100 Cub Scout Questions

100 Cub Scout Answers

Q: How many boys make up a Den? back to question

A: Six to eight Cub Scouts is the suggested and recommended number of boys. Some Den Leaders may feel comfortable with more boys, especially if they have more than one assistant and a Den Chief. Dens are designed to be small neighborhood groups. If your Den is growing too large, it’s time for the Pack to form a new one, using your overflow as a nucleus.

Q: I’m not really good with crafts. What do I do? back to question

A: There are many resources with excellent instructions for theme-related craft projects available to you. With a little patience and practice, you’ll get the hang of it and probably enjoy it.

Resources:

• Cub Scout Program Helps
• Crafts for Cub Scouts
• The Wolf Cub Scout Book
• The Bear Cub Scout Book
• District Roundtable
• Pow Wow
• Den Leader Workshops
• Cub Scout Leader How-To Book
• Public Library
• Craft Magazines
• Other Den Leaders
• Den Leader Coach

Q: If a boy joins the Webelos den as a first time Cub Scout, can he go back and earn his Wolf and Bear ranks? back to question

A: No. He has to earn his Bobcat rank and then start working toward the rank for his grade/age level.

Q: What is a Den Chief, and how do I get one? back to question

A: A Den Chief is an older Boy Scout or Explorer that can assist as part of your Den’s leadership. With your guidance and direction, he can be a most valuable addition by leading songs and games, teaching tricks or puzzles, and helping with activities.

To get a Den Chief….

1. Tell your Cubmaster you need one.
2. The Cubmaster discusses your need with the Scoutmaster.
3. The Scoutmaster selects the right boy who has been trained in leadership skills.
4. The Cubmaster trains him in Cub Scouting skills so that he will be successful in working with a Den.

Q: What is an assistant Den Leader, and how is one obtained? back to question

A: An assistant Den Leader is another trained adult who can take over the Den Meeting in your absence. In order to obtain an assistant Den Leader, question the parents of your Den to see who would be interested, check with the Cubmaster to see if he/she knows of anyone who is interested or check with your Pack members to see who would be willing to help you out.

Q: Why should I go to Roundtable? back to question

A: Roundtable is the place to find out what is happening in the District and Council. You have the opportunity to share your ideas with others, and get their ideas. It is also a place where you can go to find out that other people are having the same frustrations that you are having in your local unit. It is also supplemental training where you can get ideas for your program and how to implement those ideas. You can actually save time by attending Roundtable because you can you can spend considerably less time planning your program and activities in your den or pack.

Q: How often am I supposed to hold Den meetings? back to question

A: It is recommended that Den meetings be held weekly, on the same day each week and preferably right after school in the home of the Den Leader. Although this is the ideal situation, it is not always feasible, and the availability of many options may be necessary –

• den meetings held in the evening at the Den Leaders home;
• den meetings held at schools, either during lunch time or immediately after classes in the afternoon;
• den meetings at the chartered organization;
• den meetings held at a facility provided by a civic organization or local business;d
• den meetings held in the home of someone other than the Den Leader, but still run by the Den Leader;
• den meetings held in a Scout room either at the school or the chartered organization.

The most important thing to remember is consistency - the same place, the same time each week as approved by the Pack Committee.

Q: Can I take my Den camping? back to question

A: Any camping other than backyard camping or family camping is not advocated for Cub Scouts.

Q: I don’t want the boys running all through my house at Den Meetings. How can I stop them? back to question

A: Each Den needs to establish its own set of rules. This should be done as a Den project with all Den members, boys and adults alike, contributing suggestions. Don’t go overboard, but be sure to include all the important items, such as:

• aAll Cub Scouts must stay in the Den Meeting area unless given permission by the Den Leader or assistant Den Leader to go to another room;
• no rough housing; no talking during ceremonies;
• each Cub Scout is responsible for returning his project materials to the proper place;
• each person is responsible for cleaning up after him/herself.

These are suggestions. Base your rules on your Den situation.

Q: Who should I contact to find out about District and Council activities and training? back to question

A: Attend Roundtable.

