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Abilities Digest
Provides updates and news about special needs scouting. A publication of the National Special Needs and Disabilities Committee.
194 postsLatest Aug 9, 2026Since Oct 17, 2016
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Browse allAbilities Digest·August 9, 2026Toolbox Article on FishingThe Inclusion Toolbox article on Fishing is now available. It was developed in conjunction with the Scouting America National Fishing Leadership Team. Here is a summary of the contents: PURPOSE OVERVIEW FIGURING OUT GENERAL RULES FOR EVERYONE HOSTING A CAMP ARRIVALS ORIENTATION ASSESSING SHORELINE SAFETY FOR DISABILITIES MOBILITY ACCESS TO THE WATER’S EDGE Gripping One-Handed […]
Abilities Digest·January 30, 20262026 Inclusion ToolboxWe have posted a 2026 version of the entire Inclusion Toolbox in a single PDF. This is designed for people who would like to print it all out as a single document.
Abilities Digest·January 14, 2026NorCal CCS Virtual Training 2026The Northern California Commissioner College is scheduled for February 28, 2026. It offers a Special Needs Track (5 classes) will be hybrid, i.e., in person and via Zoom. Registration is open at norcalcommissioner.org.
Abilities Digest·December 14, 2025Abilities Digest Winter 2026Here is the actual Winter 2026 issue of Abilities Digest, after a false start earlier. It includes: Safety Moment: Campfire Safety ToolBox Spotlight: Language Matters Making Advancement Clearer: Venturers and Sea Scouts Awareness Events: Jamboree 2026 and Philmont 2026 Conferences! Eagle Project Spotlight: Body Mapping Resources Recognizing Abilities: Torch of Gold, Woods Services deadline
Abilities Digest·May 30, 2025Abilities Digest Spring 2025Here is the Spring 2025 issue of Abilities Digest, which includes: Awareness Events: Zia Trek; Adaptive Outdoor Conference Spotlight: Special Needs Prepared Camps Pilot Recognizing Abilities: 2025 Woods Services Award Winners Making Advancement Clearer: Accommodation vs. Modification Best Practices: Promoting Positive Communication; Enhancing Camp Nutrition.
Abilities Digest·February 13, 2025NorCal CCS Virtual TrainingThe Northern California Commissioner College is coming on February 22nd. It is offering a virtual track with five classes on Special Needs and Disabilities. One class will address the newly revised Guide to Advancement SECTION 10 on advancement for special needs and disabilities. Registration is open at norcalcommissioner.org
Abilities Digest·January 14, 2025Abilities Digest Winter 2025Abilities Digest has a new look! Here is the Winter 2025 issue, which includes: Adapting Activities: Best practices for ADHD & behavior challenges Making Advancement Clearer: GTA 2025 Section 10 Update Spotlight: Why ADHD Pushes Our Buttons Awareness Events: Summer at Philmont Recognizing Abilities: Deadline for Woods Services Award.
Abilities Digest·November 25, 2024Philmont SND Activities 2025The Philmont Scout Ranch offers three SND-related activities next summer: Zia Trek: a 7-day Philmont back-country trek for Scouts with special needs. Zia Family Experience: a week-long Philmont experience to Scouts with disabilities and their families. Adaptive Outdoor Conference: strategies for adult leaders to support Scouts with special needs and disabilities. Philmont is located in […]
Abilities Digest·November 19, 2024SND Roundtable 5 DecemberOur quarterly Special Needs and Disabilities (SND) Roundtable takes place at 6pm Central Time on Thursday 5 December 2024. Register by clicking the button below:
Abilities Digest·September 11, 2024Abilities Digest Summer 2024Here is the (Late) Summer 2024 issue of Abilities Digest. Contents include: Adapting Activities: Trekking Philmont with the Zia Trek; Eagle project for a SND organization; Pilot for Special Needs Prepared Camps Recognizing Abilities: 2024 Woods Services hon-orees; the council-level Torch of Gold award. Enhancing Awareness: Updates to the Inclusion toolbox