PARENT HANDBOOK Revised 08/01/2015

CUB SCOUT PACK 384 PARENT HANDBOOK

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome to Cub Scout Pack 384! ........................................................................................................................... 4About Our Chartered Organization ..................................................................................................................... 4 Pack Organization ................................................................................................................................................ 4

Meetings ................................................................................................................................................................. 4 Den Meetings ...................................................................................................................................................... 4 Pack Meetings ..................................................................................................................................................... 5 Attendance .......................................................................................................................................................... 5 Facility Guidelines ............................................................................................................................................... 5 Role of Siblings .................................................................................................................................................... 5

Registration and Dues ............................................................................................................................................. 6 Dues ..................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Delinquent Dues .................................................................................................................................................. 6 Cancellation ......................................................................................................................................................... 6 Financial Aid ........................................................................................................................................................ 6

The Advancement Trail ........................................................................................................................................... 7 Advancement ...................................................................................................................................................... 7 Awards ................................................................................................................................................................. 7 Arrow of Light and Bridging to Boy Scouts .......................................................................................................... 7 Cub Scout Academics and Sports Belt Loops and Pins ........................................................................................ 8

Uniform and Handbook ........................................................................................................................................... 8 Tiger, Wolf, and Bear Cub Scouts ........................................................................................................................ 8 Webelos Scouts ................................................................................................................................................... 8 Adult Leaders ...................................................................................................................................................... 9 Wearing the Uniform .......................................................................................................................................... 9 Purchasing Uniforms ......................................................................................................................................... 10 Pack Activity Shirts ............................................................................................................................................ 10 Handbook .......................................................................................................................................................... 10

Finances ................................................................................................................................................................. 10 Fundraising ........................................................................................................................................................ 10 Individual Scout Accounts ................................................................................................................................. 11 Financial Records ............................................................................................................................................... 11 Donations .......................................................................................................................................................... 11

Health and Safety .................................................................................................................................................. 11 Guide to Safe Scouting ...................................................................................................................................... 11 Two-Deep Leadership........................................................................................................................................ 12 Youth Protection ............................................................................................................................................... 12 Behavior and Discipline ..................................................................................................................................... 12 Electronic Equipment ........................................................................................................................................ 13 Scout Sign .......................................................................................................................................................... 13 Camping............................................................................................................................................................. 13 Drug, Alcohol & Tobacco Use ............................................................................................................................ 13 Knives & Firearms .............................................................................................................................................. 14 Aquatic Activities ............................................................................................................................................... 14

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Talent Release, Photographs and Video ........................................................................................................... 14 Consent Form and Permission Slips .................................................................................................................. 14 Health Forms and Medical Information ............................................................................................................ 14 Spectator Conduct ............................................................................................................................................. 15

Adult Leaders, Parents, and Guardians ................................................................................................................. 15 Parent/Guardian Participation .......................................................................................................................... 15 Divorced/Separated Parents ............................................................................................................................. 15 Communication ................................................................................................................................................. 16 Adult Leaders .................................................................................................................................................... 16 Pack Committee Meetings ................................................................................................................................ 17

Right to Appeal ...................................................................................................................................................... 17

Withdrawal from Pack 384 .................................................................................................................................... 17

The 10 Commandments for Cub Scout Parents .................................................................................................... 18

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WELCOME TO CUB SCOUT PACK384!We’re glad that your family has joined Scouting and we hope you and your son will have a great

adventure with Cub Scout Pack 384. We have beenmeeting in Temeculasince 2014 and continueto thrive due to the dedication of our volunteer leaders and parents like you! We all believe that Scouting is an

important part of the physical, mental, and spiritual development of our boys.

Pack 384 is in the Tahquitz District of theCalifornia Inland Empire Council, Boy Scouts of America. The California Inland Empire Council covers the geographic region of Riverside and San Bernardino counties. The Council’s web site is http://www.bsa-ciec.org

About Our Chartered Organization All Cub Scout Packs are associated with a chartering organization that sponsors them, provides meeting facilities, and approves the selection of leaders. Pack 384 is chartered by Rancho Community Church.The Mission Statement of Rancho Community church is as follows:"Rancho Community Church is called by God to grow together as a community of committed, caring followers of Jesus Christ on a journey toward His likeness.”Pack384 embraces this Mission statement and incorporates it into the Pack’s own mission.

Pack Organization A group of approximately 5 to 10 scouts of the same age who are working on earning the same rank make up a den. All of the dens together make up the pack.

Each den has a Den Leader and Assistant Den Leader. These leaders plan and execute the weekly den meetings.

A Pack Committee consisting of interested parents, leaders, and members of the chartered organization are responsible to support the pack in areas such as planning and implementing pack activities, fundraising events, field trips, outings, camping trips, banquets, derbies, etc.

The Cubmaster and Assistant Cubmasters plan and execute monthly pack meetings around monthly themes. The Cubmaster, Assistant Cubmasters, and Pack Trainer work to support the den leaders and encourage and provide training relevant to the leader’s position.

MEETINGS Pack meetings are held on the Fourth Tuesdayof the month at RCS, beginning at 6:30 PM.Meetings last approximately one hour.

During the school year pack meetings are held at Rancho Community Church and Schools inthe Elementary Assembly Room. When the schoolis observing a holiday and is closed (Thanksgiving, Christmas/New Year, Easter, etc.) there will be no den or pack meetings.