Q: What do I do when someone breaks the rules or is disruptive? How do I discipline? back to question

A: Be sure all your boys know the Cub Scout sign and its meaning — “when the sign goes up the mouth goes shut.” By giving the Cub Scout sign and discontinuing all activity until all the boys have stopped talking, you can often regain control. Don’t speak, just give the sign and wait.

The Den candle is a good idea. Select a fair sized candle (one that will last through several meetings, but not so large that it takes months to burn down), and light it at the beginning of each meeting. Let the boys know that when it burns down there will be a special outing, treat, party or whatever the Den decides to do, as a reward for good behavior.

Every time someone breaks a rule or misbehaves, the candle is blown out, and it will take that much longer to reach their reward. The candle is not lighted again during the Den Meeting. The boy(s) who misbehaved could be responsible for blowing out the candle which then would put peer pressure on the disruptive boy(s). If they cause the candle to be blown out, thereby delaying their reward, the rest of the Den will be upset with them.

Try “3 strikes and you’re out”. A boy that is disruptive three times during one meeting is not invited back for the next meeting. The first time a boy is disruptive he is given a verbal warning. The second time he can blow out the conduct candle, and, if he continues to misbehave, he should call his parents so that he can be picked up and taken away from the Den Meeting.

The parents of all boys should be informed of this procedure when the Den is established.

REMEMBER —

• You are not permitted to strike or physically punish any boy, even if his parents give you permission.
• Be fair — treat each boy the same, show no favoritism whatsoever.
• Be consistent — don’t let them get away with something one week that you will object to the next week.
• Don’t threaten - act. Boys are testers and will continue to misbehave as long as you let them.
• A boy that is continuously disruptive is depriving the other boys of the program. Talk to his parents if it continues.
• Plan enough physical activity to allow boys to let off steam/energy. If all they do is sit, they will act up because of boredom.
• Try to find out why a boy misbehaves. He may be trying to tell you something!

Q: How much advancement work should we do in the Den Meeting? back to question

A: Den Meetings are not “advancement factories.” Cub Scouting is home-centered and family oriented. Don’t deprive a family of working with their son by doing too much advancement work at the Den Meetings. A good balance of advancement projects are pre-planned for you in the Cab Scour Program Helps book. It won’t overwhelm the boys with book work, but at the same time, should encourage them to work at home. If for some reason a boy is not working on any of his advancements in his home, you, as his Den Leader, can take the time and work with the boy out of his book to make sure that he also will receive recognition as the other boys do. It is better to let boys know after the fact that they have completed a requirement while having fun or working on a project for a Pack Meeting.

Q: Who signs the Cub Scout’s book? back to question

A: The parents of Wolf and Bear Cub Scouts have the primary privilege of passing their son on advancement. The Den Leader may sign off achievements and electives done at Den or Pack meetings.

Q: As a Cubmaster, is it my responsibility to keep the record book? back to question

A: No. That is the job of the Pack secretary, Assistant Cubmaster, or a member of the Pack Committee.

Q: Who signs the Webelos Scout’s book when requirements are completed? back to question

A: The Webelos Leader, or the person he/she designates, will approve the completion of requirements and sign the Webelos’ Scout Book.

Q: Isn’t it true that the boys don’t have to do exactly what the requirement states as long as the “flavor” and spirit of the requirement is kept? The Leader can substitute something else, right? back to question

A: If a requirement says a boy must “show”, then the boy must show; if it says to “tell”, “list” or “demonstrate”, then the boy must tell, list or demonstrate to pass the requirement. Remember: it is still to the best of the individual boy’s ability.

Q: How often should a den meet? back to question

A: An active den should meet weekly, this will keep the boys involved in the program. If the Pack quits meeting during the summer months, they should plan at least one monthly activity for those in-active months. It is best to try and hold meetings at the same time, on the same day each week. This helps to build a regular routine with the boys.

