At Scouting Colorado, we encourage everyone to foster understanding of special needs. While the online role-specific training for adult leaders covers disability awareness basics, it does not provide opportunities for discussion or deeper learning. Effective support for Scouts with special needs requires understanding each individual’s unique circumstances, as well as thoughtful decisions about when to encourage independence and when to offer accommodations.
You may need further guidance to explore topics such as:
- Specific disabilities like autism, allergies, or Down syndrome
- Options and accommodations for advancement
- Camp planning for Scouts with special needs
- Best practices for working with neurodiverse youth
This page provides training and resources to help you find answers to these and other questions.
Live Training Opportunities
We recommend attending live training sessions whenever possible to engage in discussions and ask questions. Scouting Colorado offers special needs training twice annually at:
- University of Scouting (Fall)—open to all adult leaders
- Commissioners College (Winter)—primarily for commissioners, but adult leaders may also enroll
Check the council calendar for details.
Our team of volunteers offers free special needs training on request. We can address a variety of topics and tailor presentations to events such as Roundtables, unit meetings, and staff training for camps, NYLT, Wood Badge, and more. Contact us for further details about special training or if you need consultation.
Self Instruction
For the self-guided learning alternative, we recommend starting with The Inclusion Toolkit, a comprehensive guide to special needs Scouting. This resource is designed for both full reading and quick reference. Additionally, Scouting America’s Serving Scouts With Disabilities page offers valuable information, including training bundles, which are presentations packaged with supporting documents.
Promoting Special Needs Awareness in Your Unit
We encourage units to integrate special needs awareness into their planning and activities, particularly when welcoming new Scouts who may require accommodations. Even small efforts can make a significant impact, such as a well-planned Scoutmaster’s minute.
Advancement opportunities also provide ways to highlight special needs awareness, including:
- Cub Scouts Disabilities Awareness Academics Belt Loop and Pin
- Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge for Scouts BSA
Finally, hands-on activities that simulate disabilities can be both educational and engaging, helping Scouts develop empathy and understanding.