All meetings are posted in the Event Calendar on the pack web site.

Den Meetings Den meetings are held weekly or bi-weekly andprovide your son with opportunities to enjoy various planned activities, learn new skills, and have great fun. While parental attendance is not required at den meetings (except for Tiger Cubs), it is certainly encouraged! Some dens will require parent participation at specific meetings. Please keep in touch with your son's den leader so that you will know what activities are taking place and can track the progress your son is making. Den meeting locations are at the discretion of the den leader and will be included on the event calendar.

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Pack Meetings Once a month all dens get together for a pack meeting, which all Cub Scouts and their families are encouraged to attend. The pack meeting is a fun time for everyone. Dens show off the projects they have been working on, lead songs, perform skits, and awards are presented to the scouts. It is a time for the family to get information on upcoming activities and share in the Scouting spirit. Be sure to attend and join in the excitement while watching your son advance!

Awards are a very important part of the Scouting program. They are intended to help build self-esteem by providing recognition for a scout’s hard work.

We encourage you to applaud, whistle, and cheer for all of the scouts as they are presented with their awards at pack meetings. Scouts can also howl or growl like a Tiger, Wolf, or a Bear to celebrate another scout’s accomplishments.

The pack meeting is usually the last Tuesday of each month but may change due to legal holidays or other events.

It is the responsibility of everyone in the pack to assist with cleanup following the pack meeting, especially when refreshments have been served.

Attendance Each registered Cub Scout is expected to attend all scheduled den meetings, pack meetings and outings. Scouts must attend a minimum of 50% of the den meetings, pack meetings, and other activities to be considered active. If three (3) consecutive meetings are missed and there is no communication with the den leader, the Cub Scout will be put on an inactive list for “lack of interest”. Parents should contact the den leader if multiple meetings will be missed.

Don't let a sports season end a Scouting career. We realize how important sports and other seasonal or short-term activities are to the boys and their families. Please try to participate as often as you can, even if you have to show up late and in your soccer uniform! And plan to get back into the

swing of things as soon as you can. Our leaders will be happy to help your son get caught up with the rest of the den.

Facility Guidelines We are fortunate to use the facilities at Rancho Community Church at no cost. We have a traditionof respecting property and do not wish to reflect negatively on Scouting or our chartered organization.

We understand that "boys will be boys" and outbursts of enthusiasm will occur. However, we are guests in these facilities! Please avoid running and yelling and do your best to keep everything neat and clean. Please ask your scout to stay away from any school equipment that may be present while we are meeting.

We always provide all of our own materials for our programs, so there should never be any need to use any of the school’s materials. Please leave the facilities set up the way you found them, or even neater than you found.

Pack 384 is committed to act responsibly to showour respect to school and park property and to prevent as much damage as possible. We will clean, repair, replace, or reimburse for any damage we cause. If you see any problems, please alert the den leaders or the Cubmaster right away!

You can help by talking frankly with your son about the importance of respecting property and what his responsibilities are. We want to remain a welcome part of our community!

Role of Siblings We know that it may be difficult for parents to attend meetings without the scout’s siblings. Remember that the meetings are to help the scouts learn and grow. Please do not expect leaders to oversee siblings. Den leaders plan crafts

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and activities to suit only scouts that are present. Please bring things for your other child(ren) to quietly enjoy and we will do our best to include them in our activities if/when appropriate. Additionally, please remember that NO child is to be outside unattended and Youth Protection policies apply to all children.

REGISTRATION AND DUES The pack’s charter year runs from January 1 to December 31 every year. The pack must “recharter” with the Council in November, so annual dues are collected from parents in August.

Dues Dues are used to fund pack expenses from August (including paying the recharter fee to

Council) through July of the following year. Pack dues are reviewed each year and may change based on a number of factors. The Pack Committee will announce the next year’s dues no later than August 1and will post the information on the web site. The pack encourages all scouts to re-register for the next year

at our annual membership night held during the first half of August.

Dues include:

BSA national youth registration

BSA insurance (for scouts, leaders andpack)

Boys’ Life magazine

awards

Blue & Gold necessities

den supplies

leader registration

leader training

pack program expenses

Scouts who start during the program year will pay prorated dues, determined by the pack at the time of registration.

There are no refunds of dues once paid. If a scout transfers to another pack or troop during the paid year, no personal refunds will be made.

There are outings that may have fees to attend which are not included in the annual dues. Costs for these will vary depending upon the event and any sponsorship received. The pack will work to reduce or eliminate as much of these costs as possible.

Delinquent Dues If a Cub Scout’s dues are delinquent, he will be placed on an “inactive” status list and suspended from all den and pack activities. Any awards earned will be withheld by the pack until dues are paid in full. When the dues are paid in full, or a Financial Assistance request is made and approved, the scout may resume participation. Any awards earned during this time will be presented during the following pack meeting.

Because of insurance liability, scouts who have not made at least a partial payment of the registration fee for the current charter year will not be allowed to participate in scout activities. Unregistered scouts are not members of BSA and cannot earn badges or awards of any kind (the Council records system will not accept their entries).

Cancellation If a scout signs up for an outing or event and is unable to attend, he is still expected to pay any fees associates with the outing. A scout can work to find another scout in the pack to take his place.

Financial Aid We realize that every family’s circumstances are different and that participation may present a financial hardship for a family. No boy will be denied the Scouting experience for financial reasons. If your family’s situation is such that you require assistance with any financial aspect of Scouting, please see the Cubmaster, the Committee Chairperson, or the Treasurer. Your request will be handled confidentially.