Q: How often can we go camping? back to question

A: Webelos Scouts do not go camping in the same way as Boy Scouts. That is, Webelos Leaders do not take the Webelos Scouts out alone to camp…”Webelos Scouts are encouraged to have parent-guardian/son overnight experiences away from home. This is an important step in the transitional period from Cub Scouting to Scouting. Remember TWO DEEP LEADERSHIP! Each Webelos Scout Den should have one or two overnighters each year to ensure that all Den members will have the opportunity to earn the Arrow of Light award.

Q: Several of my Webelos Scouts’ parents are unable to go on an overnight campout. Should this experience be canceled? back to question

A: That is a decision that will have to be made by all the fathers able to go. Don’t forget: Although it is desirable to have each boy under the supervision of his own father, there are alternatives available for the boy who has no father, or whose father simply cannot go.

REMEMBER:

• only a parent or guardian can sleep in the same tent with their son;
• another father may be responsible for him;
• his mother could go in his Dad’s place;
• another male relative could go on the overnighter; or,
• a male member of the Pack Committee can substitute.

There shouldn’t be any “loose” boys (e.g., boys who aren’t the responsibility of someone other than yourself). Each "temporary or substitute Dad" is responsible for his “adopted” boy just as completely as his own son. If you and all the dads, real and substitute, feel there is enough supervision, go ahead. If the vote is no, consider a day hike instead, same alternatives applying. The Webelos Den overnight camp must be done right or it shouldn’t be done at all.

Q: How long should a Webelos den meeting be? back to question

A: A well run Webelos meeting will last no longer than 1-1/4 hours.

Q: I’m not that handy. How can I get my boys through all 10 activity pins? back to question

A: First, increase your own skills. Be sure to attend Basic Training and Outdoor Webelos Leader Training (OWL). OWL is a complete instructional session which includes outdoor skills. Attend any Webelos Leaders’ workshops that are available through your Council and regularly attend POW WOW and your District Roundtable. All of these will help you gain knowledge and experience in activity pin areas.

Don’t overlook the parents in the Pack as potential instructors. Boy Scouts who have gone through the Cub Scout program will be helpful as well as you and other parents of your Pack through utilization of the Parent Talent Survey. Someone may know of interested outsiders that would be willing to share their knowledge and expertise with your Den.

REMEMBER: You have two years to complete the entire Webelos’ program.

Q: Do I have to follow the monthly themes put out by the National Scout Office? back to question

A: There are two types of program planning materials available for use by Cub Scout Packs that you should use to make your planning and weekly Den Meetings easier and fun filled which also covers the areas of concern.

1. Cub Scout Program Helps: This book offers monthly plans that are broken down for weekly Den Meetings for the 8 and 9 year old boy in the Cub Scout Dens. When following the Cub Scout Program Helps book, the planning of each melting is coordinated and outlined for the Den Leader according to the monthly theme. Each month follows a theme, or suggested area in history, culture, etc., around which activities, games, projects, skits, outings, and Pack Meeting participation items are based.
2. Webelos Scout Helps: This is part of the Cub Scout Program Helps book and is geared to the activity pin areas the Webelos Dens will be exploring. It is coordinated with the themes the Cub Scout Dens will be working on as much as possible and provides plans for a full year of meetings for the Webelos Leader. Following the programs outlined in the Webelos Scout Helps is the easiest way to provide a well-rounded den program for your Den that follows the purposes and objectives of Scouting and encourages advancement.

Q: When can Webelos wear a tan shirt and/or a patrol patch instead of a den number. back to question

A: Upon becoming a Webelos Scout, the Scout and his family have the choice as to which uniform he will wear. If the boy was a Cub Scout, he might want to wear his blue uniform until he outgrows it, then switch to the khaki and tan uniform, but that is the family’s decision to make. The patrol emblem is a decision for the whole den to make. While they take the name and identity of a Patrol and wear the emblem, they are still a den.

Q: What about the boy that is not advancing? back to question

A: Talk with the boy yourself to see if you can aid him with any problem he may be having in not completing his requirements for advancing. Talk with his parents about the advancement plan and how it works. Offer your assistance to explain in detail, and in person, if necessary. Be sure to give proper recognition to the boy for advancement work when he does finish. Use the immediate recognition kit as an incentive for Wolf and Bear ranks.

