(BSA #33059 © 1975 1995 printing) 

"Many boys with mental retardation frequently surprise their parents, teachers and friends with their accomplishments when they are provided with opportunities to learn and succeed. This is particularly so when they can participate in Scouting and other leisure activities alongside their nondisabled peers." - Dr. Alan Abeson

Scouting is for all youth, just some learn differently. The developmentally disabled may, simply, process information slower (like a PC with a lower clock speed) but they can learn, retain that knowledge, and enjoy like anyone else. Scouting helps because it fosters faith, hope, understanding and desire. Scouting helps because it develops adaptive skills. Rewards and recognition develop confidence.

The chapter on why Scouting helps addresses the Scouting Spirit; frequent recognition; leaders learning as they teach; selecting the unit; and the right leader.

Important questions are answered about mental retardation: What is it? What are adaptive skills? How many people are affected? How does it affect the individual? How is it diagnosed? What is Mental Age? and, What are the causes?

Youth with mental retardation can be registered before completing the requirements for the Scout badge. Memorization need not be required to learn the Oath, Law, Slogan or Motto, an understanding of the content is the goal. Advancement requirements can be both modified and tailored to the individual need. Guidance on membership, advancement, and alternative merit badges is provided.

Group activities, games, ceremonies, and uniforming provide structure and enhance learning. The same texts Scouters use with regularity: Woods Wisdom; songbooks; Boys Life provide the activities for learning by doing.

Article XI, Section 3, Clause 19 of the BSA Rules and regulations reads, in part: ...under such rules and regulations as may be prescribed upon consultation with appropriate medical authorities, registration of boys who are either mentally retarded or severely physically handicapped...as Cub Scouts...over age 18 as Boy Scouts, or Varsity Scouts, and registration of young adults...over age 21 as Explorers, and the participation of each in the respective advancement programs while registered, is authorized.