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Financial aid may vary based on each request and available funds. Repayment of aid may include repayment over time and volunteering of time. If a scout receives financial aid, and then does not attend the specified activity, parents are responsible for refunding that financial aid.

THE ADVANCEMENT TRAIL The Advancement Trail is designed for parents to use to create a learning environment in their home. With the Cub Scout Handbook as a resource, parents and scouts work together to complete the achievements required for each badge. The Advancement Trail provides fun for the boys, gives them a sense of personal achievement as they earn badges, and strengthens family understanding as adult family members work with their scouts on advancement projects. As each task is done or each skill is demonstrated, the parent signs the Cub Scout Handbook to record its completion. It is also important for the scout to take his handbook to den meetings to allow the den leader to see the parent’s sign-off on the achievements.

Advancement All rank advancement must be turned in to the den leader at least two weeks before a packmeeting. The leaders must turn in an advancement report to the Advancement Chairman on that date in order to get the awards in time for the pack meeting. If your son has worked on his advancement, make sure he brings his book (signed by you where applicable) to the meetings. The den leader is required to do the final sign-off for all advancement.

If the advancement is not turned at least two weeks before the pack meeting, the award cannotbe presented to the scout until the next pack meeting, which will certainly be a big disappointment to your son. Scouting is a family adventure and your assistance and cooperation is essential to your son's success in earning his rank.

The standard to apply when determining if your son has accomplished an achievement or elective is simply “did he do his best?” While that is

somewhat subjective, and obviously not the same from boy to boy, it is the standard used in Cub Scouts. As such, that is why advancement is something to be done under the parent’s guidance, where he/she signs off in the handbook as the “Akela”.

Each scout has until the last meeting in May to earn his current rank badge. If there are extenuating circumstances, please contact the Cubmaster as soon as possible.

Awards The pack pays for all awards and presents them to the uniformed scout at pack and den meetings. The pack does not cover the cost of replacement awards. In some cases a scout may repeatedly earn an award; however, only a single award is presented by the pack.

Check your handbook and the pack web site for information on various awards your son can earn. Not all awards can be worn on the uniform shirt. For information on where these items belong on the shirt, go to http://bsauniforms.org or ask a den leader or the Cubmaster.

Arrow of Light and Bridging to Boy Scouts We aim to have the Webelos complete their Arrow of Light award by the end of December of their

Webelos 2 year, thus allowing them time to proudly wear the award as a Cub Scout.

The goal of the Webelos program is to prepare boys to succeed as Boy Scouts. As such, and in line with the standard Boy Scout troop program, our pack “bridges” the boys to their new troop as part of the annual Blue and Gold banquet in February. This is the appropriate time to bring the new boys into the troop, as the troop program at that time expects incoming scouts, and can integrate them into the troop with their peers in time to get them ready for summer camp. Bridging prior to completing the 2nd year of Webelos and without buddies has been shown not to be the best for the

boys. Enjoy the full Cub Scout experience; there is PLENTY of time to earn that Eagle Scout award.

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UNIFORM AND HANDBOOK The Boy Scouts of America is a uniformed organization. We encourage you to acquire a uniform for your son by his second pack meeting after joining so that he may proudly wear his Bobcat badge and other awards on it.

Tiger, Wolf, and Bear Cub Scouts The Cub Scout uniform consists of the following parts:

Shirt – Official navy blue Cub Scout shortsleeve uniform shirt. Shirts are always

worn tucked in. Note: your scout will wear this shirt from 1st through 3rd grade, so purchase a larger size for younger boys and he will have room to grow into the shirt.

Pants / shorts – Official navy blue CubScout pants / shorts. Also acceptable arenavy blue pants / shorts. Pants / shortsshould be free of holes, stains, etc.

Belt – Official navy blue web belt with CubScout emblem buckle. Note: Tiger Cubsshould purchase the Cub Scout emblembuckle.

Shoes and Socks – Any stable closed-toeshoe is appropriate. In some events, suchas hiking, the scout may benefit fromactivity-specific shoes, but this iscompletely at the discretion of the parents.Clean socks should always be worn withthe shoes. The official Cub Scout socks areoptional.

Cap – Official Cub Scout cap with dencolors and emblem for Tiger (orange), Wolf(yellow), or Bear (blue).

Neckerchief – Official Cub Scoutneckerchief withden colors andemblem for Tiger(orange), Wolf(yellow), or Bear(blue). OfficialCub Scoutneckerchiefs arethe onlyneckerchiefs boysshould wear.

Neckerchief slide – Official Cub Scout slidewith the den emblem. Boys may also wearhandmade neckerchief slides.

Webelos Scouts The Webelos Scout uniform consists of the following parts:

Shirt – Official tan Boy Scout short sleeveuniform shirt. It is worn with blue shoulderloops. Shirts are always worn tucked in.

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Pants / shorts – Official Boy Scout olivegreen pants or shorts. Pants / shortsshould be free of holes, stains, etc.

Belt – Official olive greenweb belt or navy blue CubScout belt. The Webelosemblem belt buckle isworn with either belt.Note: the Webelos beltbuckle will fit either thenavy blue or the olivegreen belt, but the adventurebelt loop recognitions only fiton the blue belt.

