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Description

Explain that in Belgian scouting, a totem is a special name given to scouts that represents their character and values. This tradition is a significant part of the scouting experience in Belgium. The totem is usually the name of an animal that embodies the scout's personality traits. For example, a scout might receive the totem name "Cockatoo" if they are intelligent, curious, and friendly. There are around 400 animals described on their official online Totem tool.

The process of receiving a totem is called "totemization," and it typically happens after a scout has been part of the group for a few years. The totem can also include an adjective that further describes the scout's qualities, such as "Courageous Penguin" or "Group-Oriented Parrot".

Totems are an important part of the scout's identity and are used in various scouting activities and ceremonies. They help foster a sense of belonging and recognition within the scouting community.

Resources

Attachment (digital is fine)

Pen and paper

Instructions

Keeping the answers secret, ask the YP to complete the personality quiz. Ask their lodge/six to select a word for them which is very specific to them, from a list of complimentary adjectives. Where there is a tie, the leader should decide the most suitable animal for the YP based on the leading results and their own observation.

At the end, hold a mini ceremony to tell each Beaver their totem, with the adjective and the animal, giving the traits of any chosen animal.

Note: You can use the results of the "what they like most about Scouting" question and discussions for feedback.

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