We are getting ready to do the Cub Scout Bear 'Jot It Down' requirements. Requirement #18c asks the boys to keep a daily record of their activities for two weeks. I have made small journals for the boys to use two weeks, asking them to mark off if they pray, read scriptures, and obey their parents. In addition they can write about what they have done to help someone else, what they have done that is hard, what made them happy, and what someone has done for them. I like this idea better than writing down what time they got up, ate, etc. I am hoping that as they take time to write these things down, they will notice more what others do for them (gratitude), their accomplishments (do hard things), and what they can do to help other people (do a good turn daily), Download the
journal pdf. (Print two sided, cut in half, and assemble so the days are in order.)
I am thinking of doing a short game where each boy will tell something he is thankful for or why his parents are great (all boys will share the same thing, I just haven't decide which one I will have them do). The first boy will share his item. The second will share the first boy's item, then his. The third boy will share the first boy's item, then the second boy's item, and then his. We will continue adding on until all the boys have had a chance to try to remember. I let the boys help each other remember, so it's not awkward for someone who can't remember.
We will also be writing a thank-you note for #18e. I have used this template for
thank-you cards. If they write a note to their teacher, parents, and grandparents telling them what they appreciate and respect about them, it will also count for a Faith in God requirement under Serving Others.