Shoes and Socks – Any stable closed-toeshoe is appropriate. In some events, suchas hiking, the scout may benefit fromactivity-specific shoes, but this iscompletely at the discretion of the parents.Clean socks should always be worn withthe shoes. The official Boy Scout socks areoptional.

Cap – Official plaid cap with Webelosemblem.

Neckerchief – Official plaid neckerchiefwith the Webelos emblem. Official BSAneckerchiefs are the only neckerchiefsboys should wear.

Neckerchief slide – Official gold-tone metalslide with the Webelos emblem. Boys mayalso wear handmade neckerchief slides.

Adult Leaders The adult leader uniform consists of the following parts:

Shirt – Adult leaders (male and female)wear the tan Boy Scout uniform shirt. It isworn with blue shoulder loops.

Pants / shorts – Adult leaders (male andfemale) wear the official Boy Scout olivegreen pants or shorts. Pants / shortsshould be free of holes, stains, etc.

Belt – Official olive green web belt orofficial leather belt is worn with thetan/olive uniform. The BSA emblem beltbuckle is worn with the belt.

Shoes and Socks – Any stable closed-toeshoe is appropriate. In some events, suchas hiking, the adult leader may benefitfrom activity-specific shoes, but this iscompletely at their discretion. Clean socksshould always be worn with the shoes. Theofficial Boy Scout socks are optional.

Cap – Optional. Den level or BSA cap.

Neckerchief – Optional. Navy blue CubScout Leader, plaid Webelos Leader, orWoodbadge (if earned) neckerchief.Official BSA neckerchiefs are the onlyneckerchiefs that should be worn.

Neckerchief slide – Optional. Official gold-tone metal slide with the den emblem,official BSA slide, or Woodbadge (if earned)slide. Adult leaders may also wearhandmade neckerchief slides.

Note: Only registered pack and den adult leaders should wear the BSA uniform. All other adults should wear their pack activity shirts (also referred to as a "Class B" t-shirt) to all pack and den activities.

Wearing the Uniform Every Cub Scout should wear his uniform (also referred to as a "Class A" uniform) to all Cub Scouting activities, including den and pack meetings, outings, parades, flag ceremonies, and any activities done with members of the den or pack, unless otherwise noted by a den leader or the Cubmaster. When playing sports, going to camp, or participating in other physical activities, the pack or den may opt to have the Cub Scouts wear an activity shirt (also referred to as a "Class B" t-shirt). Den and pack leaders will provide advance notice of any occasion when the boys should wear anything other than the complete uniform.

Here are some tips for wearing the uniform:

DO keep the uniform clean and in goodrepair. The official uniform is a sturdy,machine-washable garment that will lastfor years with proper care.

DO be sure to wear the complete uniform.A Cub Scout wearing a uniform with partsmissing is not in uniform.

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DO securely fasten rank insignia patchesand award patches to the uniform (sewingis preferred) as soon as possible afterreceiving them. (Rancho Army-Navy Storein Temecula has a seamstress availablethat can sew the patches onto the uniformin the proper place for a modest fee. Alocal tailor can also sew patches onto theuniform, but may need to be instructed asto placement.)

DO NOT wear non-BSA badges, patches,awards, or insignia (such as fun patchesfrom an activity) on the Cub Scout uniformor make any alterations to the uniform orinsignia. These should be worn on a "bragvest," sweatshirt, or some other non-uniform apparel.

DO NOT mix uniform parts with non-uniform clothing, such as wearing auniform cap with other clothing. Theuniform should be treated as a unit – wornin its entirety, or not at all.

DO NOT wear uniform partsinappropriately or disrespectfully, such aswearing the uniform cap backwards.

Any time you are uncertain about uniform regulations, ask the den leader or Cubmaster for guidance.

Purchasing Uniforms Locally, uniforms may be purchased at Rancho Army-Navy Store in Temecula. They also have a seamstress available that can sew the patches onto the uniform in the proper place for a modest fee.

The California Inland Empire Council operates Scout Shops in Redlands and Montclair. Neighboring areas also have Scout Shops, such as Orange County and San Diego County.

Online purchases can be made at ScoutStuff.org, the official BSA online retail site.

Please consult your den leader or Cubmaster prior to purchasing a uniform, for a current list of needed items.

Pack Activity Shirts Pack activity shirts, also referred to as “Class B” t-shirts, serve as a non-formal uniform for scouts, leaders, parents, and siblings. All family members are encouraged to purchase activity shirts and wear them to all den and pack events and outings. These shirts are available for purchase through group orders, usually soon after Spring and Fall recruitment nights. Prices may change based on order size. Please contact your den leader or Cubmaster for details.

Handbook Owning a copy of the handbook for their rank is important. The book provides the requirements for each activity and a place to record progress. Each scout is expected to own a copy of the handbook appropriate for their rank and to bring the handbook to each den meeting. Scouts should write their names in permanent ink on the title page (inside the book) in the space provided for this purpose.

The handbooks are sold in two different bindings: a traditional paperback binding and a spiral binding. We recommend purchasing the paperback binding. While neither binding is perfect and 100% resistant to a boy's use, the paperback binding tends to hold up better over the course of the year; the spiral binding has a tendency for pages to tear out easily and be lost. This is even more important with the Webelos Handbook since it is used for 18 months.

FINANCES

Fundraising Fundraising plays an important role in Scouting. All scouts are expected to participate. Fundraising builds self-confidence, business skills, and helps reduce the costs of Scouting for parents.

