Personal Safety doesn’t stop with Cub Scout meetings! Here are some fun and engaging ways your family can build on the lessons learned during these adventures and continue fostering a sense of civic pride and responsibility at home:
1. Watch the “Protect Yourself Rules” Videos
The Boy Scouts of America, in collaboration with the Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center Foundation, has developed the “Protect Yourself Rules” videos tailored for each Cub Scout rank. These videos teach essential personal safety skills.
- Lion (Kindergarten): Protect Yourself Rules Video for Lion
- Tiger (1st Grade): Protect Yourself Rules Video for Tiger
- Wolf (2nd Grade): Protect Yourself Rules Video for Wolf
- Bear (3rd Grade): Protect Yourself Rules Video for Bear
- Webelos (4th Grade): Protect Yourself Rules Video for Webelos
- Arrow of Light (5th Grade): Protect Yourself Rules Video for Arrow of Light
Watching the appropriate video with your Scout reinforces the personal safety lessons they’ve learned and opens up opportunities for meaningful discussions.
2. Create Safety Plans Together
Developing a family emergency plan ensures everyone knows how to respond during various situations like fires, severe weather, or other emergencies. Ready.gov provides comprehensive guides to assist families in creating these plans.
- Family Emergency Planning: Ready.gov – Family Emergency Planning
- Make a Plan: Ready.gov – Make a Plan
Utilize these resources to establish and practice your family’s emergency procedures, enhancing preparedness and confidence in handling unexpected events.
3. Discuss Online Safety
In today’s digital age, understanding online safety is crucial for both children and adults. Engaging in conversations about responsible internet use helps protect personal information and fosters a safe online environment.
- Parent Guides from ConnectSafely: ConnectSafely – Parent Guides
- Online Safety Basics: Stay Safe Online – Online Safety Basics
These resources offer valuable information and tips to guide your discussions on internet safety, ensuring your Scout navigates the online world securely.
Participate in a Family Service Project
Organize or join a local community clean-up, volunteer at a food bank, or assist a neighbor in need. These activities help your child see the impact of giving back and being an active part of their community. Need ideas? Check out www.volunteermatch.org for inspiration.
Explore Local Government
Take your family to a city council meeting or visit your town hall to learn how local government works and how decisions are made. Help your child understand the importance of being informed and involved. For more activities, visit Ben’s Guide to the U.S. Government.
Create a “Good Citizen” Chart
Work together to list simple, daily acts of good citizenship, such as recycling, helping others, and showing kindness. Track your family’s progress and celebrate your achievements. Get tips on creating positive habits at Education.com.
By incorporating these activities into your family’s routine, you can reinforce the values of citizenship and help your child continue growing as a responsible and engaged member of the community. Visit www.scouting.org for more resources and ideas!
