Something Roaring in the Jungle

There is an exciting new Scouting program called “Lion” for Kindergarten-aged boys that will be available as a national pilot for select councils this fall. But it’s not a program that changes any of the current ranks and organization of other Scouting programs. It’s unique as it reaches out to a slightly younger group of boys.

Research shows that childhood development accelerates around ages 4 and 5, about the time youth begin formal education. That’s where Scouting comes in. Like many of the BSA’s programs which supplement the learning and growth boys experience at home and in an educational environment at that age, the Boy Scouts of America has developed this pilot program for 5-year-old Kindergarten boys.

The Lion program weaves traditional Scouting concepts of character development, leadership skills, personal fitness and citizenship into activities that are age-appropriate and fun for the boys and their parents. The activities introduce the family to Scouting activities and principles, and provide an exciting way for the little guys to explore the world around them. The program will fuel their imagination, creativity and fun as they experience the growth Scouting can provide. At the end of the Lion year, they “graduate” to Tiger, and advance through Cub Scouting.