Pack 384 uses the annual Trails End Popcornfundraiser program that supports both the California Inland Empire Council and Pack 384. The revenueraised from the popcorn sale (approximately 30%

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of sales, less pack costs if any) will be used to help offset the cost of future Scouting events and needs. The earnest efforts of all scouts are needed for participation in this activity. Other fundraisers may be necessary if enough funds are not raised to cover pack expenses.

Any and all bounced check fees will be the responsibility of the parent/guardian. Cash or money orders are preferred.

Individual Scout Accounts Individual Scout Accounts serve as a motivator for scouts to reach their full potential. They “earn their way” in Scouting by selling to fund their own Scouting year. Accounts run from November to October and will roll over based on Pack Committee review and approval.

Through this Individual Scout Account, boys can pay for scouting costs and fees including summer camp, trips, uniform costs, registration, Boys’ Life magazine, dues and program extras with prior committee approval.

Scouts in good standing that bridge over to a Boy Scout troop or transfer to another Cub Scout pack, may request that a check for any positive balance in their Individual Scout Account be forwarded to the new troop or pack they join. This request must be received by the Cubmaster or Pack Committee Chair within 30 days of the transfer. There will be no personal refunds of Individual Scout Accounts. Scout accounts are built to help the scout grow in Scouting only.

Financial Records Pack 384 financial records are maintained by thePack Treasurer and the accounting department of Rancho Community Church. The Pack Committeewill ensure access to detailed financial records at any time and hopes that each parent will have at least a high-level awareness of the pack finances. The treasurer reports all income and expenses at pack committee meetings, and summaries of the pack’s finances

will be reported regularly. A pack budget is updated at least once a year. Parents are encouraged to participate in planning sessions related to the pack finances. Any questions regarding the pack finances may be directed to the pack treasurer or pack committee chairperson.

Donations Donations are always welcome and certain donations may be tax-deductible. Contact the pack treasurer for more information.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Guide to Safe Scouting The Guide to Safe Scouting (GSS) prepares members of the BSA 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 over 100 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.

All adults should become familiar with the Guide to Safe Scouting and be aware of state or local government regulations that supersede BSA policies and guidelines. The GSS provides an overview of Scouting policies and procedures rather than comprehensive, standalone documentation. For some items, the policy statements are complete. Leaders are expected to review the additional reference material cited prior to conducting such activities.

All leaders are expected to be familiar with the GSS and follow it strictly! Any leaders having questions related to the interpretation of any safety guidelines or questions related to a planned activity which they believe could pose an increased risk of harm to scouts must discuss planned

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activities with the Cubmaster or Pack Committee prior to the activity.

There is a link to the GSS on the pack web site.

Non-adherence to the Guide to Safe Scouting puts leaders at personal liability risk, and that’s no small matter in this day and age!

Two-Deep Leadership All dens must maintain two-deep leadership at all times. If for some reason a den is not be able to have two registered leaders present, the den leader will have to cancel the meeting or activity. Please do your part to help us provide a quality program by signing up to be an Assistant Den Leader. Our pack is entirely dependent upon volunteers to operate. None of our leaders are paid Scouters.

Youth Protection Pack 384, along with the entire Boy Scoutmovement, takes Youth Protection very seriously. We know that you love your son and would never want anything bad to happen to him. Neither do we. In an effort to ensure the safety of all scouts in our pack, as well as any other scouts and children that may participate with us in activities, Pack 384 hasadopted the following policy:

In order to protect our Cub Scouts, their siblings, and all other children in our community, Cub Scout Pack 384 requests that all adults involved inour pack take Youth Protection Training and provide a copy of their certificate to their son's den leader. This applies to all leaders, parents, and volunteers involved in Pack 384.

Youth Protection Training (YPT) is required for submitting any Adult Application for a leadership position. YPT is also required for any adult that wishes to participate in any day camp or overnight camping activity. All adults are expected to be familiar with Youth Protection policies and follow them strictly!

YPT is online training that takes about 30-45 minutes to complete. In this training, you will learn about the Youth Protection policies of BSA, how to spot abuse, and how to handle and report violations of Youth Protection. There is no cost to take YPT, and it can be taken by anyone, whether or not you are a registered adult. A link to YPT is available on the pack web site.

Behavior and Discipline Behavior is a synonym for a word that has fallen on hard times, and that word is discipline. Often times discipline is thought of in a negative form (namely punishment). But the word actually means “training” or “a system of rules governing conduct”.

The first form of discipline, which is the most important, is self-discipline. Lacking that, the den leaders have direct responsibility for maintaining the behavior of the boys in their den. Please have your scout "do his best!"

Rather than attempt to enumerate a complete list of “do’s and don’ts”, the following principles apply with regards to expectations on behavior:

Scouts are expected to act like scouts. Therest of the world has a reasonably accurateconcept of how a scout should act, andyour son should have that concept as well.

A scout’s conduct should never besomething that would bring discredit tothemselves, their den, pack, or the BoyScouts of America.

Fighting / bullying or any form of physicalor non-physical harassment, includingverbal harassment, will not be tolerated.

If it is not allowed at school, it is notallowed at Cub Scouts. This includes,running in the building, being outsidewithout a parent, or bringing a knife onschool property.

Please take the time to discuss with your son the importance of not disrupting den and pack meetings. It’s not fair to the other boys and the leaders for activities and meetings to be interrupted due to behavior issues.

