Gifted Issues Discussion homepage Forums Parenting and Advocacy Cub scout placement question

Yeah, I'm not sure what to do about it. My feeling is that he didn't fit in socially before the skip, either, so as long as he is happy at school, not breaking any rules, I don't really care what he does at recess.

Thanks, mon, for some very comforting advice

Especially this:


I just thought I should frame it!

Well, ideally. But I think we all know that in reality, a negative attitude from an adult--mere "facilitator" or no--can really hurt a kid. Especially socially. All it takes is one well-placed "if you're so smart..." comments or a subtle treatment like a social leper and a kid is ostracized by the other kids.

I don't think that potential is reason to keep the kid out of Scouts, but I do understand the concern Cathy is expressing.

I'm not disagreeing with your fundamental advice, MON. But I do think a bad attitude from the adult in charge of the group about a GT child can ruin a potentially good thing.

Good point.

I confess I'm mostly thinking of that rotten math teacher DS had in that homeschool class--an adult who also took the role of facilitator, BTW--who ignored my son completely even though I was RIGHT THERE. It can happen even with parental presence, and when it does, it's ugly, painful and maddening!

I don't mean to be negative. My son's Scout leader is really good! He enjoys Scouting a lot! And he's gotten to do some really cool things with his den.

But since there's some history with the particular leader in question for Cathy's DS, I don't think it's an idle concern. You know?

Okay, I'm done pounding on the deceased equines for today...

My problem is finding a balance between being aware of potential problems like this and being hypersensitive.

Yes, I hear you! I think you're striking the right balance now, FWIW. (not much...) Be aware, be vigilent, but don't assume problems until they show themselves IRL.

Chiming in late- I put my son with his agemates, as he is not a big kid and not particularly athletic, though he enjoys sports. It worked out well for the most part, with many of the kids in his den also playing on the same sports teams. The kids who stick with scouting tend to be high achievers/bright/gifted or else they have parents who are very involved and supportive.

My son is a first year boy scout now, and he is getting lots of positive feedback from the leaders, both the kids (it's a boy run troop) and the adults. I think itis a great program, though of course YMMV based upon the leaders and boys in each pack or troop.

Well, we signed up. DS is very enthusiastic and has already memorized the Cub Scout promise, Law of the Pack, Cub Scout motto, sign, salute and handshake. He loves his uniform

Our first den meeting went well. The activity was to write two sentences about why friends are important. DS was the only one who could spell independently and write fluently. I could tell the other moms noticed but no one said anything. I feel a little edgy waiting to find out what their reaction to him will be.

Well, it sounds like a good start, at least.

Did the other kids seem to notice, or just the parents?

I don't think so. They were busy with the activity and weren't paying attention to what anyone else was doing. Afterward, they all decorated Halloween cookies together.