Getting Started in Scouting

We’re all about encouraging boys and girls to make friends, be helpful to others, and do their very best no matter the outcome. With the help of powerful learning projects and exciting outdoor activities, we aim to teach children that doing their best can be a fun and rewarding experience—no matter the difficulty of the challenge. To learn more about Cub Scouting, Scouts BSA, or how to volunteer, follow the links below!

Welcome to Cub Scouts!

The mission of the Boy Scouts of America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.

AIMS OF SCOUTING

  • Character
  • Citizenship
  • Personal Fitness
  • Leadership

METHODS OF SCOUTING

LIVING THE IDEALS

Cub Scouting’s values are embedded in the Scout Oath, the Scout Law, the Cub Scout motto, and the Cub Scout sign, handshake, and salute. These practices help establish and reinforce the program’s values in Scouts and the leaders who guide them.

BELONGING TO A DEN

The den is ideally a group of six to eight children who are in the same grade. It is the place where Cub Scouting starts. In the den, Cub Scouts develop new skills and interests, practice sportsmanship and good citizenship, and learn to do their best, not just for themselves but for the den as well.

ADVANCEMENT

Recognition is important to everyone. The advancement plan provides fun for the Scouts, gives them a sense of personal achievement as they earn badges, and strengthens family understanding as adult family members and their den leader work with them on advancement projects.

FAMILY INVOLVEMENT

Whether a Cub Scout lives with two parents or one, a foster family, or other relatives, their family is an important part of Cub Scouting. Parents and adult family members provide leadership and support for Cub Scouting and help ensure that Scouts have a good experience in the program.

ACTIVITIES

Cub Scouts participate in a huge array of activities, including games, projects, skits, stunts, songs, outdoor activities, trips, and service projects. Besides being fun, these activities offer opportunities for growth, achievement, and family involvement.

SERVING THE NEIGHBORHOOD

Cub Scouting focuses on the home and neighborhood. It helps Scouts strengthen connections to their local communities, which in turn supports their growth and development.

UNIFORM

Cub Scout uniforms serve a dual purpose, demonstrating that a Scout is part of a team and showing individual achievement (Scouts wear the badges they’ve earned). Wearing the uniform to meetings and activities also encourages a neat appearance,  and good behavior.

Program Research

Scouting works with colleges, universities, and other research based organizations to study the impact Scouting has on youth.  These studies help us determine if we are meeting the needs of children and fulfilling our mission.

DEVELOPMENTAL ASSETS

The Search Institute has identified forty building blocks of healthy development that help young people grow up healthy, caring, and responsible.

Search Institute’s 40 Developmental Assets applied to Cub Scouting

TUFT’S STUDY

The project surveyed nearly 1,800 Cub Scouts and nearly 400 non-Scouts under age 12 using both interviews and survey data.

Tufts University Study Infographic

EAGLE SCOUTS: MERIT BEYOND THE BADGE

This independent research was funded by the Templeton Foundation and conducted by Baylor University.

Eagle Scouts: Merit Beyond the Badge

When compared to the cost of sports and many other activities, there is no doubt that Scouting delivers great value to its members!  Costs include BSA membership fees, uniform costs, and nominal activity fees that may be charged locally. Of course, these costs may be offset by unit fundraising and other available scholarship funds. Please contact your local unit leadership for details.

BSA MEMBERSHIP

The national registration fee is $105*.  This includes a one-time joining fee of $25 and an annual fee of $80**.   For only $15 for the year,  Cub Scouts may subscribe to Scout Life magazine. The Baltimore Area Council charges $4.08 per person per year for insurance. 

*Price subject to change / **Effective August 1, 2023

UNIFORM

The uniform is a method of delivering the Scouting program.  It shows that you are a member of a team.  Each grade has a specific uniform for their program. Uniform costs vary. 

HANDBOOK

Each grade level has a specific handbook they use.  Handbooks are about $24 and are used for the year.  Handbooks have all the required and elective adventures for each rank.  Handbooks also serve as a Scout’s record of completing adventures.

FIND A SCOUT SHOP NEAR YOU

ORDER FROM SCOUTSHOP.ORG

DUES

To cover the costs of awards and recognition, crafts, and special events most local packs have dues.  Packs may offer opportunities to conduct fundraisers to offset these costs.  Dues are established by the families in the pack through the pack committee.

ACTIVITIES

Additional activities such as overnight camp outs, field trips, day camps and resident camps have additional costs associated with them.  These costs differ based on several factors.  Detailed information can be provided by the local pack leadership.

Cub Scout activities are centered around earning  badges that are specific to each school grade level.  This badge represents a rank.  Advancement refers to the progress a Cub Scout makes toward their badge of rank.  All of the activities for each rank are in the Cub Scout handbooks.

Adventures

Based on different topics such as hiking, nature, science, citizenship, first aid, sports, and more, adventures are earned as a Cub Scout advances toward their badge of rank.  Once an adventure is completed, a Cub Scout receives recognition in the form of an adventure loop or adventure pin.

Awards and Recognition

Kindergarten through third grade; Lions, Tigers, Wolves, and Bears earn metal adventure loops.  These are designed to slide onto a Cub Scout’s belt.

Fourth and fifth grade, Webelos, earn metal adventure pins.  These pins are placed on the Webelos Colors or on a Webelos hat.

There are several awards Cub Scouts can earn beyond their badge of rank.

  • In partnership with dozens of faith organizations representing different religions, youth may earn the Religious Emblem of their faith.
  • The recruiter patch is awarded to Cub Scouts who bring other youth into Scouting.

Lion – Kindergarten

 The Lion Cub Scout uniform has the following parts:

Shirt: The official Lion t-shirt.

Belt: Official navy-blue web belt with metal buckle.

Cap: Official navy-blue Lion cap.

Neckerchief: Optional Lion neckerchief. The Lion den decides if they will wear the neckerchief.

Neckerchief Slide: Optional Lion neckerchief slide.

Official uniform pants, shorts, or skorts, and Cub Scout socks are optional. Use of these items for Lions is decided by the den leader and families in the den. There is no uniform inspection sheet for Lions.

Tiger – First Grade

The Tiger Cub Scout uniform has the following parts;

Shirt: The official blue uniform shirt is available with long or short sleeves and has button-flap pockets.

Pants: Shorts, long pants, skorts, and roll up pants all are in official blue.

Belt: Official navy-blue web belt with metal buckle.

Socks: Official socks are available in three lengths: ankle, crew, and knee. Tiger socks have an orange band on the top.

Hat: Official blue hat with orange front and Tiger emblem.

Neckerchief: Orange triangular neckerchief with Tiger logo. Official BSA neckerchiefs are the only neckerchiefs that are part of the uniform.

Neckerchief slide: Official gold-tone metal slide with orange Tiger emblem. Cub Scouts may wear handmade neckerchief slides.

Wolf – Second Grade

The Wolf Cub Scout uniform has the following parts:

Shirt: The official blue uniform shirt is available with long or short sleeves and has button-flap pockets.

Pants: Shorts, long pants, skorts, and roll up pants all are in official blue.

Belt: Official navy-blue web belt with metal buckle.

Socks: Official socks are available in three lengths: ankle, crew, and knee. Wolf socks have a yellow band on the top.

Hat: Official hat red front and Wolf emblem.

Neckerchief: Red triangular neckerchief with Wolf logo. Official BSA neckerchiefs are the only neckerchiefs that are part of the uniform.

Neckerchief slide: Official gold-tone metal slide with red Wolf emblem. Cub Scouts may wear handmade neckerchief slides.

Bear – Third Grade

The Bear Cub Scout uniform has the following parts:

Shirt: The official blue uniform shirt is available with long or short sleeves and has button-flap pockets.

Pants: Shorts, long pants, skorts, and roll up pants all are in official blue.

Belt: Official navy-blue web belt with metal buckle.

Socks: Official socks are available in three lengths: ankle, crew, and knee. Bear socks have a yellow band on the top.

Hat: Official blue hat with light blue front and Bear emblem.

Neckerchief: Light blue triangular neckerchief with Bear logo. Of

ficial BSA neckerchiefs are the only neckerchiefs that are part of the uniform.

Neckerchief Slide: Official gold-tone metal slide with light blue Bear emblem. Cub Scouts may wear handmade neckerchief slides.

