It’s back to school once more, but this shouldn’t mean all study and no play for children! Luckily there’s no shortage of seasonal or afterschool activities for kids of all ages in Beijing, and perhaps one of the most valuable activities is scouting… even (or especially) for the smartphone generation.
We’ve caught up before with leaders of these organizations, and they explained how scouting develops leadership and empowers young people through opportunities which teach them responsibility and outdoor survival skills — things children cannot learn effectively even if they’re using the most sophisticated smartphone available.
Here are some details about the scouting registration events happening later this month.
Beijing Cub Scouts Pack 3944 Registration, Aug 18
Boys and girls aged 5 to 11 who are looking for excitement, fun, and to make new friends are invited to sign up for Cub Scouts at International School of Beijing (ISB). Cub Scouts work through a series of “adventures,” earning awards until they’ve succeeded in graduating their year group. Membership is open to all boys and girls, regardless of nationality or school attended, with one important proviso: under Chinese law, the child must hold a foreign (non-Chinese) passport with a valid visa in order to join. This rule is strictly enforced and there are no exceptions. You’ll also need evidence of your health insurance, and annual fees of RMB 1,200.
Kids 5+. 10am. ISB. (www.beijingcubscouts.com)
Girl Scout Registration, Aug 25
This year’s Girl Scout registration event takes place at Western Academy of Beijing (WAB). on August 25. Troops meet downtown and in Shunyi at various locations. The Girl Scouts team will also be recruiting leaders for newly forming troops. Girl Scouts is open to foreign passport holders only.
All ages. RMB 2,000 (new members), RMB 1,700 (girls who don’t need a uniform). 11am-1pm. WAB. (Amy Kennedy: 185 1505 3922, beijinggirlscouts@usagso.org)
Photos: Girl Scouts of the USA; courtesy of Beijing Cub Scouts Pack 3944