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If a boy becomes a behavior problem that the den leader cannot handle, the Cubmaster will be informed; the scout may be asked to leave the meeting. A parent / leader meeting will be held to discuss the problem and possible action. If the behavior problem is severe enough, the Cubmaster may suspend the scout from all den and pack activities until the next Pack Committee Meeting, where the issue will be discussed with the parent and the Committee, and next steps will be determined. If the scout is retained in the pack, a letter will be sent to the parent/guardian explaining exactly what is expected for future behavior. If the problem cannot be resolved to the satisfaction of all concerned, the scout may be asked to leave the pack.

Electronic Equipment Scout use of iPods/music players, electronic games, cell phones/smartphones, iPads/tablets, laptop computers, etc. is not allowed on den or pack outings. Scout use of cell phones/smartphones and iPads/tablets is only allowed at den or pack meetings with special permission.

Adults should set a good example for the scouts and limit use of electronic equipment during den or pack outings, meetings, or other events. However, adult use is allowed as long as it is not a distraction to the scouts.

Scout Sign Cub Scouts learn the “Scout Sign” very early. (With your right hand facing away from you, extend your index and middle fingers to form a ‘V’ and curl the remaining fingers into the palm of the hand.) The Scout Sign has a very important use during den and pack meetings. Whenever a leader puts the Scout Sign up, the scouts, parents, and other leaders are expected to become quiet and also put the ‘sign up’. This allows the leaders to bring a room to order very quickly, without having to say a word. Please make sure that your son understands how to behave when ‘signs up’.

Camping Scouting is an outdoor-based program. Camping is permitted by Cub Scouts only in an age-appropriate context. Scouts must have an adult family member with them at all times when camping. If your scout wishes to attend only the daytime activities of a family campout you must make prior arrangements with another adult to take responsibility for your son if you cannot stay with him. You will need to fill out a permission slip for your son with all of the necessary emergency information included.

Please do not ask the den leader or Cubmaster to take responsibility for your son. It is not possible for the leaders to conduct the program, watch their own children, and be responsible for your child.

All camping is in accordance with BSA policy, as spelled out in the GSS. Part of this policy includes two-deep leadership. In addition, for pack camping (which is open to all dens and all family members) at least one leader must have completed Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO). For Webelos den camping (which is open to just Webelos Scouts and parents) at least one leader must have completed Outdoor Leader Skills for Webelos Leaders (OWL).

BSA has specific rules and prohibitions with respect to camping, which will be reviewed by your leader prior to each event.

Consult the GSS for further information.

Drug, Alcohol & Tobacco Use Illegal drugs and alcohol are not allowed at any Scouting event and persons under the influence of drugs or alcohol are not allowed to participate or be present at any Scouting functions. Any violation of this rule will result in immediate dismissal from the event and possible intervention by law enforcement.

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Scouting provides a tobacco-free environment for the boys and smoking is not allowed in the presence of the scouts. If you must smoke or use tobacco products, please do so outside and out-of-sight of the boys. Always remember to keep the area free of cigarette butts and trash.

Consult the GSS for further information.

Knives & Firearms No fixed-blade sheath knives are allowed on any scout activity. A Cub Scout can only carry a pocket knife once he has learned the safety rules for using a knife and earns his Whittlin' Chip card in the Bear den or Webelos den. Knives can then only be used under direct adult supervision. If a scout is found handling his knife improperly, it will be taken away from him and given to the parents. Each time this happens a corner of the Whittlin’ Chip card is to be snipped off. If all corners are removed the Scout no longer is allowed this privilege. In addition, any adult who sees a scout with a knife can ask him to produce his Whittlin’ Chip. If he cannot do so, the knife will be taken away from him and given to his parents.

Knives are not allowed to be carried by scouts on Rancho Community Church property.

Archery equipment, air rifles and B-B guns are not allowed in the Cub Scout program except under stringent supervision by a trained adult on a safe firing range at a council or district-sponsored event. Pistols are not allowed.

Firearms are not allowed except under certain demonstration conditions and can only be handled by qualified adults. Use of firearms by Cub Scouts is not allowed. Contact the Cubmaster before planning any den meetings that involve firearms. Except for sworn law enforcement officers, there are to be no firearms at any event.

Consult the GSS for further information.

Aquatic Activities All aquatic activities must be supervised by trained, qualified adults while strictly following the BSA's Safe Swim Defense Plan for swimming activities and Safety Afloat Plan for boating. There are no exceptions! Contact the Cubmaster before planning any den meetings that involve aquatic activities.

Consult the GSS for further information.

Talent Release, Photographs and Video Talent Release from Photographs and Video must be provided and updated every year. This form deems that any pictures or videos taken may be used by Pack 384 without compensation at thecurrent time or any other time thereafter. Please give advanced written notice to the Cubmaster or pack committee if you would rather not have photographs and/or videos used for these purposes. However, this will not stop the taking of photographs and/or videos; it will only restrict the end use by our pack.

Consent Form and Permission Slips The Council requires every scout have a Consent Form for Scouting Participation on file with the pack before participating in any event.

Other activities may require separate permission slips for other organizations. The scout must have a permission slip signed and returned to the leader of the activity in order to participate.

Health Forms and Medical Information BSA Health Form Parts A and B must be provided and updated every year for the scout and any family members (including adults and siblings) that attend any campout or engaged event.

