is
held twice a year by the Northern Star Council and is specifically designed to have something for all registered Scout leaders. Hundreds of leaders from all around Northern Star Council partake each year in the Fall and Spring University of
Scouting events. 
BALOO Training (Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation) is targeted at Cub Scout leaders with a desire
to plan and carry out an entry-level outdoor experience for the pack. Successful completion of this training will result in an increased level of confidence and a willingness to plan an age-appropriate pack overnighter. This training is
not intended as an overnight experience, but rather a preparation of the Cub Scout leader interested in learning about overnight camping activities.
Outdoor Leader Skills for Webelos Leaders (OWL) is
designed specifically for Webelos Den Leaders and Webelos Assistant Den Leaders to teach outdoor-related skills through demonstration and hands-on practice. Webelos Den Leaders should attend this training before conducting Webelos overnight
camping with the boys and parents of the den. In addition to covering basic camping skills, this training features planning campouts and finding resources. 
Trainer's EDGE is the train-the trainer course of
the BSA. The purpose of the Trainer's EDGE course is to provide and help develop the platform skills of a trainer. It is meant to supplement the practice offered through Wood Badge and NYLT (National Youth Leadership Training) staff
development, with a focus on the participant, while raising the level of skill a trainer brings to the staff experience. Only practice can polish these skills, but this course is intended to "train the trainer" on behaviors and resources wile
offering hands-on experience in methods and media..
Wood Badge Training is advanced training in
leadership skills for all adults in BSA programs. Not only Cub Scouters, but also leaders in Boy Scouting, Varsity Scouting, Venturing, and Commissioner service are invited to participate in Wood Badge.
