Parent Resources
Parents! Whether you are a new parent, one thinking of joining Scouts, or a seasoned Scouting family veteran, we’ve gathered the resources you need in one location for you. Scouting is truly a family experience at all levels. We want to give you the tools to help your Scout’s Pack/Troop/Crew/Post succeed!
For those interested in the program for the first time, please visit our JOIN SCOUTING page to get started.
New Families
How to Join
Visit our JOIN SCOUTING page to learn more about how to find a program that meets the age and outcomes you desire.
After you determine which program meets your needs, you can find a list of units (Pack/Troop/Crew/Post) by going to BeAScout.org. You can search for your desired program, by selecting the program type and entering your zip code. We recommend reaching out to the unit (click the REQUEST MORE INFORMATION button) and visiting a meeting or two.
For more information about the registration fees, please check out the National Membership & Council Fees page.
Iott Scout Shop
Stop by the Iott Scout Shop for all of your uniform needs, handbooks, and more.
Uniform Checklist
Do you know what your Scout needs in terms of uniform? Here is a handy checklist that includes all the pieces and parts for all levels. Talk to your Pack/Troop/Ship/Crew/Post about unit specific items, but this should get you started.
Upcoming Activities
Check out the Erie Shores Council calendar for upcoming activities including summer camp, training opportunities, district activities, etc.
Parent Resources
Cub Scouts vs Scouts BSA
Ever wondered how they differ? This is an older blog post, but a great comparison between the two programs. Helps set expectations for youth, leaders, and parents.
Health Forms
Everyone, both youth and adult, who attends or participates in camp must have the REQUIRED BSA
Annual Health and Medical Form. Parts A and B, are REQUIRED. Copies of the form may be obtained by visiting the Iott Scout Shop or online here. Forms can be submitted before camp in person at the Iott Scout Shop or by uploading to a secured Dropbox folder by clicking here.
How to Speak “Scouter”
Here is a glossary of terms and events to help you out! (Full Dictionary of Scouting Terms).
Parents’ Guides
Every parent should be familiar with the Parents' Guides to Protecting Your Children From Child Abuse.
Volunteering
Interested in volunteering? Erie Shores Council is always looking for volunteers to serve on a committee at the district or council level. Please click the following link to complete a volunteer interest form.
Youth Protection Training (YPT)
All registered leaders in the BSA are required to take Youth Protection Training (YPT). Any parent that will be in direct contact with Scouts other than their own are strongly encouraged to take this valuable training. Please click on the following link to be directed to National's site about Youth Protection Training.
Awards and Advancements
While most often your unit leader will work with the Scouts on awards and advancements, there are some Scouts that choose to work on items on his/her own.
Merit Badges
Yes, there are over 135 merit badges that Scouts BSA and Venturers can earn. Help your Scout find the latest requirements by purchasing the merit badge pamphlet at the Iott Scout Shop.
Religious Awards
At all levels of Scouting there are optional religious awards that can be earned by Scouts and Scouters (that is the term given to Adults that are registered leaders in the BSA). Most often they are completed individually or in a group in conjunction with a Scout’s religious institution.