In some cases, Part C may be necessary, which requires a doctor’s signature. You will be informed if your scout will be participating in an event requiring Part C.

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Spectator Conduct Everyone attending any Scouting event or function is required to behave appropriately. Verbal abuse and/or aggressive behavior will not be tolerated and will result in removal from the event or function. No refunds or apologies will be issued – NO EXCEPTIONS! In Scouting, the most important thing is not winning or losing, it is to have fun and “Do Your Best”. The decision of designated judges and leaders are final and should be respected.

ADULT LEADERS, PARENTS, AND

GUARDIANS

Parent/Guardian Participation Cub Scouting encourages closeness to family. There is an opportunity for families to earn a Scouting award together (the BSA Family award). Some specific things you can do to help your son in Cub Scouting are:

Work with your son on projects. It is veryimportant that parents do not “do” theprojects for their son. We don’t wantperfection, just their best effort.

Help your Cub Scout along theadvancement trail.

Participate in monthly pack meetings.

Be an active participant in the packcommittee.

Go on family campouts with your son.

Provide support for your son’s den andpack.

Boys often begin projects at den meetings and finish them at home with the help of a parent. If a scout needs to finish a project at home, the scout will then be required to show the finished project to his den at the next meeting. The purpose of a project is to teach a boy new skills. Projects will challenge a boy to do tasks that he hasn’t already mastered. However, it is not uncommon for a boy to need help from his family to complete some of his projects. In Cub Scouting, boys are not expected to do things entirely on their own. As long as a boy does his best to complete as much as he’s capable

of, it’s perfectly acceptable for a parent or sibling to help him.

The den meetings often require that both the scout and parent work together. The pack meeting is for the family of every Cub Scout. Pack meetings highlight how Cub Scouting teaches the boys cooperation and collaboration. The pack meeting is also a monthly showcase for all that the boys have worked on during their den meetings, their awards earned, craft projects are on display, skills are demonstrated, and skits are performed to show the boy’s command of the monthly theme. Your attendance at these meetings is beneficial to your scout. It stresses the importance of the lessons your son has learned.

Be an active participant in the pack. Attending the monthly Pack Committee Meeting is an excellent way to help guide the entire pack and impact your son’s Scouting experience.

Divorced/Separated Parents When we talk about "family" in Cub Scouting, we're sensitive to the realities of present-day families. Many Cub Scouts do not come from traditional two-parent homes. Some boys live with a single parent or with other relatives or guardians. Cub Scouting considers a boy's family to be the people with whom he lives.

Pack 384 is concerned with the boy’s benefit inScouting. The pack will treat each parent as an equal no matter their marriage status. Step-parents will also be treated as equals as long as no conflict ensues.

If there is a conflict between parents or step-parents, the person who is the main source of the conflict will be asked to leave the event. A meeting may be called between a parent or parents and pack leadership to evaluate the situation and come to a resolution that is in the boy’s best interest.

The only exclusion the pack will make is if there is a legal judgment against a parent. If this situation exists, please bring it to the attention of the den leader or Cubmaster. The situation will be dealt with in the strictest of confidence.

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Communication Communication is at the heart of every successful organization, including Cub Scouts. We want to avoid using meetings for the purpose of communicating information. The pack meetings and den meetings are for fun, not announcements.

Our pack leverages two primary forms of communication:

Email

Pack Troop Track web site

Email is used as the primary communication method between leaders and parents. It is expected that at least one parent has an email

account and checks it regularly. If a parent does not have a reliable email account, one should be set up with a free email provider. Failing to check email and respond in a timely manner may

result in your son not being able to participate in an activity.

If you do not have internet access or a smartphone (iPhone, Android, Windows Phone, BlackBerry, etc.), please talk with the Committee Chair tomake alternate arrangements.

Pack 384 maintains a web site as a mechanism tokeep parents, scouts, leaders, and members of our chartered organization informed of our activities, progress, and changes of plan. The address of the web site is https://pack384.trooptrack.comWe encourage parents to bookmark this site and check it often – it’s an excellent tool for us to keep you up to date. The pack event calendar is maintained on this web site.

Adult Leaders An Adult Application and Youth Protection Training (YPT) are required for all adult leaders. Adult

leaders are the essential ingredients in running a quality Cub Scout program. There are many, many needs and parents are encouraged to sign

up for one or more of these positions and committees:

Committee Chairperson

Cubmaster

Assistant Cubmaster

Treasurer

Secretary

Advancement Chairperson

Public Relations Chairperson

Outdoor Activity Chairperson

Membership Chairperson

Pack Trainer

Tiger Den Leader

Tiger Den Assistant Leader

Wolf Den Leader

Wolf Den Assistant Leader

Bear Den Leader

Bear Den Assistant Leader

Webelos Den Leader

Webelos Den Assistant Leader

Fundraising Committee Chairperson

Pinewood Derby Chairperson

Blue and Gold Chairperson

Adult leaders, who in the opinion of the Pack Committee and/or the Chartered Organization Representative are not fulfilling their obligation to the pack, will be contacted by the Committee Chairperson for a discussion of the situation. If the circumstances warrant, the pack committee may vote to remove the person from their leadership position in the pack, and appoint a replacement. In those cases involving a committee member, final action will be taken by the Chartered Organization Representative.

