IMHO...
I was in scouting, would not recommend it.
Too much like indoctrination.
A few good leaders, some really bad.
Nothing that can’t be taught in homes, families and groups of families, ergo, I’d recommend homeschooling and no organized groups with uniforms.
Little league and Scouting for me were quite a ridiculous waste of time.
They were certainly fun and I had some experiences, and I learned because I intentionally learned in every situation I found myself in, but the time would have been FAR better spent working more seriously and in better directions.
Much better to have outdoor activities that are not so formalized. When the uniforms go on and the trophies and badges come out, the idiot parents come out of the woodwork.
As a former Scout in Michigan and assistant Scout leader in Texas, I have to disagree 100%.
The program / discipline is a major benefit. Many young boys don't have fathers at home. Most boys live in a metro area and would never be exposed to Scouting activities.
There are foundational rules with instruction, supervision, accountability, and the liberty to exercise the skills. For instance, 9 year old boys are taught the proper use of pocket knives, tested, then given a certification to allow the boys to bring a knife to any meeting or function and use it appropriately at their discretion. Name one other group function that instills this kind of discipline and responsibility at such a young age! Home schooling doesn't afford this kind of teaching and testing.