Q: What is a Denner, and where do I get one? back to question

A: The Denner is one of the Cub Scouts in your Den. He is elected to office by the Den members and is responsible for assisting the Den Leadership (primarily the Den Chief if you have one but also should help the Den Leader). The Denner wears a special gold braid over his left shoulder to signify his position. The Denner is used to help set out craft materials, paper and pencil supplies, help to organize the game or a special activity and can help with last minute preparations and clean up after the Den Meeting is over.

Q: What do we do at Scouts? back to question

A: First and foremost, the boys have FUN. If the boys don’t enjoy themselves they won’t keep coming back.

Q: What are the Den Leader responsibilities at Pack meetings? back to question

A: Each month, Dens are asked to stage opening and closing ceremonies, skits, stunts or songs, or to help with the setup or arrangement of the Pack Meeting like setting up chairs and tables for the Scouts, family members and guests. Den assignments are made at the monthly Pack Leaders’ Meeting. The Den Leader will also be responsible for maintaining the discipline of his/her Den.

Q: How old can you be to join Cub Scouts? back to question

A: A boy must at least be in the first grade or be 7, 8, 9, or 10 years old.

Q: What about fund-raisers? How often and what kind? back to question

A: Local Councils must approve all fund-raising projects. Obtain the “Unit Money Earning" application (form #34427) from the Council office and be sure you understand the ten guides to unit money-earning projects listed on the back of the form. When you are confident your project conforms with the guidelines, fill out the application and submit it to your Council for approval.

Another Council sponsored fund-raising activity is the Popcorn Sale wherein various types of popcorn are sold. The amount of popcorn sold by a Scout will determine the type of reimbursement given to the Pack (usually monetary) or the Scout (e.g., prize(s)).

Check with your local Council to find out about other Council sponsored events or what your Pack can do to earn money. There are Dens who also participate in fund raisers to earn money.

How often? Generally one successful fund-raiser a year will suffice if you are careful with expenses and follow your budget. If your Pack is one that offers funds to the Scouts for registration, books, summer camping fees, etc., another fund-raiser or two may be beneficial.

Q: How much does Scouts cost? back to question

A: The Scouting program has several costs involved. The basic cost is the standard $ 10.00 registration fee to National. Then there is $ 9.00 for an annual subscription to Boys Life. Then there are Pack dues (set by each individual unit), and in some cases you will find Den dues. The basic $ 19.00 is the same nation-wide; the rest varies greatly.

Q: How often should our Pack have Committee Meetings? back to question

A: The Frequency of meetings for the Pack Committee alone are based on the need for such meetings. Usually the Committee will meet with the rest of the Pack leadership for the monthly Pack Leaders’ Meeting and conduct all the Pack business at that time.

Q: Do you go on field trips? back to question

A: Pack and den trips are a welcome change from the routine of pack and den meetings during the school year and are good summer activities that teach the boys something about their community and how it is run. Get permission before you go. Remember that a minimum of two adults must be present on all field trips.

Q: Who plans the Pack Meeting? back to question

A: Pack Meetings are planned at the monthly Pack Leaders’ Meeting with all Pack and Den Leaders offering suggestions and help. This meeting is held about one week prior to the Pack Meeting, at which time final details for the upcoming Pack Meeting are ironed out, and the following month’s plans are set.

Q: Where do we get our uniform? back to question

A: You can purchase new uniforms from the Scout ShopT or an authorized Scout dealer. You can also find used uniforms at yard sales, thrift shops and flea markets. Many units have uniform banks or exchanges to help you with uniforming.

