Cub Scouts
Cub Scouts is a program from Scouting America for boys and girls from Kindergarten through 5th grade. It offers fun and learning through various adventures, helping kids develop new skills, make friends, and have fun. The program was updated on June 1, 2024, to better meet the needs of young Scouts.
Cub Scouts work on Core and Elective Adventures. Core Adventures teach important values like character, fitness, citizenship, safety, and family values. Elective Adventures let kids explore their interests in areas like science, technology, sports, and the outdoors. These activities help build confidence and responsibility.
As Cub Scouts complete adventures, they earn belt loops or pins to recognize their achievements. Lions, Tigers, Wolves and Bears earn belt loops to recognize their achievements. Webelos and Arrow of Light Scouts earn pins. They also work towards earning rank patches for their grade level. This system encourages continuous learning and goal-setting.
Learn more about specific levels below.
- Lion (Kindergarten)
- Tiger (1st Grade)
- Wolf (2nd Grade)
- Bear (3rd Grade)
- Webelos (4th Grade)
- Arrow of Light (5th Grade)
The program is designed to be flexible and fun, allowing each child to progress at their own pace. It also emphasizes community involvement, teaching Scouts the importance of helping others and working together.
Find a Cub Scout Pack in your area.
Overall, Cub Scouts prepares kids for future challenges and adventures. It provides a foundation of skills and values that will serve them throughout their lives. The updated program aims to make Cub Scouting more exciting and relevant for today’s youth.
Lion (Kindergarten)
The Lion badge program introduces Kindergarten kids to Cub Scouts. It helps them learn new things, make friends, and have fun. The program includes Core and Elective Adventures that teach about the outdoors, technology, and more.
In Core Adventures, Lion Cubs learn about character, outdoor activities, fitness, citizenship, safety, and family values. These activities build confidence and responsibility. Elective Adventures let Cubs explore their interests, like building, STEM, sports, and camping. New skills in math and tech are also introduced. This program helps Lion Cubs earn belt loops, enjoy various activities, and prepare for future scouting and life experiences.
Tiger (1st Grade)
The Tiger badge program is for first graders, helping 7-year-olds explore different activities. It teaches them about nature, health, teamwork, and safety through Core and Elective Adventures.
In Core Adventures, Tiger Cubs learn about good values, enjoying the outdoors, staying healthy, and helping their community. They also learn about safety and respect for others. Elective Adventures offer choices like science, building, and outdoor activities, including new options like archery and technology. This program helps Tiger Cubs have fun, make friends, earn belt loops, and prepare for more scouting adventures, all while learning to be good community members.
Wolf (2nd Grade)
The Wolf badge program is for second-grade Cub Scouts, designed to teach 8-year-olds through fun and educational activities. Wolf Cubs learn about the outdoors, health, citizenship, and safety.
The program includes Core and Elective Adventures, allowing Cubs to explore interests and develop new skills. Core Adventures cover character building, nature, exercise, community involvement, and safety. Elective Adventures let Cubs dive into STEM, history, and outdoor activities like fishing and water sports. This program helps Cubs try new things, make friends, and gain confidence as they earn belt loops and prepare for future scouting challenges.
Bear (3rd Grade)
The Bear badge program is for third-grade Cub Scouts. It includes activities that help them learn about the outdoors, fitness, citizenship, and safety.
Bear Cubs work on core adventures to build character and leadership skills. They explore nature, learn about health, and get involved in their community. They also pick elective adventures that match their interests, like science, technology, and outdoor fun. Activities range from building and science experiments to fishing and biking. This program helps Cubs grow, make friends, and gain confidence. It prepares them for future challenges and teaches them about teamwork and perseverance.
Webelos (4th Grade)
The Webelos badge program is for fourth-grade Cub Scouts. It helps them learn new skills and get ready for Scouts BSA. This program includes outdoor activities, fitness, citizenship, safety, and family values.
Webelos work on core adventures like exploring the outdoors and personal fitness. They also choose elective adventures in areas like swimming, science, and technology. These activities teach them independence and respect. Earning pins in this program shows they are growing and ready for more challenges in scouting. This program is separate from the Arrow of Light.
Arrow of Light (5th Grade)
The Arrow of Light is the highest award a Cub Scout can earn. It prepares fifth graders for Scouts BSA. This program teaches outdoor skills, fitness, citizenship, safety, and family values.
Arrow of Light Scouts do activities to build character and leadership, like Outdoor Adventurer and First Aid. They also choose extra activities they like, such as engineering or swimming. Earning this award shows they are ready for more adventures and have learned important skills. The Arrow of Light is a big step in their scouting journey.