Webelos – Fourth and Fifth Grade

The Webelos Cub Scout uniform has the following parts:

Shirt: The official tan uniform shirt is available with long or short sleeves and has button-flap pockets.

Pants: The official green shorts, long pants, skorts, and roll up pants.

Belt: Official navy-blue web belt with metal buckle or the green web belt with BSA buckle.

Socks: Official green socks are available in three lengths: ankle, crew, and knee.

Hat: Official green hat with Webelos plaid front and Webelos emblem.

Neckerchief: Webelos plaid triangular neckerchief with Webelos logo. Official BSA neckerchiefs are the only neckerchiefs that are part of the uniform.

Neckerchief Slide: Official gold-tone metal slide with Webelos emblem. Cub Scouts may wear handmade neckerchief slides.

Webelos Colors: The Webelos Colors is an optional uniform piece that is worn on the right sleeve to display the Webelos Adventure Pins that have been earned. If the Webelos Colors are not used, Webelos Adventure Pins may be worn on the Webelos hat.

Organizational Overview

Chartered Organization

This is the organization that partners with the Boy Scouts of America to deliver a Scouting program.  They adopt Scouting to serve the youth in the community.

Pack

The pack is made up of several dens.  The make up and size of the pack varies based on local interest and resources. Each pack is identified by a number.

Dens

A small group of Cub Scouts who are the same gender and in the same grade.  The ideal size is 6 to 8 Cub Scouts.

Volunteer Leaders

Den Leaders

An adult, usually a parent, serves as a Den Leader. They carry out the activities related to adventures as they are presented in the Cub Scout’s handbook and the Den Leader Guide.

Cubmaster

The leader of the pack meeting is the Cubmaster.  In addition to serving as the master of ceremonies the Cubmaster provides support to Den Leaders.

Pack Committee

Made up of parents, leaders, and other caring adults the pack committee works to support den leaders and the cubmaster.

Pack Committee Chair

The top volunteer in the pack is the Pack Committee Chair.  They are responsible for ensuring enough qualified adult volunteers are in place to provide the program.  They lead the pack committee meetings.

Chartered Organization Representative

This person appoints the Pack Committee Chair and approves all adult leaders.  They provide resources from the chartered organization.

Kindergarten - Lion Requirements

Kindergartners work toward the Lion rank. The Lion rank is earned by completing five adventures as described below. Although participation with an adult partner is required for all Lion awards, recognition items are for the Scouts only.

  1. Complete the five required adventures:

Lion’s Honor

Animal Kingdom

Fun on the Run!

King of the Jungle

Mountain Lion

  1. With your parent or guardian, complete the exercises in the pamphlet entitled How to Protect Your Children From Child Abuse: A Parent’s Guide.

Outside of the required adventures, Lion Scouts can also complete any of the seven elective adventures of their den’s or family’s choosing.

First graders work toward the Tiger rank. The Tiger rank is earned by completing the four requirements below. Although participation with an adult partner is required for all Tiger awards, recognition items are for the Scouts only.

  1. Complete each of the six required adventures:

Games Tigers Play

My Tiger Jungle

Team Tiger

Tiger Bites

Tiger Circles: Duty to God

Tigers in the Wild

  1. In addition to the six required adventures, complete at least one elective adventure of your den’s or family’s choosing.
  2.  
  3. With your parent, guardian, or other caring adult, complete the exercises in the pamphlet entitled How to Protect Your Children From Child Abuse: A Parent’s Guide.
  4.  
  5. Watch the Protect Yourself Rules video for 1st Grade, Tiger. OR Earn the Protect Yourself Rules Preview Adventure for Tiger.

Second graders work toward the Wolf rank. The Wolf rank is earned by completing the four requirements described below.

  1. Complete each of the six required adventures:

Call of the Wild

Council Fire (Duty to Country)

Duty to God Footsteps

Howling at the Moon

Paws on the Path

Running With the Pack

  1. In addition to the six required adventures, complete at least one elective adventure of your den’s or family’s choosing.
  2.  
  3. With your parent, guardian, or other caring adult, complete the exercises in the pamphlet entitled How to Protect Your Children From Child Abuse: A Parent’s Guide.
  4.  
  5. Watch the Protect Yourself Rules video for 2nd Grade, Wolf OR Earn the Protect Yourself Rules Preview Adventure for Wolf.

Third graders work toward the Bear rank. The Bear rank is earned by completing the four requirements as described below.

  1. Complete each of the six required adventures:

Baloo the Builder

Bear Claws

Bear Necessities

Fellowship and Duty to God

Fur, Feathers, and Ferns

Paws for Action (Duty to Country)

  1. In addition to the six required adventures, complete at least one elective adventure of your den’s or family’s choosing.
  2.  
  3. With your parent, guardian, or other caring adult, complete the exercises in the pamphlet entitled How to Protect Your Children From Child Abuse: A Parent’s Guide.
  4.  
  5. Watch the Protect Yourself Rules video for 3rd Grade, Bear OR Earn the Protect Yourself Rules Preview Adventure for Bear.

Fourth graders work toward the Webelos rank. The Webelos rank is earned by completing the five requirements described below.  Scouts who are in Cub Scouts in fourth grade must complete the Webelos rank before working towards the Arrow of Light.

  1. Complete each of the five required adventures:

Cast Iron Chef

Duty to God and You

First Responder

Stronger, Faster, Higher

Webelos Walkabout

  1.  
  2. In addition to the five required adventures, complete at least one elective adventure of your den’s or family’s choosing.
  3.  
  4. Be an active member of your Webelos den for three months.
  5.  
  6. With your parent, guardian, or other caring adult, complete the exercises in the pamphlet entitled How to Protect Your Children From Child Abuse: A Parent’s Guide.
  7. Watch the Protect Yourself Rules video for 4th Grade, Webelos OR Earn the Protect Yourself Rules Preview Adventure for Webelos.

Fifth graders work toward the Arrow of Light rank.  If a fourth-grade Cub Scout has completed the Webelos rank, they may begin work on the Arrow of Light. The Arrow of Light rank is earned by completing the five requirements described below.

  1. Complete each of the four required adventures:

Building a Better World

Duty to God in Action

Outdoor Adventurer

Scouting Adventure

  1. In addition to the four required adventures, complete at least one elective adventure of your den’s or family’s choosing.
  2.  
  3. Be an active member of your Webelos den for at least six months since completing the fourth grade or for at least six months since becoming 10 years old.
  4.  
  5. With your parent, guardian, or other caring adult, complete the exercises in the pamphlet entitled How to Protect Your Children From Child Abuse: A Parent’s Guide.
  1. Watch the Protect Yourself Rules video for 5th Grade, Arrow of Light OR Earn the Protect Yourself Rules for Arrow of Light.

Welcome to Scouts BSA!

For over 100 years, our program has helped create generations of leaders and outstanding citizens by allowing boys and girls to explore their interests, serve their communities, and discover their talents through youth-led activities like hiking, camping, and volunteering!

Scouts BSA is the traditional Scouting program for boys and girls aged 11-17 years old. It is one of the oldest youth organizations in the United States, where young people can participate in various outdoor activities like camping, hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, and much more! At Scouts BSA, we aim to teach young people:

  • Character development
  • Citizenship training
  • Leadership
  • Mental and physical fitness
 
 

What Do Scouts Do?

Scouts do many activities, including but not limited to:

  • Camping
  • Hiking
  • Exploring hobbies
  • Backpacking
  • Canoeing
  • Exploring potential careers
  • Outdoor cooking
  • Mountain biking
  • Community Service Projects
  • Kayaking
  • Rank advancement

Scouts in the Scouting program also participate in organized events like summer camp, community service projects, and National Scout Jamborees. Scouting encourages young people to try new things, serve others in their communities, and tackle any challenge they might face in their lives with full hearts and clear minds.

Joining Scouts BSA is an excellent way for young people to get excited about the great outdoors. Scouting is where boys and girls ages 11 through 17 develop leadership skills, a passion for service, and experience personal growth while participating in fun challenges and adventures with other Scouts.

Quick references and complete courses designed to help youth members improve leadership skills and deliver a quality program. 

This workbook includes valuable information that can help ensure your success. 

These informational resources are provided to assist you in your role as a troop member.

 

As a universal symbol of scouting, the Official BSA Uniform is known for lasting through countless adventures and bringing Scouts together with a common thread.

 

Dozens of universities, BSA local councils, and religious, civic, and military organizations offer college scholarships to Scouts. 

 

The authoritative source on advancement policies and procedures and best practices.

 

Program Features consists of 48 themed modules to help make program planning easier for troop leaders. 

 

Designed to serve as a planning tool for troop leaders. Its aim is to provide resources that contribute to making parts of the troop meeting more meaningful, engaging, and fun.

 

Useful information and practical ideas to help make it easier for youth and adult troop leaders to present Scout meetings that are fun with positive outcomes.

 

A one-stop set of tools to help adult and youth leaders envision, plan, prepare, and conduct safe, exciting, and successful outdoor adventures.

 

There are a variety of outdoor opportunities available for older Scouts (those who are at least 13 years old or have completed the seventh grade).

 

Enhances leadership skills and expands upon the team-building and ethical decision-making skills learned in NYLT. NAYLE is offered at all four BSA High Adventure Bases

 

An exciting, action-packed program designed for councils to provide youth members with leadership skills and experience they can use in their home troops and in other situations demanding leadership of self and others.

 

More than 180,000 members strong, the Order of the Arrow recognizes Scouts and Scouters who best exemplify the Scout Oath and Law in their daily lives.

 

NESA is a fellowship of Scouts who have achieved the Eagle Scout rank and who desire to use their efforts and influence toward forming the kind of youth America needs for leadership. 

 

Detailed information to enable our members to wear the correct complete uniform on all suitable occasions.

 

Chaplain aide is an approved youth leadership position for Scouts. The responsibilities are to encourage spiritual awareness and growth in the lives of troop members and to assist the chaplain.

 

The official store for the Boy Scouts of America – offering outdoor gear, Scout uniforms, camping supplies, and Scouting expertise.

 

Young leaders from the Boy Scouts of America have the opportunity to learn more about Scouting in Europe by working at a European Scout center.

 

Personal Safety Awareness videos may be used in place of the Cyber Chip requirements for the Scout and Star rank.

 

Scouting is a program for anyone active in the life of a Scout. We recognize that who plays a parental role can vary from family to family. Scouts BSA works to ensure that parents and other individuals who play a parental role in a Scout’s life can impact and participate in Scouting.

How Scouts BSA Differs from Cub Scouts

Scouts BSA is a youth-led program. If you are a parent or guardian who would like to be present during a Troop meeting, please consult with the Scoutmaster in advance so they can arrange for you to observe. If you are a parent or guardian who would like to get involved with Scouts BSA, check if there is a provision to register for a position on the Troop Committee or as an assistant Scoutmaster.

Scouts BSA vs. Cub Scouts

The goal of the Cub Scout program is to provide ready-made opportunities for families to enjoy fun activities together. The Scouts BSA program aims to help young people develop self-confidence and leadership skills by tasking them with the responsibilities of planning and carrying out activities and generating achievements. An adult leader should not aim to get things done but should work to create a safe and healthy environment with the training and resources Scouts need to have a successful Scouting experience!

Opportunities for Parents

Scouts BSA has many opportunities for parents to be leaders with their Scout’s chosen Troop! Options also exist for adults who wish to volunteer as activity merit badge counselors, camp staff, instructors, or office assistants with Scouting Units, Districts, and Councils. Training classes that provide adults with leadership skills and techniques to further their careers are also available.

Parent and Adult Roles in a Scouts BSA Troop

Scouting is where adults make profound differences in young people’s lives. Parents and adult leaders within our youth organization must understand that their role is to create a safe environment where young people can grow, explore, learn to fail, get up, and try again! Whether volunteering as Scoutmasters or merit badge counselors, adults should be willing to listen to Scouts, encourage them, and display a sincere interest in their well-being.

Please Note: All adult leaders must be at least 21 years of age and be approved by the Troop Committee.

Here are some examples of the various roles a parent or adult can take within a BSA Scout Troop:

Scoutmaster – The Scoutmaster (SM) works directly with the Scouts and provides them with direction, coaching, and support.

The Scoutmaster has three basic roles:

  1. Providing youth leaders with all the tools and necessary skills to run the Troop.
  2. Ensuring the rules of the BSA and chartered partner are followed.
  3. Serving as a positive role model and mentor.

Assistant Scoutmaster – The Assistant Scoutmaster is an adult leader over the age of 18 who helps the Scoutmaster deliver the promise of Scouting. The following are some of the specific duties of an Assistant Scoutmaster within the Scouts BSA program:

  • Guiding patrols.
  • Advising Scouts who have assumed positions, e.g., Quartermaster, OA Representative, Chaplain’s Aide.
  • Filling in when necessary to ensure youth leaders have what they need to run the Troop.

Assistant Scoutmasters also complete the “two-deep leadership” requirement by the Boy Scouts of America for all trips or outings. An Assistant Scoutmaster can be 18 years old but must be 21 or older to serve in the Scoutmaster’s absence.

Committee Chair – The chartered organization appoints the Troop Committee Chair to see that all committee functions are carried out. The Troop Committee Chairman appoints and supervises the unit committee and unit leaders and organizes the committee to see that all committee responsibilities are delegated, coordinated, and completed.

Committee Member – The troop committee is a cross between a board of directors and a parent support group. It sets troop policies and handles administrative functions, allowing the Scoutmaster and assistant Scoutmasters to focus on working directly with the Scouts.

Chartered Organization Representative – The Chartered Organization Representative (COR) is the direct contact between the unit and the Chartered Organization. The Chartered Organization Representative appoints the Unit Committee Chairman. This individual is also the organization’s contact with the District Committee and the Local Council.

Advancement and Awards

Scouting provides a series of surmountable obstacles and steps in overcoming them through the advancement method. Scouts plan their own advancement and progress at their own pace as they meet each challenge. Scouts are recognized and rewarded for each achievement, which helps them gain self-confidence. The steps in the advancement system help a Scout grow in self-reliance and in the ability to help others.

Advancement is the process by which youth members of the Boy Scouts of America progress from rank to rank and is the method by which we promote and encourage the ongoing involvement and commitment that keeps members coming back for more. It works best when it is built into a unit’s program so that simply participating leads to meaningful achievement and recognition—and to a continually improving readiness for more complex experiences.

It Is a Method—Not an End in Itself

Advancement is simply a means to an end, not an end in itself. It is one of several methods designed to help unit leadership carry out the aims and mission of the Boy Scouts of America.

Advancement Is Based on Experiential Learning

Everything done to advance—to earn ranks and other awards and recognition—is designed to educate or to otherwise expand horizons. Members learn and develop according to a standard. This is the case from the time a member joins and then moves through the programs of Cub Scouting, Scouts BSA, and Venturing or Sea Scouts.

Experiential learning is the key: Exciting and meaningful activities are offered, and education happens. Learning comes from doing. For example, youth may read about first aid, hear it discussed, and watch others administer it, but they will not learn it until they practice it. Rushing a Scout through requirements to obtain a badge is not the goal. Advancement should be a natural outcome of a well-rounded unit program, rich in opportunities to work toward the ranks.

It is important to note, as with any educational opportunity, a rank or award is not the end of the learning process. In Scouting, after a requirement has been passed, the Scout is placed in practical situations that build retention through repeated use of skills. For example, a Scout plays games that feature the skills, teaches other Scouts, and perhaps practices the skills in “real-life” outdoor experiences. A well-rounded and strong unit program takes advantage of these kinds of opportunities, using them to improve retention through practical application.

Personal Growth Is the Primary Goal

Scouting skills—what a young person learns to do—are important, but not as important as the primary goal of personal growth achieved through participating in a unit program. The concern is for total, well-rounded development. Age-appropriate surmountable hurdles are placed before members, and as they face these challenges they learn about themselves and gain confidence.

Learning Scout skills and concepts through active participation is a vehicle for personal growth, but it is not the primary goal. For example, learning how to tie a knot, plan a menu, swim, or administer first aid may turn out to be critical in one’s life, but they are secondary to the goal of personal growth that comes with learning. As Scouts learn skills and are tested on them, and then reviewed and recognized, they develop confidence. They come to realize they can learn and do other similar things. The retention of Scouting skills and knowledge is important, of course; but for retention to take place, it will be because Scouting skills and knowledge are used in our programs.

Success is achieved when we fulfill the BSA Mission Statement and when we accomplish the aims of Scouting: character development, citizenship training, leadership, and mental and physical fitness. We know we are on the right track when we see youth accepting responsibility, demonstrating self-reliance, and caring for themselves and others; when they learn to weave Scouting ideals into their lives; and when we can see they will be positive contributors to our American society.

Advancement Requires Mentorship

Though certainly goal-oriented, advancement is not a competition. Rather, it is a joint effort involving the adult leaders, the youth members, other volunteers such as merit badge counselors or Venturing consultants, and the family. Though much is done individually at their own pace, youth often work together in groups to focus on advancement at Cub Scout den meetings, for example, or participate in a Scouts BSA camp out or Sea Scout cruise. As they do this, we must recognize each young person’s unique combination of strengths and weaknesses. As watchful leaders, either adult or youth, we lend assistance as called for and encourage members to help each other according to their abilities.

From Cub Scouting through Venturing and Sea Scouts, we put the methods to work. Together they lead to mission fulfillment. For example, the methods of the Scouts BSA program are Scouting ideals, the patrol method, advancement, adult association, outdoor program, the uniform, personal growth and leadership development. Scouting ideals, put forth in the timeless instruments of the Scout Oath and Scout Law, represent the most basic method. Moving on, we know young people want to belong to groups. Throughout the Scouting program, we provide a place where the sense of belonging is an outcome of practicing skills, exploring interests, learning values, forming friendships, and enjoying adventure. Associations within families and with a variety of adults are critical too, especially in terms of providing support and recognition and in developing mutual respect.

Policy on Unauthorized Changes to Advancement Program

No council, committee, district, unit, or individual has the authority to add to, or subtract from, advancement requirements. There are limited exceptions relating only to members with special needs.

There are mandated procedures with words such as “must” and “shall.” Where such language is used, no council, committee, district, unit, or individual has the authority to deviate from the procedures covered, without the written permission of the National Advancement Program Team.

Recommended best practices are offered using words like “should,” while other options and guidelines are indicated with terms such as “may” or “can.” Refer questions on these to your local district or council advancement chairs or staff advisers. They, in turn, may request interpretations and assistance from the National Advancement Program Team.

Advancement Resources provide additional information about advancement. Links are provided to materials that are available online.

Awards Central is where the most up-to-date information about BSA-related awards may be found, including award applications and nomination forms.

Updated 2022

Beginning August 1, 2022, minor modifications to the Scouts BSA requirements for the ranks of Scout through Life will take effect. Scouts may continue using the existing requirements for the rank on which they are currently working, or they may choose to use the new requirements. Scouts must use the new requirements once they advance to their next rank. In addition, beginning July 1, 2022, the Citizenship in Society merit badge becomes required for the rank of Eagle.

On January 1, 2023, all Scouts must use only the new requirements.

General Questions

What is the age range for joining Scouts BSA?

Youth can join a Scout troop who have earned the Arrow of Light rank and are at least 10 years old, or have completed the fifth grade and are at least 10, or who are 11, but not yet 18 years old.

What is the responsibility of a parent of a new Scout?

Scouts BSA patrol and troop meetings are intended to be an activity for youth. They are not a family activity, and the presence of parents can be a distraction. However, parental involvement is not forbidden. If a parent or guardian would like to be present during a troop meeting, they should consult with the Scoutmaster in advance so a way can be arranged for them to observe. There also might be provision for them to register for a position on the troop committee or as an assistant Scoutmaster. There are always ways for your parent or guardian to be involved.

How do adults get involved?

All troops are chartered to a local organization. The chartered organization serves as a sponsor of Scouting and is essentially the owner/operator of the Scouting unit. In this role, the head of the organization approves all adult volunteer leaders. All leaders are required to take our child safety course called “Youth Protection,” and specific training for their role in Scouting is available either online or in a classroom setting. To help the organization maintain a quality program, there is a person assigned to be a liaison between the unit and the chartered organization. In addition, every unit has a committee (typically made up of Scouting parents) that oversees proper operation and ensures a safe and fun program.

What supplies and equipment does a Scout need?

The single most important piece of equipment a Scout needs is the Scout Handbook. A local Scout shop is the best place to buy a handbook, and the staff there can guide you to get exactly what you need. Find your local Scout shop.

The uniform is also very important as it plays an essential role in creating a sense of belonging, and it’s where a Scout gets to display his awards and rank achievements. Check out the interactive uniform builder. Uniforms can be ordered online or in person at the local Scout shop.

Additional supplies and equipment may be needed for certain activities such as camping trips or field days. What equipment is needed, as well as whether it will be provided by the troop, will vary. Unit leaders will provide information about any required supplies at the beginning of each program year.

How much does it cost to be a Scout?

The annual registration fee is $75. However, most units will require additional fees to cover the cost of certain activities and program supplies. The Scoutmaster can explain all the details about the unit’s annual fee and exactly what it includes.

Is Scouting safe?

Yes. Programs are designed to follow a strict set of rules and policies that can be found in the Guide to Safe Scouting. Every registered adult in Scouting is required to complete a Youth Protection training course and a criminal background check. For more information, visit the Youth Protection page.

Who should be contacted if help is needed?

A Scout’s patrol leader is the first resource if there are any questions. The senior patrol leader is the next source of information, and then finally the Scoutmaster.

General Questions Regarding Troop Operations

How often does a troop meet?

Scouts meet once each week at their troop meeting. Beyond that, it depends on the patrol and troop. A troop may hold a special activity, such as a service project or outdoor experience, in place of one of the weekly meetings or in addition to the weekly meetings.

What is a patrol?

A Scout patrol is a small team of normally six to eight Scouts where patrol members learn skills together, share responsibilities and take on leadership roles. For more information, visit the Patrol Leader page.

Who runs the troop?

The senior patrol leader who is elected by the Scouts. For more information, visit Troop Leader Resources.

Who plans the meetings and activities?

The Patrol Leaders’ Council made up of the senior patrol leader, who presides over the meetings, the assistant senior patrol leader, all patrol leaders, and the troop guide.

The BSA’s Commitment to Safety

In Scouting, we will not compromise the safety of our youth, volunteers, and employees. Safety is a value that must be taught and reinforced at every opportunity. We are all responsible and must hold each other accountable to provide a safe environment for all participants. We are committed to abuse prevention by utilizing:

  • Mandatory youth protection training.
  • Criminal background checks.
  • Banning one-on-one adult and youth interactions.
  • Mandatory reporting of suspected abuse to law enforcement.
  • A volunteer screening database.

We are committed to injury and illness prevention by integrating safety measures in our handbooks, literature, and training materials, including the Guide to Safe Scouting. We expect leaders to use the four points of SAFE when delivering the program. SAFE Scouting measures include:

  • Youth are Supervised by qualified and trustworthy adults who set the example for safety.
  • Activities are Assessed for risks.
  • Pre-requisite Fitness and Skill levels are confirmed before participation.
  • Appropriate Equipment is utilized, and Environmental conditions are monitored.

When incidents do occur, we expect a timely, clear, and complete incident report. We are committed to learning from the data and modifying program guidance for the prevention of future occurrences.

Download PDF

SUMMARY

The BSA has adopted the following policies for the safety and well-being of its members. These policies primarily protect youth members; however, they also serve to protect adult leaders. Registered leaders must follow these guidelines with Scouting youth outside of Scouting activities.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Registration Requirements

  • The chartered organization representative, or in their absence the executive officer of the chartered organization, must approve the registration of all unit’s adult leaders. Scouting uses a Volunteer Screening Database which prohibits known or suspected abusers from registering. Additionally, youth protection training and criminal background checks are mandatory for all registered volunteers and staff.

Adult Supervision

  • One-on-one contact between adult leaders and youth members is prohibited both inside and outside of Scouting, either in person, online, over the phone, or via text. Two-deep adult supervision by registered adult leaders 21 years of age or over are required for all Scouting activities. This includes patrol activities, meetings, and service projects. These enhanced requirements have been in effect since 2018.

Responsibility

  • Adult leaders and youth members share the responsibility for the safety of all participants in the program, including adherence to Youth Protection and health and safety policies. In addition, adult leaders are required to adhere to the Scouter Code of Conduct.

Accommodations

  • Separate accommodations for adult males and females and youth males and females are required for tenting, lodging, and restroom facilities. Youth sharing tents must be no more than two years apart in age. In addition, Adult participants age 18-20 are treated as adults and cannot share tents with youth participants.

Program Requirements

  • Adult leaders emphasize the buddy system in unit planning, and training activities. Buddies must stay together during activities. Scouting is a transparent program with parental involvement.

Reporting Requirements

  • Adult leaders and youth members have a responsibility to recognize, respond to, and report All Youth Protection violations and abuse including, mandatory reporting to law enforcement.

RESOURCES

All participants in official Scouting activities should become familiar with the Guide to Safe Scouting and applicable program literature or manuals, and be aware of state or local government regulations that supersede Boy Scouts of America practices, policies, and guidelines. The Guide to Safe Scouting is an overview of Scouting policies and procedures gleaned from a variety of sources. For some items, the policy statements are complete. Unit leaders are expected to review the additional reference material cited prior to conducting such activities.

In situations not specifically covered in this guide, activity planners should evaluate the risk or potential risk of harm, and respond with action plans based on common sense, community standards, the Scout motto, and safety policies and practices commonly prescribed for the activity by experienced providers and practitioners.

Perhaps this quote by Sir Robert Baden-Powell from his 1914 book Quick Training for War is appropriate to include here: “… The books lay down definite principles and examples which serve to guide the leaders when applying their common sense to the situation before them. No two situations are ever precisely the same, and it is therefore impossible to lay down exact rules that should guide in every case, but a man who carries precedents and principles in his head has no difficulty in applying their teaching in supreme moments of sudden emergency …”

Download the print-friendly version here. This is the full PDF version that contains updates as of February 2022.  Please refer to the online version for the most updated information.

Annual Health and Medical Record

The Scouting adventure, camping trips, high-adventure excursions, and having fun are important to everyone in Scouting—and so is your safety and well-being. Completing the Annual Health and Medical Record is the first step in making sure you have a great Scouting experience. So what do you need?

 

All Scouting Events

Applies to ALL participants—in basic Scouting activities such as local tours and weekend camping trips less than 72 hours in duration.

 

 

Are You Going to Camp?

A pre-participation physical is needed:

  • For resident campers. (summer or winter camps)
  • Events 72 hours or more.

Exploring Posts

All Exploring participants (adult and youth)– for any event or activity less than 72 hours in duration.

  • A pre-participation physical is needed for everyone (adult and youth) for any Exploring event or activity 72 hours or more in length.
 

Are You Planning a High-Adventure Trip?

Florida Sea Base. All participants and staff.

  • SCUBA participants ALSO need to download the PADI Medical Statement.
 
 
 

Northern Tier. Includes wilderness canoe treks, OKPIK winter adventures, and staff.

 
 
 

Philmont Scout Ranch. All camping participants and staff.

 

Philmont Training Center. Mountain trek, Trailblazers, Mustangs, NAYLE, NAYLE staff, PLC, and PLC staff.

  • PTC conferences and all other family program groups can use the limited backcountry download.
 
 

Summit Bechtel Reserve. All participants and staff.

 

All Scouting Events

 

Applies to ALL participants—in basic Scouting activities such as local tours and weekend camping trips less than 72 hours in duration.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Are You Going to Camp?

 

A pre-participation physical is needed

  • For resident campers (summer or winter camps)
  • Events 72 hours or more.

Exploring Posts

 

 

 

 

A pre-participation physical is needed for everyone (adult and youth) for any Exploring event or activity 72 hours or more in length.

 

 

First Aid Kits

SUMMARY

All Scouts and Scout leaders—as representatives of an organization whose motto is “Be Prepared”—should be sure they are always ready with an appropriate first-aid kit when it’s needed. Your kit may be simple, or more complex if you are trained to use it properly. But the kit must always be on hand and stocked with every essential item.

GENERAL INFORMATION

First-aid kits should be present wherever you might need them. That likely includes having a kit in your car, your home, your meeting location, and with your outdoor equipment for the next hike or camping trip. Since a first-aid kit is one of the essential items for Scout hiking, keeping one with your daypack is an easy way to assure you are prepared on the trail.

The contents of the kit can be as varied as the potential needs and the number of participants present, but it must always be stocked and ready for use. You should also regularly check for and replace expired items and those that need to be restocked after a trip. Have a kit that is suited to the number of participants and the length of time you’ll need it. A kit for a day hike will probably be different from the kit you would carry on a trek at Philmont Scout Ranch or a multiday boat trip at the Florida Sea Base or Northern Tier. If you’re a medical professional or trained in Wilderness First Aid, the kit may be expanded because of your knowledge and ability to safely use the items.

Not sure about what to buy and where to get it? A number of professionally prepared first-aid kits are available from ScoutStuff.org and your local Scout shop, major outdoor retailers, and the American Red Cross. Specifications are often provided as to locations where the kit might be appropriate and other considerations.

You may want to add items based on known or anticipated needs. For example, a shakedown hike with many pairs of new boots being broken in would warrant additional moleskin. Even if you want to assemble your own kit, you can use the resource list below to identify contents that are recommended.

RESOURCES

Scouts and their parents expect all Boy Scouts of America activities to be conducted safely. To ensure the safety of participants, the Boy Scouts of America expects leaders to use the four points of SAFE when delivering the Scouting program.

  • Accepting responsibility for the well-being and safety of youth under their care.
  • Ensuring that adults are adequately trained, experienced, and skilled to lead the activity, including the ability to prevent and respond to likely problems and
    potential emergencies.
  • Knowing and delivering the program of the Boy Scouts of America with integrity.
  • Using qualified instructors, guides, or safety personnel as needed to provide additional guidance.
  • Maintaining engagement with participants during activities to ensure compliance with established rules and procedures.
  • Predetermining what guidance and standards are typically applied to the activity, including those specific to the Boy Scouts of America program.
  • Planning for safe travel to and from the activity site.
  • Validating the activity is age appropriate for the Boy Scouts of America program level.
  • Determining whether the unit has sufficient training, resources, and experience to meet the identified standards, and if not, modifying the activity accordingly.
  • Developing contingency plans for changes in weather and environment and arranging for communication with participants, parents, and emergency services.
  • Confirming the activity is right for the age, maturity, and physical abilities of participants.
  • Considering as risk factors temporary or chronic health conditions of participants.
  • Validating minimum skill requirements identified during planning and ensuring participants stay within the limits of their abilities.
  • Providing training to participants with limited skills and assessing their skills before they attempt more advanced skills.
  • Confirming participants’ clothing is appropriate for expected temperatures, sun exposure, weather events, and terrain.
  • Providing equipment that is appropriately sized for participants, is in good repair, and is used properly.
  • Ensuring personal and group safety equipment is available, properly fitted, and used consistently and in accordance with training.
  • Reviewing the activity area for suitability during planning and immediately before use, and monitoring the area during the activity through supervision.
  • Adjusting the activity for changing conditions or ending it if safety cannot be maintained.

Incident Reporting

An incident has occurred:
1. Take care of the injured/find a safe place.
2. Preserve and document the evidence/take photos if appropriate.
3. Complete an incident report and notify your local council.
Timely, clear, concise, and complete incident reports allow for an appropriate response and an opportunity for analysis while promoting continuous improvement of our programs. You can report incidents, near misses, and youth protection / membership infraction incidents to your local council or enter them yourself.
 

So, how do I report an incident?

 
• Gather the facts using the tools below.

Incident Information Reporting Tool

Use this tool to report all injuries, illnesses, and incidents during Scouting activities or on council-owned properties that require the intervention of a medical provider beyond basic Scout-rendered first aid.

Youth Protection/Membership Infraction Information Reporting Tool

Use this tool to report all allegations of abuse, violations of BSA guidelines or policies, inappropriate behavior by a Scout/Scout leader/parent/other.

Near Miss Incident Information Reporting Tool

Use this tool to report near misses in programs such as COPE and climbing activities. A near miss is an incident that did not result in injury, illness, or damage by definition but that had the potential to have done so.  Near misses with clear  lessons learned can bring to light opportunities to improve safety performance or program practices. 

Then

  • Report the incident to the council.
OR
  • In an emergency if timely council contact cannot be made, you can also enter an incident yourself by following this link.

Incident Reporting

Near Miss Video

*Or if you are entering a Youth Protection/Membership Infraction report, follow the same steps as in the incident reporting video above and select “Membership Infraction” after you leave the welcome screen.

Crisis Communications Support:

Even though a crisis may be local, the impact to your council and the organization can be impactful and far-reaching. That’s why it is important to immediately engage the BSA’s Crisis Communications support team by emailing PR@scouting.org as soon as you become aware of a situation, even if media is not yet involved. The team will respond quickly to support you with the needed communications so that you can focus on the incident at hand. Important note: Contacting the crisis team alone does not qualify as filing an incident report.

Occupational Injury Reporting:

All employers are required to notify OSHA when an employee is killed on the job or suffers a work-related hospitalization, amputation, or the loss of an eye. An in-patient hospitalization, amputation, or eye loss must be reported within 24 hours.

*All fatalities must be reported within eight hours.

To Make a Report

  • Call the nearest OSHA office.
  • Call the OSHA 24-hour hotline at 1-800-321-6742 (OSHA).
  • Report

Be prepared to supply the following: the business name; names of employees affected; the location and time of the incident, a brief description of the incident; and the name and phone number of the contact person.

US Coast Guard Required Reporting:

Federal law requires the operator or owner of a recreational vessel to file a boating accident report with the State reporting authority if the recreational vessel is involved in an accident that results in any of the following:
  • A person dies
  • A person is injured and requires medical treatment beyond “Scout rendered first aid.”
  • A person disappears from the vessel under circumstances that indicate death or injury
  • Damage to vessels and other property totals $2,000 (lower amounts in some states and territories).
  • The boat is destroyed.

This requirement is the same regardless of vessel makeup: sail, canoe, paddleboard, kayak, and powerboat.

For information on how to file this federally required accident report, click here

 

This accident report must be filed in addition to the required BSA incident report forms.

Structure of Scouting

The structure and organization of Scouting can get confusing. Here’s a simple explanation.

The BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA is the national umbrella organization. 

Under that, there are more than 200 LOCAL COUNCILS, including the Baltimore Area Council. 

Within each council there are several DISTRICTS. The Baltimore Area Council has 7 of them.

Within each of the districts are numerous individual UNITS. Each unit is operated by a “chartered organization” — a community organization, school, or religious institution. For example, your local church might choose to establish a Cub Scout Pack and a Scouts BSA Troop.

Cub Scouts units are called Packs. Each Pack is divided into smaller units called Dens. Each Den is made of six to eight boys of the same age and rank. In other words, in a single Den, all the Cub Scouts will be Tigers, for example, or Bears or Webelos. The uniformed adult leader of a Cub Scout Pack is called the Cubmaster, while Den Leaders are responsible for individual Dens.

Scouts BSA units are called Troops. Troops vary widely in size, from less than 10 members, to as many as 100 or so. Troops are made of Patrols, which are tight-knit team of five to eight members. The uniformed adult leader of a Scouts BSA Troop is called a Scoutmaster. Patrols are led by Scouts who are elected by the members of the Patrol.

Venturing units are called Crews and are not subdivided into smaller parts.

Cubmaster

Your time volunteering in Cub Scouting will be rewarding and fun, and the information here will help you get off to the right start.

The pack meeting brings all of the dens in the pack together for the purposes of recognizing the achievements of the Cub Scouts, communicating information about upcoming events, and providing a program that enriches the Cub Scouting experience.  It helps the Cubs realize their den is part of a larger organization.  A good pack meeting is well planned and well organized.  Packs meet several times during the year – there is no required number.  Some packs meet monthly, others less often.

Literature

Welcome New Cubmaster – This brochure is designed to help new Cubmasters understand their role in the Pack.

Welcome New CS Family – This brochure is designed to help new families understand the basics of Cub Scouting when they first join.

Cub Scout Leader Book – This book provides details on how to organize and deliver the Cub Scout program.  Updated in 2023.  

Guide to Safe Scouting – All participants in official Scouting activities should become familiar with the Guide to Safe Scouting, applicable program literature or manuals, and be aware of state or local government regulations that supersede Boy Scouts of America practices, policies, and guidelines. The Guide to Safe Scouting is an overview of Scouting policies and procedures gleaned from a variety of sources. For some items, the policy statements are complete. Unit leaders are expected to review the additional reference material cited prior to conducting such activities.

Digital Tools

Scoutbook

Once you are a registered as a Cubmaster Scoutbook is your online resource to assist you with managing the Pack.  Calendars, tracking and reporting awards, and communication with parents.  

Scoutbook now features special Den Leader experience that helps  den leaders plan and prepare for den meetings.  Details on what to do before, during, and after meeting along with the resources needed to deliver the program right at their fingertips. 

Scoutbook is free for everyone registered in Scouting.  Once you are registered, you or another leader can set up who is in your den and off you go!

Scouting App

The Scouting App provides parents the ability to see how their child is progressing, get notifications about meetings, and inform Den Leaders when a Cub Scout has completed a requirement at home.

Make sure all your parents download the Scouting App for free onto their mobile device.

 

Scouting Magazine App

The digital magazine Scouting is provided free to all registered adult leaders, parents and any other interested adults. It contains articles not only about Scouting but also about youth development and parenting.

Download on the App Store or Google Play.

Scouting magazine’s website is chock full of information and resources for leaders and parents.

Cub Chat Live Logo

Cub Chat Live!

Cub Chat Live is a Facebook Live event that happens every Friday at 2 p.m. Central.  Hosted by Scouting Magazine this weekly show features the National Director of Cub Scouting and/or the National Chair of Cub Scouting addressing Cub Scout program questions.

All episodes are recorded and can be watched on the Scouting Magazine Facebook page.  Cub Chat Live!

 

More Resources

Free Online Resources

Family Talent Survey – One of the first things to have parents in your den complete is this survey to help you identify parents who have resources.

Den Records – If not using ScoutBook, because of no access to the internet, use this manual record sheet to track the attendance and accomplishments of the members of your den.

Lion Den Record 

Tiger Den Record 

Wolf Den Record 

Bear Den Record 

Webelos Den Record

Advancement Reports – If not using ScoutBook because of no access to the internet, use this manual report to submit to your Pack so recognition items can be purchased.

Lion Den Advancement Report

Tiger Den Advancement Report 

Wolf Den Advancement Report 

Bear Den Advancement Report 

Webelos Den Advancement Report 

Uniform Inspection Sheets – Use this as the guide for wearing the Cub Scout uniform properly.  There is not an inspection sheet for Lions.

Tiger / Wolf / Bear Uniform Inspection Sheet 

Webelos Uniform Inspection Sheet

Attendance and Dues – This form is available if you are tracking attendance and den dues manually.

Activity Consent Form – The recommended use of this form is for the consent and approval for Cub Scouts to participate in any activity that is not at your regular den meeting location.

Resources Available for Purchase

Den Code of Conduct Poster Set – This set includes a poster to create your Den Code of Conduct, and a posters of the Scout Oath and Scout Law.

Rank Pocket Certificates – Used to recognize Cub Scouts when they complete their badge of rank.  Most packs provide this at Pack Meetings.

Lion Rank Pocket Certificate  

Tiger Rank Pocket Certificate 

Wolf Rank Pocket Certificate   

Bear Rank Pocket Certificate   

Webelos Rank Pocket Certificate   

Arrow of Light Pocket Certificate 

Adventure Pocket Certificate– Used to recognize Cub Scouts when they complete an adventure, used for all ranks.  Most packs provide this at Pack Meetings. 

Health and Safety

Incident Reporting – Timely, clear, concise, and complete incident reports allow for an appropriate response and an opportunity for analysis while promoting continuous improvement of our programs. You can report incidents, near misses, and youth protection / membership infraction incidents to your local council.

Meeting Place Inspection Sheet – If not already done for your den meeting location, complete this inspection sheet.

Annual Health and Medical Record – Each Cub Scout and adult leader participating in an activity that is not at your regular den meeting location is to complete this medical record.  A copy of the record is to be with the leader of the activity or a designee.

Age Appropriate Guidelines – This chart indicates what activities your Cub Scouts are allowed to participate in.

Cub Scout Awards

Learn about other awards that Cub Scout can earn as they participate in special events or activities.  From environmental awareness to STEM based awards. LEARN MORE ABOUT CUB SCOUT AWARDS

Adult Leader Awards

Recognizing adult leaders in your Pack retains leaders. Making adult leaders aware of awards they can earn helps bring the excitement and fun of Cub Scouting to everyone. LEARN MORE ABOUT ADULT LEADER AWARDS

The Pack Committee supports the den leaders and Cubmaster of the pack so they can focus on working directly with the yout in the pack. A pack committee is an opportunity to involve all parents and adults in the family.

Your time volunteering in Cub Scouting will be rewarding and fun, and the information here will help you get off to the right start.

Welcome New CS Family

This brochure is designed to help new families understand the basics of Cub Scouting when they first join.

The Cub Scout Leader Book provides details on how to organize and deliver the Cub Scout program.  Updated in 2023.  Click here for the free PDF version. 

Guide to Safe Scouting

All participants in official Scouting activities should become familiar with the Guide to Safe Scouting, applicable program literature or manuals, and be aware of state or local government regulations that supersede Boy Scouts of America practices, policies, and guidelines. The Guide to Safe Scouting is an overview of Scouting policies and procedures gleaned from a variety of sources. For some items, the policy statements are complete. Unit leaders are expected to review the additional reference material cited prior to conducting such activities.

View the Guide to Safe Scouting online 

 

Selecting Cub Scout Leaders

Use this to help the Pack Committee and Chartered Organization use a proven technique to identify and recruit leaders for your Pack.

 
 

Digital Tools

Scoutbook

Once you are a registered as a Pack Committee Chair Scoutbook is your online resource to assist you with managing the Pack.  Calendars, tracking and reporting awards, and communication with parents.  

Scoutbook now features special Den Leader experience that helps  den leaders plan and prepare for den meetings.  Details on what to do before, during, and after meeting along with the resources needed to deliver the program right at their fingertips. 

Scoutbook is free for everyone registered in Scouting.  Once you are registered, you or another leader can set up who is in your den and off you go!

Scouting App

The Scouting App provides parents the ability to see how their child is progressing, get notifications about meetings, and inform Den Leaders when a Cub Scout has completed a requirement at home.

Make sure all your parents download the Scouting App for free onto their mobile device.

Scouting Magazine App

The digital magazine Scouting is provided free to all registered adult leaders, parents and any other interested adults. It contains articles not only about Scouting but also about youth development and parenting.

Download on the App Store or Google Play.

Cub Chat Live Logo

Cub Chat Live!

Cub Chat Live is a Facebook Live event that happens every Friday at 2 p.m. Central.  Hosted by Scouting Magazine this weekly show features the National Director of Cub Scouting and/or the National Chair of Cub Scouting addressing Cub Scout program questions.

All episodes are recorded and can be watched on the Scouting Magazine Facebook page.  Cub Chat Live!

 

More Resources

Free On-line Resources

Family Talent Survey – One of the first things to have parents in your den complete is this survey to help you identify parents who have resources.

Cub Scout Resources Sheet – At a glance page of resources to support Cub Scout leaders.  Provides QR codes for quick access to resources. 

Pack Overnighter for New Cub Scouts– This guide walks you through planning a Pack Overnighter for either New Cub Scouts or for the start of a new program year.  Sample schedule includes Adventures to build into the experience. 

Planning Your Annual Pack Budget – A quality program is well planned and well funded.  This worksheet gives step by step instructions on how to properly plan your pack finances for the year.

Pack Budget Worksheet – This worksheet will get you started on developing an annual budget for your Pack.  The excel sheet gives examples of sources of revenue and common expenses for the year. 

Den Records – If not using ScoutBook, because of no access to the internet, use this manual record sheet to track the attendance and accomplishments of the members of your den.

Lion Den Record 

Tiger Den Record  

Wolf Den Record 

Bear Den Record  

Webelos Den Record  

Advancement Reports – If not using ScoutBook because of no access to the internet, use this manual report to submit to your Pack so recognition items can be purchased.

Lion Den Advancement Report

Tiger Den Advancement Report  

Wolf Den Advancement Report  

Bear Den Advancement Report  

Webelos Den Advancement Report 

Uniform Inspection Sheets – Use this as the guide for wearing the Cub Scout uniform properly.  There is not an inspection sheet for Lions.

Tiger / Wolf / Bear Uniform Inspection Sheet 

Webelos Uniform Inspection Sheet 

Attendance and Dues  – This form is available if you are tracking attendance and den dues manually.

Activity Consent Form – The recommended use of this form is for the consent and approval for Cub Scouts to participate in any activity that is not at your regular den meeting location.

Resources Available for Purchase

Den Code of Conduct Poster Set  – This set includes a poster to create your Den Code of Conduct, and a posters of the Scout Oath and Scout Law.

Rank Pocket Certificates – Used to recognize Cub Scouts when they complete their badge of rank.  Most packs provide this at Pack Meetings.

Lion Rank Pocket Certificate  

Tiger Rank Pocket Certificate 

Wolf Rank Pocket Certificate   

Bear Rank Pocket Certificate   

Webelos Rank Pocket Certificate   

Arrow of Light Pocket Certificate Adventure Pocket Certificate – Used to recognize Cub Scouts when they complete an adventure, used for all ranks.  Most packs provide this at Pack Meetings. 

Health and Safety

Incident Reporting – Timely, clear, concise, and complete incident reports allow for an appropriate response and an opportunity for analysis while promoting continuous improvement of our programs. You can report incidents, near misses, and youth protection / membership infraction incidents to your local council.

Meeting Place Inspection Sheet – If not already done for your den meeting location, complete this inspection sheet.

Annual Health and Medical Record – Each Cub Scout and adult leader participating in an activity that is not at your regular den meeting location is to complete this medical record.  A copy of the record is to be with the leader of the activity or a designee.

Age Appropriate Guidelines – This chart indicates what activities your Cub Scouts are allowed to participate in.

Cub Scout Awards

Learn about other awards that Cub Scout can earn as they participate in special events or activities.  From environmental awareness to STEM based awards.

Adult Leader Awards

Recognizing adult leaders in your Pack retains leaders.  Making adult leaders award of awards they can earn helps bring the excitement and fun of Cub Scouting to everyone. 

The Den Meeting is the most important part of Cub Scouting. It is where Cub Scouts build friendships, work together to learn new things, and progress towards earning their common badge of rank. Serving as a Den Leader is providing an opportunity to make a positive life long impact on your child and others in the den.

Den Leader Resources

 
Lion Resources
Kindergarten
Cub Scouts who join in 1st through 5th grade earn the Bobcat Badge first
Tiger Resources
1st Grade
Wolf Resources
2nd Grade
Bear Resources
3rd Grade
Webelos Resources
4th and 5th Grade
 

Resources

Scout Life 

Scout Life first cover

Scout Life is one of the top youth magazines in the country, and its website is packed with fun and resources for youth, leaders and parents.

Scout Life is only $15 a year for Scouts, an amazing value with great benefits.

Subscribe to Scout Life

Scouting Magazine App

Scouting Magazine App

The digital magazine Scouting is provided free to all registered adult leaders, parents and any other interested adults. It contains articles not only about Scouting but also about youth development and parenting.

Download on the App Store or Google Play.

Scouting magazine’s website is chock full of information and resources for leaders and parents.

Cub Chat Live! by Scouting magazine

Cub Chat Live Logo

Cub Chat Live is a Facebook Live event that happens every Friday at 2 p.m. Central.  Hosted by Scouting magazine this weekly show features the National Director of Cub Scouting and/or the National Chair of Cub Scouting addressing Cub Scout program questions.

All episodes are recorded and can be watched on the Scouting magazine Facebook page.  Cub Chat Live!

Den Leader Tips and Tricks Videos

 

Tips and tricks videos for Den Leaders, locally created content to help inspire, including resources in Spanish, and hack videos for ScoutBook’s Den Leader Experience.  A growing number of videos to help support Den Leaders. 