Q: What does a Den Leader Coach do? back to question

A: Den Leader Coach is a sympathetic ear, a helping hand, and an on-the-job teacher to new Den Leaders who sometimes feel overwhelmed and lost with their new responsibilities. The Den Leader Coach can often make the difference between the Den Leaders staying with it and doing their best or getting discouraged and dropping out. The Den Leader Coach also “takes the heat” off the Cubmaster by serving as a liaison between the Cubmaster and the Den Leaders. Coaches accumulate many questions and concerns expressed by the leaders and communicate these with one phone call as opposed to several by each Den Leader. Usually, the Coach will be able to handle most situations without involving the Cubmaster.

Q: Are any religious beliefs welcome? back to question

A: The Boys Scouts of America maintains that no member can grow into the best kind of citizen without recognizing an obligation to God. The Boy Scouts of America is absolutely nonsectarian in its attitude toward religious training.

Q: Is there training for being a Den Leader Coach? back to question

A: YES!!! There is usually a Den Leader Coach Seminar conducted once a year through the Council in your area. Often Den Leader Coach training is offered through a POW WOW session. Call your Council office and check to see when the next Den Leader Coach Seminar is being held and where it will take place. If a session is not being held, contact your District Training Committe Chair. He/she will be able to provide a personal coaching session for you.

Q: How can I get the Den Leaders to go to Roundtable? back to question

A: IN YOUR CAR!!! Don’t send them - take them. If there is absolutely no way a Den Leader can attend, be sure to share with him/her the multitude of information and ideas that are given at Roundtable.

Q: Can a boy from a single parent family join Scouting? back to question

A: Yes, the Scouting movement has many boys from single parent families. While at the Tiger Cub level, an Adult partner is necessary for joining, at the higher ranks the boy doesn’t have to have a parent with them for all activities.

Q: If all the Den Leaders from our Pack go to Roundtable, won’t that put the Den Leader Coach out of a job? back to question

A: No, but it will make your Den Leader Coach’s task much easier. The Den Leader Coach is responsible for coordinating the efforts of the various Dens at Pack Meetings, counseling Den Leaders with problems, representing them to the Pack Committee, helping recruit new leaders, and enough additional responsibilities that the Den Leader Coach will probably welcome their attendance at Roundtable.

Q: I would like for my son to join Scouts, but we can’t afford some of the things that are required. What can I do. back to question

A: While the registration fees must be paid in order to join, some things such as uniform can wait. You can pick up used uniform parts as you find them, and can afford them. Most units can help the truly needy with their dues, and many youth can learn a valuable lesson by doing some odd jobs to help earn their dues money. Seldom will a boy that wants to be a Scout be turned away do to lack of money.

Q: I’ve been with this Pack a long time and have given on-the-job training to many new Den Leaders. Often a new Den Leader feels that the training that has been provided is all that is needed. How can I make sure that complete training is taken? back to question

A: Training teams put in many, many hours of hard work, research and time into each course. These courses are constantly being updated to remain abreast of every new development in the Cub Scout program, and are generally offered at a minimal fee. Perhaps if you stressed the importance of what training can do for a leader and offered to take them or make arrangements for them to attend, you would have better response.

Q: Can my son join Scouting if he has a handicap? back to question

A: Yes, the Scouting program has provisions set up for members with disabilities. This information can be found in the Policies section (chapter 7) of the Cub Scout Leader Handbook. For additional information on membership and advancement of Cub Scouts with disabilities, check with your Council Service Center.

Q: What can our Unit Commissioner do for us, and where do I find him/her? back to question

A: Your Unit Commissioner is a dedicated, experienced Scouter willing to assist your Pack in many ways. He/she can help you make troop contacts, locate people, equipment, and materials, assist in the rechartering process and in recruiting and program planning. As an outside observer, your Unit Commissioner can often spot potential problems and weaknesses in your program quickly and can help you solve them personally or by calling in District or Council personnel.

Contact your Council office or your District Executive to see what Unit Commissioner has been assigned to your Pack. Be sure to get his/her telephone number so that a call may be placed to him/her to set up a meeting. Also, get your Unit Commissioner’s address so that an invitation can be extended for special events (e.g., Blue and Gold Dinner, Advancements, Pack Committee Meetings, Recruiting nights, etc.).

