About SpiralScouts International
SpiralScouts International, a program for girls and boys of minority faiths working, growing, and learning together, debuted in February of 2001. SpiralScouts began as an organized childrens program at the Aquarian Tabernacle Church (ATC) in Index, Washington in 1999. Word of the program quickly spread, and the ATC formalized and expanded the program to become the worldwide program it is today.
As of June, 2003, there are over 50 active Circles and Hearths in the US and Canada, with discussions on forming charters in Australia, New Zealand, and Europe.
The SpiralScouts Basic Program
SpiralScouts takes a unique approach to scouting. Among its basic tenants are:
Inclusivity - the understanding and acceptance of others' beliefs.
Cultural Studies - exploring various world views and values from across the globe.
Interpersonal Relations - strengthening the bonds between the youth and their peers, as well as between the youth and their parents & other adults.
Ecological Living - respect for our Earth and an understanding of its natural resources.
In these times, finding ways to peacefully co-exist with others on this planet as well as the Earth itself are more important than ever. In SpiralScouts, our goal is to do just that.
Learn more about the program, as well as an in-depth view of its founding philosophies and goals, on our official website, SpiralScouts.Org.
The Structure of SpiralScouts
An independent Hearth is the smallest unit, led by one or two parents known as Hearth Keepers. This is a solitary or isolated small group consisting of only one or two households. When a Hearth becomes bigger than this, it must become a Circle, with at least two leaders.
A Circle is the basic unit which is led by two or more Circle Leaders, with at least one male and one female leader. This is an open group charter to which many children of many ages and families may belong and in which all family members are actively encouraged to participate.
A Clan is a larger group within a regional geographic area such as a metropolitan area, or region, and is made up of two or more Circles and/or Hearths. A council, made up of representatives from the various Circles, Hearths, and sponsors, guides the clan.
A Tribe is a larger governing organization, made up of Clans, Circles, and Hearths. It is a local office of SpiralScouts International, responsible for the administration of SpiralScouts programs within its area of authority. Tribal Councils are usually responsible for a state, province, or country.
SpiralScouts International headquarters and its executive committee are the single governing council that oversees and coordinates the entire program.
SpiralScouts Program Levels
Within the program, there are three levels of child participation, each of which may be divided into additional Hearths by a local Circle depending on membership numbers and other local factors.
FireFlies, who range in age from 3 through 8 - this is the time for stories and dancing, of learning the core meanings behind basic symbols and of learning how to get along with others in a friendly and spiritual manner which appeals to both the children and our traditions. FireFlies also explore beginning woodland lore, make crafts, and participate in service projects.
SpiralScouts, who range in age from 9 through 13 - besides being the overall name for the program, the SpiralScouts level is specifically designed for older children, getting them involved in hiking, camping, woodland lore, personal challenges, arts and crafts, plays and productions, badge work, and community service.
PathFinders, who range in age from 14 through 18 - a program for teens, including independent study, where teens begin to apply their knowledge and skills in practical life applications. Leadership, interpersonal and relationship skills and communications skills are a primary focus.
What Do SpiralScouts Circles Do?
That depends a lot on the Circle or Hearth, and what the children are interested in. But like many youth programs, SpiralScouts exposes children to projects in different areas of knowledge, field trips, games, songs, arts & crafts, camping and other outdoor activities.
Uniforms
Children are encouraged to wear uniforms to foster a sense of belonging, but the inability to acquire a uniform will not prevent the child from participating.
Uniforms are composed of the following items, which are typically widely available:
- Tan chino twill pants, shorts or skirt
- Forest green polo shirt (activity uniform)
- Forest green oxford shirt (dress uniform)
- Dress uniforms include brown shoes, belt, and a capuche (hooded bib)
- Activity uniforms should include appropriate shoes for the activity
Many local Circles and Clans offer uniform exchanges where families can trade uniforms their children have outgrown for new uniforms. Additionally, many regions will have identified reliable sources for uniform items.
