So far he is a “scout”...he is a few steps away from his first review...but he lets his fear get in the way. I have one of the counselors working with him to help him get more comfortable with the process. I think if he manages to rank up to Tenderfoot, it will give him the courage to do the other ranks.
Based on your screen name I would guess you are a Scout Master and I would like to ask if you have any tips to help me, help him?
Congrats to your son on his achievement...Eagle Scout dad and Scoutmaster here...
Does your son know those who are on the Troop Committee? Have you introduced them to him? Has the Scoutmaster conducted any type of SM conference with him to explain the Board of Review? Has the Sr. Patrol Leader?
These are just a few of the ways to help, however, the key here is that it is an interview, not a test.
If done properly, it’s actually more of a conversation that is started by asking the Scout questions about his activities, what he does and doesn’t like, etc.
Hope this helps...
One of the key things is not to pressure your son; Scouts move at different paces.
If you're friends with one of the Assistant Scoutmasters, or the Scoutmaster, then you may ask them if they're willing to approach him and congratulate him for his achievements, and to offer encouragement. This would be similar to what you've try to do with the counselor. The Scout Leaders could mention he's close to his first board of review and they don't want him to be nervous.
If it's true in your Troop, they can let him know that he's really done all of the work for passing and that the Board of Review is just a formality. Perhaps a couple of leaders would be willing to offer a mock Board of Review so he knows what to expect.
I take it from your prayer threads that you may not be able to help him a lot right now . . . but if you help out with Troop Meetings and a few campouts, he's more likely to advance.
Most of all, don't push him. I've seen a Scout hit Life Scout after two years, then wait until just before his 18th birthday to commit to the requirements for Eagle Scout.
Does he have a friend in BSA about his age who would be willing to work with him to go through advancement at the same time?