Q: How often should we recruit? back to question

A: ALL YEAR LONG!! Each fall the Boy Scouts of America launches a major recruitment drive called SCHOOL or RALLY NIGHTS. All Packs across the nation are urged to take part and are supplied with materials to aid them. Many Districts organize a spring membership drive in addition to the autumn program. This is not meant to imply that recruiting should only take place once or twice a year. Boys become interested in Cub Scouts every day of the year and should be offered the opportunity to join the Pack as soon as they are interested. Leaders should be recruited as the need arises.

Q: Where and when are Den meetings held? back to question

A: There is no set time or place for meetings to be held. The main requirement is for the meeting to be held at a Safe Place. They can be held at a Den Leader’s home, at a place provided by the Charter Organization or at a Church, school or city building. Just be sure to meet the TWO-DEEP LEADERSHIP requirement.

Q: Can I become a leader, and what does it entail? back to question

A: To become a register leader, one must first be approved by the Charter Organization. Once approved, you can register. The position you are given will be according to the needs of the Pack, and what you are wanting to do. Once registered, RUN, don’t walk to the nearest Cub Scout Leader Training session. Every boy deserves a trained leader.

Q: What are the responsibilities of the Chartered Organization? back to question

A: The Chartered Organization operates the Scouting unit. This organization may be a church, a school, a PTA, a civic organization, etc. The chartered organization agrees to conduct the Scouting program according to the policies of the Boy Scouts of America. Some chartered organizations have more than one Scouting unit.

Your chartered organization is responsible for these things:

• Furnishing a SAFE meeting place for the monthly Pack Meeting.
• Selecting adults to operate the Pack according to the organization’s policies.
• Appointing a Chartered Representative for the Scouting units.

Q: What question is really supposed to be here? back to question

A: I don’t know. It was missing from my source documents. That’s OK, though. This is Scouting…we have to learn to roll with the punches and react to whatever situation we are confronted with a minimum amount of stress and worry.

Q: If I can’t attend the meetings, is there anything I can do to help? back to question

A: Parental help outside the meeting is always needed. You can help with a telephone tree. Parents are always needed to help with refreshments for Den meetings and pack meetings. You could be of assistance with fundraisers such as the Popcorn drive. You could always do errands like picking up supplies from the Scout ShopT. The Pack committee and Cubmaster always have needs that a parent can be of help with. Just ask!!!

Q: Who should sign the checks for Pack expenses? back to question

A: It is a good policy to always have two signatures required on the Pack account, the Treasurer’s of course, and either the Cubmaster’s or the Committee Chairperson.

Q: What kind of activities do we do at Scouts? back to question

A: At Cub Scout meeting, there will be all type of games, crafts, skits and songs. There will be races with boats, cars and possibly rockets or turtles. You will learn many new things, and they may be about stuff right next door or maybe from all around the world. There will be several opportunities for organized family camping every year. If you attend Cub Scout Day Camp, or Cub Resident Camp, you might have the opportunity to swim, shoot BB guns or learn Archery. You might even get the chance to do some canoeing or boat rowing. The fun is endless, and that’s the key to a good program, FUN FUN FUN.

Q: How can Roundtables help our Pack? back to question

A: Roundtables give your Pack leadership hands-on experience and supplemental materials to aid you in carrying out the Cub Scout program in your Pack. Each month, theme reinforcements such as ceremonies, songs, crafts, games, field trips, open forum for questions/answers and program ideas are presented for you to use in your Pack. Contact your Council office or your District Commissioner to see when and where your Roundtable is taking place for your District.

Q: Who will be delivering the training I keep hearing about? back to question

A: In the Bluebonnet District, we have training occurring throughout the year. Check our Training Calendar. Remember, you can attend any training in any District. You do not have to wait until it is offered in our district.

Q: We often hear about ceremonies. Are they really all that important? back to question

A: YES, THEY ARE VERY IMPORTANT!!!!!

