Resources for Units from the Special Needs and Disabilities Committee

Every Scout deserves an opportunity to participate, be respected, and treated as the rest of their friends in the unit. While special needs units do exist, youth are best served in their local unit alongside their friends. Some Scouts may require extra time and attention to achieve skills, and greater patience may be necessary to guide these Scouts, but the reward of success can make it all worthwhile! Clear communication with parents, an understanding of the special needs, and additional training opportunities can all be helpful to unit leadership.

The Special Needs and Disabilities Committee (SNDC) has amassed a wealth of resources that are available to all. The Committee meets the first Wednesday of the month via Zoom and has representatives from all reaches of the Northern Star Scouting. The SNDC has volunteers that are available to provide personal support, talk through complex situations, and generally offer assistance for any parents and/or unit leaders. Commissioners are available to present at district roundtables, provide information when working on the disabilities awareness merit badge, and assist with units with specific issues.

Of particular interest to families and units is the Inclusion Toolbox, which breaks down Scouting with special needs and disabilities by topic, starting with the responsibilities of the unit and parents so that all parties involved are better equipped to fully include all youth in the Scouting program. The Inclusion Toolbox is a great resource presented by Able Scouts, who also offer the Abilities Digest, a quarterly publication that highlights programs, stories, and trainings from all over the United States. Other online resources include Scouting with Disabilities, Abilities Digest on Facebook, and No Scout Left Behind.

In addition to online resources, the SNDC offers courses through the University of Scouting, with extension courses offered throughout the year. Some of the classes offered this Fall include: Working and Camping with Cub Scouts with Special Needs or Disabilities, Special Needs and Disabilities - Tools For Success, Advancement for Scouts with Special Needs, and Including Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Youth in Scouting. Courses are offered throughout the year on special topics such as Individualized Scouting Plans, ADHD, Food Allergies and Restricted Diets, Autism, and so much more. The SNDC also offers resources at some Council events, such as Quiet Cabins at the Klondike Derby, a safe place for Scouts who need a respite so they can reset and rejoin their units in the fun!