One thing I absolutely love about Cub Scouts is that it actually gives my boys life skills. Things they will need know how to do like making a fire escape plan, fixing a drawer, unclogging a drain, and cooking. They learn so many different things. Right now Finn is working on getting his Whittling Chip. I love that he’s super excited but also very serious about it, as he should be. He keeps reviewing the rules and even reminding me about the rules. He’s been completely engrossed in “survival skills” lately. He told me that some day he wants to be on Naked and Afraid. Getting this whittling chip is his first step he tells me.

He always remembers to look around and see if anyone is in his “Blood Circle.” I really just think he likes saying “blood circle” because it’s just super cool. They started with knife safety and learning about different types of pocket knives. Then they worked on sharpening their own pencils, getting a feeling for their pocket knife.

Then they moved onto soap carving. He’s started on making a raptor head for his first project. Now mind you, being in a room with seven 8 year olds holding knives was a little frightening, but it ended up being a blood-free evening. I can’t wait to see how his soap project comes out.

Another thing about Finn is that he has his heart set on becoming a chef so knife skills are super important. My husband cringes in the kitchen when I let him use the “real” knives while we cook, but there is only one way to learn and that is practicing. Will he cut himself one day, most definitely. Haven’t we all? Learning about knife safety and getting comfortable with blade is so important and it will benefit him as a young man.

To find a Cub Scout program in your area, check the Boy Scouts of America website.