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Pack Committee Meetings Pack committee meetings give adult leaders and

parents the opportunity to plan outings, review the budget, etc. This is open to all parents of the pack only; no children please. The Pack Committee normally meets once per

month. Check the pack web site Event Calendar for information about the date, time, and meeting location.

The meeting agenda will be posted on the pack web site event calendar at least 48 hours before the pack committee meeting. Any additions to the agenda should be given to the committee chair at least 72 hours prior to the meeting. Minutes from previous meeting will be posted to the pack web site at least 48 hours before the pack committee meeting.

The pack committee makes decisions through motions, seconds, discussion, and amendments to motions. Verbal votes will be taken on motions. If the verbal vote is too close to call a tally of hands will be taken.

RIGHT TO APPEAL All members of Pack 384 – scouts and adults –have the right to appeal a decision. Proper chain of command includes:

1. Den leader2. Cubmaster3. Pack committee4. Chartered Organization Representative5. BSA Council

A person may request to be heard by the entire pack committee concerning any matter that they feel was not justly or fairly handled. They are expected to abide by the findings and rulings of the committee on the matter, or escalate it to the Council for further consideration.

WITHDRAWAL FROM PACK 384We believe Cub Scouts offers a great deal of positive benefits for boys. If there is a conflict or other interpersonal issue, please talk to us about it. If we can’t resolve the issue in our pack, we would be happy to help you find a pack that would be better for you. We would rather see your son continue in Cub Scouts in another pack than withdraw entirely.

We also realize that families may have other reasons for withdrawing from Cub Scouts. If you must withdraw, please let us know through a letter of explanation to the Cubmaster or Pack Committee. This letter will be reviewed and used to help make any necessary improvement to our program.

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THE 10 COMMANDMENTS FOR CUB SCOUT PARENTS 1. Thou shall be prompt in arrivals and departures – also in turning in monies or forms due, orresponding to email from leaders. Prompt arrival ensures activities get started on time and your scout doesn't miss anything. Picking up your scout on time allows the leaders to pick up their scout and get on with their life. Getting monies and forms on time enables the leaders to make effective use of their time and energy in planning and delivering a quality program that benefits the entire group.

2. Thou shall see that thy scout arrives in uniform with appropriate supplies.Uniforms are easy enough to remember when you're playing sports, but may get forgotten for those weekly meetings. Uniforms create a sense of belonging to the group and build a sense of pride as your scout shows off his awards and accomplishments.

You wouldn’t show up to sports without the right clothing and supporting equipment. Cub Scouts is no different. Be sure they have their handbook every week.

3. Thou shall not wait to be called upon to help.Plan on staying at meetings to help once in a while. Often times with a pack this size, on any given evening there is a need for additional adult help.

We are all busy, but a little help goes a long way. If every parent who's involved puts in a little effort it would go a long way with the volunteers who make your son’s den and pack possible.

4. Thou shall take time at home to help thy scout with his achievements.Leaders cannot possibly do all achievements at their meetings without boredom soon setting in and lack of time to complete everything. Some achievements must be done at home. The same goes with practice for any sport or requirements for any club. Your child spends a limited time at Cub Scouts. To get the most from his experience, he will need to put in some time at home.

5. Thou shall accompany thy scout to events.If thou cannot, thou shall make arrangements with another parent to take responsibility for your scout’s transportation and behavior. This other parent is NOT to be the leader.

Leaders already put in a lot of time to assure your scout has a quality program. They have a lot to organize for any event they attend. Don't add to that. Finding another parent to help you out allows the leader to concentrate on his or her own duties.

An important note: be sure the leader knows if your scout will be going home with another parent.

6. Thou shall keep thy own scout under control when you are present at functions.It is awkward for a leader to reprimand a child when his parent is sitting right there. Thou shall reinforce with thy child that the rules of the meeting place are to be obeyed.

If you have other children with you, they need to behave also. Nothing is more disruptive than children running through a meeting and can be dangerous if a little one wanders onto a ball field.

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7. Thou shall set a good example for all scouts during functions and activities.Thou shall be a good sport about participating in the fun and games and keeping annoying chit-chat to a minimum during meetings, ceremonies and awards. Grown-up chit-chat during quiet events is even more disruptive than unruly children. It certainly sets a bad example and tells the children that their event isn't important to you.

8. Thou shall honor thy scout leaders with TLC.A smile and a kind word of gratitude will make up for a lot of noise and rowdiness. Any volunteer who works with children expects a certain amount of craziness, and that's OK, but it can be tiring. Sometimes simply knowing they're appreciated makes all the difference.

9. Thou shall notify thy leaders in advance when thy scout has to miss a meeting.Sickness, vacation, and many other things come up. Please be courteous to your scout’s leaders and let them know in advance of any absence.

10. Above all, thou shall remember that the leader's job is one you didn't want.Do whatever you can to make that job easier.

RECEIPT OF CUB SCOUT PACK 384 PARENT HANDBOOK

The Cub Scout Pack 384 Parent Handbook is available online at https://pack384.trooptrack.com . Please download it, read it, and discuss it with your scout. Then sign this document and return it to the den leader or Cubmaster.

I, the undersigned, hereby certify that I have received the Cub Scout Pack 384 Parent Handbook and do, by virtue of my signature, agree to abide by it for the duration that we are members of Cub Scout Pack 384.

__________________________________________________________________________________ Scout Name (please print)

__________________________________________________________________________________ Parent/Guardian Name (please print)

__________________________________________________________________________________ Parent/Guardian Signature Date