Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills Spring 2026

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INTRODUCTION Welcome to Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills training. The Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS) course builds and expands on the concepts and themes introduced in Scoutmaster Position-Specific Training and provides Scouters with the confidence to take youth into the outdoors. Specifically, this hands-on program gives adult leaders a practical introduction to the patrol method of a Scout-led troop by teaching many of the practical outdoor skills they need to lead Scouts in the outof-doors. In addition, the teaching methods, activities, and games model the variety of teaching used in effective and engaging Scouting programs. The skills sessions presented in Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills closely follow the Scouts BSA Handbook for Boys and Scouts BSA Handbook for Girls and are meant to serve as an adult training outline. By using these skills sessions in conjunction with the Scouts BSA handbooks, trainers can be sure new leaders are proficient in many of the basic outdoor skills through First Class rank, and gain exposure to the patrol method and numerous teaching methods and learning games. Each skills session references specific chapters in the handbooks and highlights the 2018 advancement requirements. Hands-on participation is the best learning tool, and this course models the techniques used by effective Scoutmasters, advisors, and other leaders in the Scouting program. Attendees will see and experience different aspects of how Scouting works while playing the role of Scouts in a troop. Participants should leave the training experience with a full understanding of how the patrol method  operates, a feeling of comfort in working with and instructing their Scouts, and an increased level of  confidence taking Scouts outdoors safely. With that comes great satisfaction.

What to Bring REFERENCE: Scouts BSA Handbook for Boys and Scouts BSA Handbook for Girls—Chapter 9, Camping Overnight gear, the Scout Basic Essentials, and appropriate clothing are the heart of camping equipment. Carry a light load of only what you need to keep yourself safe and make a good camp; leave all unnecessary items at home.

PERSONAL OVERNIGHT CAMPING GEAR ¦  Scouts BSA Handbook for Boys or Scouts BSA Handbook for Girls ¦ SCOUT BASIC ESSENTIALS ¦ Pocketknife ¦ First-aid kit ¦ Extra clothing ¦ Rain gear ¦ Water bottle filled  with potable water ¦ Flashlight ¦ Trail food ¦ Matches and fire starters ¦ Sun protection ¦ Map and compass ¦ Clothing for the season  (warm-weather or cold-weather) ¦ Backpack ¦ Rain cover for backpack ¦ Sleeping bag, or two or  three blankets ¦ Sleeping pad ¦ Ground cloth ¦ EATING KIT ¦ Spoon ¦ Plate ¦ Bowl ¦ Cup ¦ CLEANUP KIT ¦ Soap ¦ Toothbrush ¦ Toothpaste ¦ Dental floss ¦ Comb ¦ Washcloth ¦ Towel ¦ PERSONAL EXTRAS (OPTIONAL) ¦ Watch ¦ Camera and film ¦ Notebook or paper ¦ Pencil or pen ¦ Sunglasses ¦ Small musical instrument  ¦ Gloves