My Experience With Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation

As a new Boy Scouts of America leader, I was required to complete Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) training before taking my troop on any overnight camping trips. I was nervous at first, but the experience was incredibly valuable and helped me become a better leader.

What is Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation?

BALOO is a one-day training course for Cub Scout leaders who plan and carry out outdoor activities. The course covers basic outdoor skills, such as camping, cooking, and first aid, as well as important safety guidelines and recommendations for planning successful outings.

Why is BALOO important?

As a leader, it is essential to ensure that all activities are safe, fun, and appropriate for the scouts in your troop. BALOO provides the necessary knowledge and skills to plan and execute an outdoor trip that meets those standards.

Step-by-Step Guide for BALOO

1. Sign up for a BALOO course through your local council.
2. Attend the one-day training session.
3. Learn about outdoor skills, safety guidelines, and planning successful outings.
4. Pass the BALOO quiz.
5. Apply your knowledge to plan and lead a successful outdoor trip with your troop.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for BALOO

1. Start planning early to ensure a successful trip.
2. Include all necessary equipment and supplies in your packing list.
3. Consider the abilities and needs of all scouts in your troop.
4. Follow all safety guidelines and recommendations.
5. Encourage scouts to learn and practice outdoor skills.
6. Make sure everyone has fun!
7. Choose a campsite that meets your troop’s needs.
8. Be prepared for unexpected challenges or emergencies.
9. Communicate effectively with your troop and other leaders.
10. Reflect on what worked well and what could be improved for future trips.

Pros and Cons of BALOO

Pros:

• Provides essential knowledge and skills for planning and carrying out successful outdoor trips
• Ensures that all activities are safe and appropriate for scouts
• Encourages leaders to teach and model outdoor skills to scouts

Cons:

• Requires a full day of training
• May be challenging for leaders who are new to the outdoors
• Requires ongoing planning and preparation for successful trips

My Personal Review and Suggestion for BALOO

BALOO was an incredibly valuable experience for me as a new leader. It provided me with the necessary knowledge and skills to plan and lead successful outdoor trips with my troop. I highly recommend this training to all Cub Scout leaders who plan to take their troop on overnight camping trips. My suggestion for improvement would be to offer more hands-on training and practice opportunities during the course.

Question & Answer and FAQs

Q: Who is required to take BALOO?

A: All Cub Scout leaders who plan and lead overnight camping trips are required to take BALOO.

Q: How often should leaders take BALOO?

A: BALOO training is valid for two years. Leaders should retake the training every two years to stay up-to-date on outdoor skills and safety guidelines.

Q: Is BALOO required for day trips?

A: No, BALOO is only required for overnight camping trips.