Retention Tip #4 - Stay in Touch.
Communication with your Pack families is very important.
For example, I think it’s a good idea whenever a boy is absent for your Cub meetings/activities, to give his parents a call. Most parents are very appreciative that someone noticed their son wasn’t there and is checking to see how he is doing. Of course, you shouldn’t say “Why wasn’t Tommy here tonight?” You can say “We just wanted to let you know that we missed Tommy at our last activity. Is he doing okay?” In my experience, parents are usually glad that someone has called. Staying in touch like this is often enough to keep someone who misses a couple of meetings from dropping out altogether.
Of course, sometimes boys have to miss for an extended period of time due to sports activities. When that happens, I always tell them that’s fine. We just ask that they stay in touch with us and with what we are doing, and we’ll welcome them back when their season is over.
For scouts who have just joined your Pack, the first few weeks of Cub activities are very important. Even though they are officially members of your Pack, most parents during the first few weeks are still making up their minds on whether this scouting stuff is worth their time and effort. They are still in an assessment stage. Help them make the choice to stay with your Pack. Be sure your Pack is welcoming to them and that they are introduced to the Pack and Den leadership. They may have lots of questions. You should answer their questions, but don’t overwhelm them with information. It is important to stay in contact with parents during the first few weeks so they will decide that this is something they want to continue to be a part of.
Email is very helpful with Pack communication. Sending out regular email reminders about upcoming events and activities can help ensure good attendance.
I also recommend making and distributing periodic newsletters with information about upcoming events, contacts, and frequently asked questions (FAQ’s) as well as announcements of rank badges that have been earned.
Speaking of advancements, be sure your scouts are progressing as they should on their rank badges. If you see that someone is not coming along on their badge, touch base and see if there are any problems that can be addressed. Getting the rank badges earned and awarded is not only important for the boy’s sake, it also helps keep the boys and their parents wanting to come back.
Good communication can have a big impact on Cub Scout retention and keeping your Pack running well.