See requirements and resources for the Arrow of Light adventures
Resources for Parents and Den Leaders
Welcome New Den Leaders
Being a new den leader can feel like a lot at first, but you are not alone. Many others have started where you are. Try to connect with a more experienced leader in your pack. If your pack does not offer a mentor, reach out to another local pack or your district. Most leaders are happy to help. Ask questions, even if they seem small. Online training is always available at my.scouting.org. Many councils also offer in-person training. These can be helpful, especially when you can talk with others and ask questions face-to-face.
There are many tools to help you succeed. My website also has resources to help you plan and lead fun and meaningful meetings. Your job is to help the scouts learn, grow, and have fun, including den leader guides and den meeting plans. They will remember these years, and your leadership will help shape their path. Thank you for taking this role. It makes a real difference. Keep showing up, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. You’ve got this.
Ask Me a Question or Share Your Ideas With Others
Do you have a question about Cub Scouting? Or maybe you have a tip or idea that worked well with your den? Use the form above to send it to me. I read every message and try to answer as many as I can. If you ask a question, check back later to see if I’ve written a post about it. This is a great way to learn from others and share what you know. You are not the only one with questions. Others may be wondering the same thing. Your question could help other den leaders too.
Cub Scouting works best when we share ideas and support each other. I’m here to help make things easier for you. If you send in a good idea, I might post it on the Scouter Mom website. That way, other leaders can use it too. Whether it’s a fun game, a good way to teach a requirement, or a tip for working with parents, your ideas matter. Don’t wait—send it in today. I love hearing from other Scouters. We all learn by sharing what works. Let’s make Cub Scouting better together.
Scout Moms, Dads, and Leaders Facebook Group
Join the Scout Moms, Dads, and Leaders Facebook Group to meet others who are on the same path. This group is made for Cub Scout parents and leaders. It’s a place to ask questions, share stories, and learn from others. If you’re not sure how to plan a meeting or need help with a requirement, just ask. Someone in the group has likely been there before. You don’t have to figure things out on your own. This group is friendly, helpful, and full of people who care about making Scouting fun and successful for every family.
This Facebook group is a great tool for any Cub Scout parent or leader. You can find tips for games, meeting plans, and activities. You can also ask for help when something isn’t working. People in the group are willing to share what worked for them. It’s a good place to talk about what’s going well and what’s been hard. Whether you’ve been involved for years or just started, there’s always something new to learn. Take a minute to join the group and see what others are doing in their packs and dens.
Scout Recognition Certificate – Fill In Your Own Information
Recognizing scouts helps build confidence and encourages them to keep going. This fill-in-the-blank certificate is an easy way to show your scout that their hard work matters. You can use it for any occasion—rank advancement, a merit badge, a special award, or just a job well done. You decide what the certificate is for. Just type in the scout’s name, the reason for the award, and the date. Then print it and present it at a meeting or ceremony. It’s a simple way to make a scout feel proud and show that their effort is noticed.
This idea came from John M, a Webelos leader who made his own certificate for a crossover ceremony. He shared it with others, and it quickly became popular. Many leaders wanted something like it to use in their own packs and troops. I made a new version based on his idea. This version lets you use it for any rank or award. Just fill in the details and make it your own. It’s a great way to thank scouts for staying active and doing their best. A small gesture like this can make a big difference.
Pack Meeting Themes
Pack meeting themes add fun and energy to your monthly gatherings. They help Cub Scouts stay interested and make it easier to plan activities. A good theme gives your meeting a clear focus. It connects games, songs, crafts, and ceremonies around one idea. You can pick themes that match the seasons, special days, or skills Cub Scouts need to learn. Themes also give leaders and parents simple ways to get involved. When everyone works together around one topic, meetings run smoother and feel more exciting for the kids.
You can use themes for regular meetings or special events like the Blue and Gold banquet or Webelos crossover. These events feel more special when they match a fun or meaningful theme. I have a number of ideas on my Pack Meeting Themes page. These can help you find the right one for your group. Try something new to keep things fresh. A good theme helps Scouts learn, grow, and have fun all at the same time.
Cub Scout Pack Committee
The Cub Scout Pack Committee is an important part of running a strong pack. It helps the Cubmaster by handling many of the behind-the-scenes jobs. At least three adults are needed. These adults are chosen by the chartered organization and must agree to follow Scouting principles. The committee takes care of leader recruitment, finding places to meet, and making sure the pack’s charter is renewed each year. They also manage the pack’s money and budget. These tasks let the Cubmaster focus more on the program and working with the youth.
