Lions, a new Boy Scouts of America pilot program for kindergarten boys, was implemented in our Council in 2016.
Why go younger? Research shows that a child’s development accelerates at age 4 and 5 — about the time these youngsters begin their formal education in kindergarten. That’s also the time when families start looking for after-school activities for their children. While 5-year-olds could join a soccer team or karate studio, they couldn’t yet join Scouting.
That’s about to change in pilot councils across the country. Parents will welcome a program that introduces Scouting concepts and values to 5-year-olds in a fun, age-appropriate way.
The kindergarten-age boys themselves will enjoy exploring the world around them with friends. Lions promises to expand imaginations, spark creativity and amplify fun.
Lions will be piloted in select councils across the country. Los Padres Council has been a pilot site for this program since its inception. For a list of participating units in the South Coast, contact District Executive Jim Pyler at the Scout Office (967-0105).
This is just the beginning of an exciting program sure to grow Scouting. I’ll share more details as I get them.