What is Cub Scouting?

Boys in the first through fifth grades (or ages 7, 8, 9, or 10) may join a Cub Scout pack and be assigned to a den, usually made up of boys in a neighborhood who form a natural play group. Tiger Cub dens usually meet twice a month, while Cub Scout and Webelos Scout den meetings are usually held once a week. 

Once a month, all of the dens and family members gather for a pack meeting under the direction of a Cubmaster and pack committee. The committee includes parents of boys in the pack and members of the chartered organization. 

 

The Program 

 

In 1930, the Boy Scouts of America created a new opportunity called Cub Scouting for boys younger than Boy Scout age. A year-round, home-centered program used by chartered organizations, Cub Scouting emphasizes involvement between boys and their parents, adult leaders, and friends. In the multidimensional plan of the Boy Scouts of America, Cub Scouting is where it all begins. Currently, it is the largest of the organization's three membership divisions. (The others are Boy Scouting and Venturing.) 

• Cub Scouting has the following purposes: 

• Influence a boy's character development and spiritual growth.
• Develop habits and attitudes of good citizenship.
• Encourage good sportsmanship and pride in growing strong in mind and body.
• Improve understanding within the family.
• Strengthen a boy's ability to get along with others.
• Foster a sense of personal achievement by developing new interests and skills.
• Provide fun and exciting new things to do.
• Show a boy how to be helpful and do his best.
• Prepare him to be a Boy Scout.

At den meetings, a Cub Scout starts an activity. Perhaps it is a project or a stunt for the next pack meeting. During the week, with his parents' help, he finishes the project or perfects the stunt. If it happens to be something required for his Wolf or Bear advancement, his parent signs his Cub Scout book. In this way, Cub Scouting helps to strengthen family ties. 

Pack meetings, attended by boys and their families, give parents a chance to see their sons in action. Most pack meetings are divided into two parts. The first is informal - boys and parents may view exhibits or participate in gathering-time activities. The second half has a formal opening, followed by den skits, songs, games, or stunts related to a monthly theme, and the awarding of badges earned by the boys since the last pack meeting. 

Adventuresome outdoor programs are encouraged for Cub Scouts. These include den field trips, picnics, outings, day camping, and resident camping. Because Cub Scouting is home-centered, family camping is also emphasized. Webelos Scouts are encouraged to go on overnight experiences and to conduct occasional joint outdoor activities with a Boy Scout troop. Cub Scout day camps are conducted by most BSA local councils, and many also provide resident camping experiences for Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts.