Cub Scouting 101

Cub Scouting is fun for the whole family. In Scouting, boys and girls start with their best right now selves and grow into their very best future selves. It’s fun, hands-on learning and achievement that puts kids in the middle of the action and prepares them for today – and for life.

Pack / Den Organization & Advancement

The Pack as a whole is comprised of a series of smaller groups called Dens. Each Den is separated by grade and represented by an animal or symbol to help designate a Cubs rank. Rank Advancement is achieved through completing a short list of Adventures specific to each Den. Lion Cubs through Bear Cubs earn belt slides, while Webelos and AOL earn pins to display on colored cords worn on their right shoulder.

Kindergarten - Lion
1st Grade - Tiger
2nd Grade - Wolf

3rd Grade - Bear
4th Grade - Webelos (short for "We'll Be Loyal Scouts")
5th Grade - Arrow of Light (AOL for short)

On the advancement trail, a Cub Scout progresses towards a badge of rank based on their grade. They need not have earned the previous rank in order to earn the next. To earn each badge of rank a Cub Scout earns the six required Adventures and at least two elective Adventures. Required Adventures are based on the aims and areas of importance in Scouting. Each badge of rank is age-appropriate, so earning a rank below a Cub Scout’s current grade is not permitted.

View the full list of every adventures by rank. Or find a complete look and explanation of each adventure for each rank.

The Scout Oath, Law & Outdoor Code

The mission of Scouting 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, Law, and Outdoor.

Scout Oath

On my honor I will do my best To do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law;
To help other people at all times;
To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.