Den Leader Tips and Tricks Videos

 

Youth Leadership

DEN CHIEF

Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Den Leaders may ask a scout in a local Scouts BSA Troop, Venturing Crew, or Sea Scout Ship to serve as a Den Chief.  This youth leadership position is designed to assist the Den Leader with simple tasks such as gathering Cub Scouts for a game or assisting Cub Scouts with a craft or activity. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DEN CHIEF.

DENNER

Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Den Leaders select a Scout to serve as a denner on a rotational basis so each Scout gets the opportunity to serve at least once.  The responsibilities of the denner should be simple and appropriate for the age of the Cub Scout.  This may be the honor of holding the U.S. flag during the opening ceremony or leading the pledge of allegiance.

The denner is identified by wearing a yellow cord on the left shoulder.

This section provides a variety of materials, from quick references to complete courses, all designed to help our members improve leadership skills and deliver a quality program.

Joining Courses

These courses are required to become registered leaders and must be retaken every two years to maintain registration. A login is required, but anyone may create a user account and view the courses. Registered members of the BSA may provide their member numbers (as part of the user profile) to receive credit.

Boy Scouts of America IconCub Scouts IconBoy Scouts IconVenturing Icon Sea Scout IconYouth Protection Training

Once facilitators have been tasked with delivering the adult Youth Protection training, they should contact their Council Scout Executive for access to the materials. Access to the materials should not be shared with anyone else.

The materials are available in English and Spanish and are packaged as a zipped file that contains facilitator’s guides and PowerPoint slide decks for each of the mandatory and recommended Youth Protection training modules, copies of the video files embedded in the PowerPoint slide decks, a copy of the end-of-course test for the current year, and a sample training attendance report.

All other versions of Facilitator Led Training are superseded by the materials available through your Scout Executive.

Cub Scouts Icon Boy Scouts Icon Venturing Icon Sea Scout IconYouth Protection Pledge Cards

Take the pledge to keep our Scouts safe by following the BSA’s Youth Protection policies. Half the pledge is signed and given to the council; the other half stays with you in pocket card format as a reminder. The links below, in English and Spanish versions, will print four-up on a sheet.

Orientation Courses

Orientation courses are designed to help Scouters learn more about their Scouting role and about other leadership positions in the program.

Position-Specific (Role-Based) Courses

These instructor-led courses are designed to help Scouters learn how to effectively carry out their Scouting roles. In most cases, completing the course will make a Scouter “trained” for the role(s) covered in the course. E-learning versions of some courses may be found below in the E-learning section.

Boy Scouts of America Icon Cub Scouts Icon Boy Scouts Icon Venturing Icon Sea Scout IconBasic Leader Requirements

Need to know what are the requirements to be trained for your unit leadership role? This sheet explains the training requirements for all unit-level leaders.

Cub Scouts IconCub Scout Position-Specific Training

The link below is to the syllabus that is to be used by trainers in presenting a group and/or the stand-alone position-specific course. This course is intended to provide the following positions with the information and tools they need to conduct a successful Program:

  • Lion, Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Den Leaders
  • Cubmasters and Assistant Cubmasters
  • Pack Committee and Committee Chair

Leaders who complete the training are considered trained for their position.

Instructor Syllabus (updated 8/9/23)

Supplemental Training Courses

These courses are designed to help Scouters with a particular skill or to enhance their Scouting role. Additional modules may be found on the “Supplemental” link in the upper-left section of this page.

Boy Scouts of America Icon Cub Scouts IconCub Chat Live! and Troop Talk Live!

Cub Chat Live! is a weekly Facebook live event every Friday at 2 p.m. central.  To watch the episode live and ask questions simply go to the Scouting Magazine Facebook page on Friday at 2 p.m. and the show will be in the feed.  If you can not watch it live, all shows are recorded and posted here: Cub Chat Live!

TroopTalk Live! is a monthly Facebook live event the second Wednesday of the month at 2 p.m. central.  To watch the episode live and ask questions simply go to the Scouting Magzine Facebook page on the second Wednesday of the month at 2 p.m. central and the show will be in the feed.  If you can not watch it live, all shows are recorded and posted here: Troop Talk Live!

Outdoor Skills Training Courses

These courses are designed to help Scouters with skills related to the BSA’s outdoor program.

Cub Scouts IconBasic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO)

This one-and-a-half day course is designed as an introduction to the Cub Scout outdoor program for leaders interested in adding a camping component to their Pack activities. BALOO training consists of an online pre-requisite component in addition to an overnight hands on practical. BSA’s Cub Scout level camping policies will be taught along with the discovery of the necessary tools to help units carry our a successful camping experience. Completion of this course is mandatory for a MINIMUM OF ONE adult on a Pack overnighter.

This course should not be taught with IOLS. As part of a two-part blended learning format, the on-line modules are the first step to become BALOO trained. The on-line training modules contain introductory and basic information that will be built upon during the practical training that is completed during an in-person, council instructed course. The on-line component must be completed prior to the practical component and the course facilitator should check this before allowing enrollment into this part of the course. The in-person syllabus is facilitated by the council training committee and the syllabus must be followed to include the overnight portion of the training. Otherwise the training code will not be awarded.

Instructor Syllabus

The online prerequisite training is available in the BSA Learn Center on My.Scouting.

Cub Scouts Icon Boy Scouts Icon Venturing IconCamp Health Officer Training

This presentation provides a detailed briefing for individuals selected to serve as a camp health officer at a council or district camping facility.

View online

Training Awards

Cub Scouts Icon Boy Scouts IconVenturing Icon Sea Scout IconTraining Awards for Adult Leaders in Units

The training awards and keys are designed to recognize unit Scouters for tenure, training, and performance in their leadership roles. Progress record forms with the 2023 requirements for these awards can be found at the links below.

The purpose of the Guide to Safe Scouting is to prepare adult leaders to conduct Scouting activities in a safe and prudent manner.

Everything you need to know for advancement. Links are provided to materials that are available online.

Trained leaders provide a quality, fun-filled program for crews. When leaders understand Scouting, they are more effective in their roles.

 

Application forms, nomination forms, and more.

 

These helpful resources and reference materials are available to help you support your troop or team.

 

As a universal symbol of scouting, the Official BSA Uniform is known for lasting through countless adventures and bringing Scouts together with a common thread.

 

Resources you need to build, activate, and improve your troop marketing and recruiting strategy. 

 

The transition from a Webelos den to a Scouts BSA troop is an important stage in the Scouting journey. 

 

The unit’s program calendar and budget information can youth and their parents gain a greater understanding of just what fun is waiting for them during the unit’s entire program year.

 

A planning tool for troop leaders with resources that contribute to making parts of the troop meeting more meaningful, engaging, and fun.

 

Useful information and practical ideas to help make it easier for youth and adult troop leaders to present Scout meetings that are fun with positive outcomes.

 

A one-stop set of tools to help adult and youth leaders envision, plan, prepare, and conduct safe, exciting, and successful outdoor adventures

 

Program Features consists of 48 themed modules to help make program planning easier for troop leaders. 

 

Identify the skills and interests of parents so that they can take a more active role in helping Scouts.

 

The news and stories you need as a Scout Leader or parent.

 

Detailed information to enable our members to wear the correct complete uniform on all suitable occasions.

 

The BSA’s online unit management tool to help Scouts, parents, and leaders track advancement and milestone achievements along the Scouting trail.

 

Guidelines and sample questions for conducting a Board of Review.

 

Use these resources to help you manage online registration for your unit or council.

 

The definitive resource on terms and style specific to Scouting and the organization.

 

The basic premise of Scouting for youth with disabilities is that all youth want to participate fully and be respected like every other member of the unit. 

 

The official store for the Boy Scouts of America – offering outdoor gear, Scout uniforms, camping supplies, and Scouting expertise

 

Appreciation for our natural environment and a knowledge of the interrelationships of nature bolster our respect and reverence toward the environment and nature.

 

The member-driven Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics teaches people how to enjoy the outdoors responsibly. 

 

Resources to assist a new Scoutmaster.

 

A simple check-the-box style start-up process for the new Scoutmaster who may be unfamiliar with Scouts BSA.

 

The chaplain can encourage Scouts in their work and other aspects of their total lives, and contribute to their spiritual welfare and growth.

 

Brief presentations to draw new Scout parents into the troop experience.

 

 A one-page, customizable document to be used at parent orientation.

 

Resources to assist the new troop in planning their first month’s meetings and programs.