THE METHODS OF CUB SCOUTING

To accomplish its purposes and achieve the overall goals of building character, learning citizenship, and developing personal fitness, Cub Scouting uses seven methods:

• Living the Ideals
• Belonging to a Den
• Using Advancement
• Involving Family and Home
• Participating in Activities
• Serving Home and Neighborhood
• Wearing the Uniform

The methods bring Cub Scouting to life for boys and their families.

Living the Ideals. Cub Scouting’s values are embedded in the Scout Oath, 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 boys and the leaders who guide them.

Belonging to a Den. The den—a group of six to eight boys who are about the same age—is the place where Cub Scouting starts. In the den, Cub Scouts develop new skills and interests, they practice sportsmanship and good citizenship, and they learn to do their best, not just for themselves but for the den as well.

Using Advancement. Recognition is important to boys. The advancement plan provides fun for the boys, 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 boys on advancement projects.

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

Participating in 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 Home and Neighborhood. Cub Scouting focuses on the home and neighborhood. It helps boys strengthen connections to their local communities, which in turn support the boys’ growth and development.

Wearing the Uniform. Cub Scout uniforms serve a dual purpose, demonstrating membership in the group (everyone is dressed alike) and individual achievement (boys wear the badges they’ve earned). Wearing the uniform to meetings and activities also encourages a neat appearance, a sense of belonging, and good behavior.

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE SCOUT LAW TO CUB SCOUTING

While the points of the Scout Law may be self-explanatory for adults, helping the boys to understand them is the opportunity we have in Cub Scouting! We as members of the Boy Scouts of America believe they are a code to try to live by every day.

Look for [character compass indicators] in the intro section for each adventure. Character compass indicators provide a reference to the boy, his parents, and leaders to take a moment’s reflection on how they are brought about naturally with the work he is doing for his rank badge.