The committee also helps make sure leaders get the training they need. This keeps the program safe and fun for everyone. Another important job is working with nearby Scouts BSA troops. This helps Cub Scouts move into Scouts BSA smoothly when they finish Arrow of Light. Giving each committee member a clear job helps things run better. When the committee is strong and active, it supports the Cubmaster and helps offer a full year of fun, learning, and growth for the Cub Scouts.
What Does the Cubmaster Do?
The Cubmaster is the main leader who helps bring the Cub Scout program to life. They must be at least 21 and registered with Scouting America. The Cubmaster leads the monthly pack meetings and works with the Pack Committee to follow the program plan. This includes helping to plan fun activities that match Scouting goals. The Cubmaster also makes sure the program follows Scouting rules and attends monthly Roundtables to stay up to date. They help recruit new leaders and assist with planning the budget so the pack has what it needs to run well.
A big part of the Cubmaster’s job is working with Den Leaders and families. They encourage Den Leaders and help when needed. The Cubmaster keeps parents informed and looks for ways to include the whole family in pack activities. They also recognize Cub Scouts for their hard work and achievements, which helps keep the Scouts excited and motivated. Traditional Scouting parts like ceremonies and uniforms are also part of the Cubmaster’s role. With support from the committee, the Cubmaster helps create a full year of learning and fun for the Scouts.
What Does the Pack Committee Chair Do?
The Pack Committee Chair is the main leader of the Pack Committee. They must be at least 21, registered with Scouting America, and agree to follow Scouting rules and values. The Chair works closely with the chartered organization and the Cubmaster to run a strong Cub Scout program. They lead the monthly committee meetings and help set the plan for the year. The Chair is also in charge of rechartering the pack each year and helping to create a budget. Their leadership helps keep everything organized and on track.
The Chair makes sure all adult roles are filled and that leaders have the training they need, including Youth Protection. They find places for the pack to meet and plan fundraising to support activities. They also help make sure Webelos Scouts have a smooth move into Scouts BSA. The Chair delegates tasks so that everyone has a clear job. A strong Chair helps the whole pack work better and gives the Cubmaster the support needed to lead a fun and active program.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cub Scouts
What is Cub Scouts?
Cub Scouts is a program by Scouting America for boys and girls in Kindergarten through 5th grade. It helps kids learn new skills, make friends, and have fun through different adventures.
Who can join Cub Scouts?
Boys and girls in Kindergarten through 5th grade can join Cub Scouts. It is open to all children within this age range.
What do Cub Scouts do?
Cub Scouts participate in various activities called Core and Elective Adventures. These include outdoor activities, science projects, sports, and community service. They learn about character, fitness, safety, and family values.
How do Cub Scouts earn awards?
Cub Scouts earn belt loops or pins by completing adventures. They also work towards earning rank patches for their grade level.
How often do Cub Scouts meet?
Cub Scouts usually meet twice a month for den meetings. There are also pack meetings once a month. The schedule can vary depending on the pack.
What is a den?
A den is a small group of Cub Scouts in the same grade. They meet regularly to work on adventures together.
What is a pack?
A pack is the larger group that includes all the dens in a Cub Scout program. Packs meet monthly for activities and events.
How much does it cost to join Cub Scouts?
The cost to join Cub Scouts varies by pack. There is usually a registration fee, and there may be additional costs for uniforms, activities, and supplies.
Do parents need to be involved?
Yes, parent involvement is important in Cub Scouts. Parents help with meetings, activities, and supporting their child’s progress.
How can I find a Cub Scout pack near me?
You can find a Cub Scout pack near you by visiting the Scouting America website and using their pack locator tool. You can also contact your local Scouting America council for more information.
Small Steps, Big Adventures
The Cub Scout program is designed for boys and girls from Kindergarten through 5th grade. It helps young children develop skills, make friends, and have fun through various adventures. The program is divided into different levels, each tailored to the child’s age and grade. Each level includes a mix of Core and Elective Adventures, which teach valuable lessons in character, fitness, safety, and community involvement.
In Cub Scouts, children earn belt loops and pins by completing these adventures. They also work towards earning rank patches, which mark their progress through the program. Activities are hands-on and engaging, encouraging kids to explore their interests and try new things. From science projects to outdoor activities, there is something for every child.
The program emphasizes the importance of community and family involvement. Parents and leaders work together to guide the Cub Scouts and support their development. Meetings and events are planned around themes that make learning fun and memorable. These themes help keep the program fresh and exciting, motivating children and families to participate.
Cub Scouts prepares young children for future challenges and adventures. It builds a foundation of skills and values that will benefit them throughout their lives. The updated program, as of June 1, 2024, aims to make Cub Scouting even more relevant and enjoyable for today’s youth.
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