Scouting around the world has developed many different traditions and nuances that other Scouting members may recognize. Some are also group / section specific. But no matter their reach, they are still apart of Scouting in one form or another. 

This page is a collection of "Traditions" and Scouting nuances that 3rd Kanata members may experience. If you believe any are missing from this list, please let us know. 

A Brief History of Scouting

Scouting, also known as the Scout Movement, began in 1907 when Robert Baden-Powell, a British Army lieutenant-general, organized the first experimental camp on Brownsea Island in the UK with 20 boys12. This camp was a success and led to the publication of “Scouting for Boys” in 1908, which became immensely popular12.

Scouting in Canada began in early 1908, shortly after Robert Baden-Powell’s book “Scouting for Boys” was published. The first Scout groups were established almost simultaneously in Merrickville and St. Catharines, Ontario, and Port Morien, Nova Scotia. Scouting’s principles of outdoor activities, community service, and personal development have inspired millions of young people worldwide. Today, Scouting is a global movement with over 57 million members in more than 200 countries1.

Scouting is rich with traditions that foster a sense of community and shared values. Here are a few notable ones:

1. Scout Promise and Law: Every Scout makes a promise to uphold the Scout Law, which includes principles like trustworthiness, loyalty, and helpfulness.
   
   

2. Scout Uniform: The uniform, originally designed by Baden-Powell, symbolizes equality and unity among Scouts.
   
   

3. Scout Sign and Salute: The three-finger salute represents the three parts of the Scout Promise. The Scout sign is made with the right hand, with the thumb holding down the little finger.
   
   

4. Campfires and Songs: Campfires are a central part of Scouting, where Scouts gather to sing songs, tell stories, and bond.
   
   

5. Patrol System: Scouts are organized into small groups called patrols, each led by a Patrol Leader. This system encourages leadership and teamwork.
   
   

6. Badges and Awards: Scouts earn badges for various skills and achievements, which they proudly display on their uniforms.
   
   

7. Jamborees: These are large gatherings of Scouts from different regions or countries, promoting international friendship and cultural exchange.
   
   

These traditions help create a unique and enriching experience for Scouts around the world. Have you experienced any of these traditions firsthand?

Learn more: 1  scout.org , 2  scoutsmarts.com

Terminology

There are lots of different terms used in Scouting both in Canada and world-wide. Here are some we wanted to share, in alphabetical order.

Beaveree, Cuboree, Camporee, Jamboree – A large gathering of members within the same Section from multiple groups.  These are skill-building camps that provide opportunities to network outside of one’s own Group/Section.

Group Commissioner (GC) – is a volunteer and recognized as the principle point of contact for the group and assumes the leadership of the Group Committee who looks after a Scout Group (example "3rd Kanata Scouts Group").

Group Committee Member – A volunteer who holds a role with the Committee that assists the Sections within their group. (i.e.  Contact Section Scouter, Group Treasurer, Group Commissioner, Group Fundraiser, Group Administrator, Sponsor Liaison, Group Quartermaster, etc.).

Leader – The title we use for Youth members who are in a leadership role such as, Patrol Leader, Youth Commissioner, Peer Mentors, etc. 

Neckerchief “Necker” – The term we use for the “Scarves” that our members wear. The unique design traits help to identify each individual group. 

Rainbow, Tic Tac, Akela, Bagheera – Historically our Beaver and Cub Scouters had “nick names” that were based on the folklore characters of those programs. Beavers is based on the book “Friends of the Forest” and Cubs is based on “the Jungle Book”.  

Scouter – A volunteer in the organization who has completed all screening and training requirements towards filling a Section or Committee role. 

Scouts' Own - Scouts’ Own is an inspirational, informal ceremony of reflection. A Scouts’ Own service is usually short (typically 10-15 minutes), and can include of a mixture of thoughts of appreciation, words of thanks, moments of silence and music. 

Section – There is a Section for each level of Youth program (Beaver Scouts, Cub Scouts, Scouts, Venturer Scouts and Rover Scouts). There are Contact Scouters and Section Scouters at each level. Sections fall under a group. (example, "3rd Kanata Scouts - B Colony" is a Beaver section in the 3rd Kanata Scouts Group).

Woggle – A device to fasten the Necker. Each type of woggle signifies the level of the membership. (ie. Beaver Scout, Patrol Leader, Scouter)