Scouting, or the Scout movement, is a worldwide youth movement of multiple organizations for both boys and girls whose aim is to develop young people physically, spiritually and mentally so that youth may take a constructive place in society. The movement employs a program of non-formal education with emphasis on practical activities in the outdoors, using the Scout method with programs targeted for up to five age groups, as defined by the founders of Scouting in the early 20th century. Most countries have Scouting programs for children and young adults from ages 6 to their early 20s.

Scouting began in 1907 when R.S.S. Baden-Powell, Lieutenant General in the British Army, held the first Scouting encampment at Brownsea Island Scout camp, England. He was at that time a good friend of William Alexander Smith, founder of the Boys' Brigade. In 2006, Scouting and Guiding have over 38 million members in 217 countries and territories represented through different Scouting associations at the international level. The works of Ernest Thompson Seton and Daniel Carter Beard were influential in the early development of Scouting. Internationally, Scouting has become a significant part of popular culture.

The movement is not without controversy. International Scouting associations have formed outside of the mainstream. Policies on membership regarding sexual orientation, religion and co-education differ between Scouting associations.

One of the major aspects of being a part of one of these groups is the focus on camping and the outdoors. During a members time in one of the clubs many camping excursions are likely to have been organised. The aim is to teach children survival skills and the beauty of nature from a young age so that they will grow up with the ability to look after themselves, others and the environment.

The movements' main aim is to teach by fun. On the excursions that often last a weekend, children will play games and participate in activities that they will find fun but that will also be teaching them so basic, and very useful survival skills including such simple things as finding shelter when there doesn't seem to be any.