Parent Information Pages
The Scout Sign
The Scout Sign is only ever used when making the Beaver Scout. Cub Scout or Scout Promise. When someone new is making their Promise, the Leader will normally ask everyone to make the Sign. You do not need to be in uniform to make the sign, and anyone who has previously made their Promise may use the Sign on these formal occassions independent of whether they are still active member of Scouting
The Scout Salute
The Scout Salute is made only by Members of the Movement in uniform on formal Scout occasions, as a mark of respect at the hoisting of National flags, at the playing of National Anthems, to uncased Colours and Scout flags.
The Scout Handshake
Shaking Hands - Scouts traditionally shake hands with their left hand.
There have been many explanations of the origin of the left handshake. Perhaps one of the more 'romantic' explanations can be found in an 'explanation' by Baden Powell himself.
Baden Powell would tell the story of two tribes in Africa that were constantly at war with one another. One day the leader of one of the tribes decided to make peace with the opposing tribe. The leader met the opposing tribe leader on the border of his territory. He threw down his shield and held out his left hand in friendship. This was an important sign of trust and friendship as shaking with your left hand meant lowering your shield while the other person still had their spear in their right hand.