Scouting America’s most important training has been updated with an entirely new look and feel, including a greater emphasis on the organization’s SAFE initiative, updated information on technology and the threat to youth online, and the use of real volunteers in real Scouting environments.

The training previously known as Youth Protection is now called Safeguarding Youth and is available immediately on my.Scouting.

“Scouting is extremely safe when we follow our protocols as designed,” says Scouting America Chief Safeguarding Officer Glen Pounder, who unveiled the new training at the 2025 National Annual Meeting earlier this month. “The aim is to empower all of our great Scouting families to enjoy the magic of Scouting in a safe way. By following those barriers, they’ll have a much better Scouting experience.”

It is critical that every adult in our program – whether they are a uniformed leader or a parent of a Scout – knows and follows Scouting’s Youth Protection policies. Even if you are not a registered Scout leader or volunteer, it is your responsibility as a parent or guardian to know and understand youth protection guidelines. One of the best ways to do this is to take S.A.F.E Guarding Youth Training. Another is to review the youth protection parent guide included at the front of your child’s Scout handbook. This knowledge will not only benefit you and your child in Scouting, but also equip you to recognize the behavior of potential abusers in your child’s school, sports teams, house of worship, or other activities. 

UPDATE: Your existing Youth Protection Training remains valid until May 31, 2026, at which point the new Safeguarding Youth Training will be required.

Scouting America’s proactive approach to youth safety underscores its dedication to providing a secure and enriching environment where young people can learn, grow, and thrive. The launch of this enhanced Safeguarding Youth Training demonstrates a continuous effort to adapt and improve safety measures, ensuring the well-being of all Scouts remains the top priority.