• They show boys and parents the proper use and respect of the American Flag.
• They acknowledge the boys and their parents with the purpose and meaning of the Cub Scout program.
• They stimulate advancements in the Pack by creating an incentive to do things not only for fun but also for the recognition.
• They offer an opportunity for recognition of parents. They may increase parent attendance at Pack Meetings because in many ceremonies the parents are asked to take part.
• They can be the vehicle for the make believe and pageantry that most boys and parents enjoy.

Q: Why can’t women den leaders wear the khaki uniform? back to question

A: As of September 1996, the khaki/tan uniform is now available as an official option for all female Scouters.

Q: What types of recognition are appropriate for the adult leaders, and when should it be given? back to question

A: Recognition is a method that is used to motivate boys not only to acknowledge their achievements but also move them toward advancement. Adult leaders are no different. They need to be recognized for their achievements and the time and effort they have used for doing a good job. Saying “thank you” sometimes isn’t enough to encourage a leader for working and accomplishing something. Here are a few ideas in addition to “thank you”.

• Certificate of Appreciation: For chairing or helping with a special Pack event.
• Certificate of Appreciation: For service as a Leader. Can be presented at the Blue and Gold Banquet.
• A formal written thank you note from the Pack Committee: For additional Pack service by a Leader.
• A special gift or special award: At a Pack Meeting before they advance into a Troop.
• A thank you from the heart for someone who is truly doing his/her best. This can be done any time.
• Special applause: For a job well done at a Pack Meeting.

Q: Can a leader wear more than one Quality Unit Award on their uniform at one time? back to question

A: No, according to the 2003 printing of the Insignia Guide it states: “Only the most recently earned Quality Unit emblem may be worn”.

Q: A boy with disabilities has applied for membership in our Pack. Shouldn’t he be in a special Pack? back to question

A: Not necessarily. The decision to accept this child into your Pack would depend on the extent of his disabilities. Consult with the boy, his parents, teachers, and his proposed Den Leader to help you determine his expected level of participation and the advisability of his membership. Most boys with disabilities will benefit greatly from membership in your Pack and can actually contribute much to the personal growth of the other boys and leaders.

Because of special classes and schools for the disabled, there often is little social interaction between youth without disabilities and disabled boys at this age. Working, playing and sharing together in Den situations can increase the confidence and capabilities of the special boy and contribute to the understanding and compassion of the regular Cub Scout. Mainstreaming, or the placement of disabled boys into Packs with boys without disabilities, is encouraged by the Boy Scouts of America.

The program does not need to be altered, but certain considerations may be extended to the handicapped Scout, such as registration beyond the regular age requirement and the substitution of electives for physical feats outside the realm of the child’s capabilities. There are specific procedures to follow when doing this. As with any of the boys in the Pack, they should always be encouraged to “DO YOUR BEST”.

Q: Can a Cub Scout leader earn two awards at the same time if he has served in two positions simultaneously? back to question

A: According to BSA publication #34169 Leadership Training Committee Guide: Plans, Procedures, Materials:

• Tenure used to earn one key or award cannot be used earn another key or award.
• The only exception to this is in the case of the Boy Scout Leader Training Award, which can be earned in conjunction with the Scoutmaster’s Key.

Q: Our last Pack Meeting of the year is in May. We have a hard time rounding up all the Cub Scouts when we start up again in the fall. Are there any suggestions for making this easier? back to question

A: Offer a year-round program that will keep the Pack together throughout the summer. Keep the Dens together over the summer. Each Den can meet just once a month for either a regular Den Meeting or an outing. This will keep the boys interested, advancing and in the program in the fall, because they never left the program.

Plan and carry out one Pack activity each month during the summer. Baseball games, picnics, backyard barbecues or Pack volleyball games are just some ideas that can be enjoyed by the Cub Scouts and their families. It keeps everyone in touch, is fun and can help your Pack earn the National Summertime Pack Award.

Don’t forget to include Cub Scout day camp, Resident Camp or other type of Cub Scout sponsored camping in your summer plans. Remember to have adequate leadership for the whole year. Eliminate possible program gaps by recruiting Leaders in the spring to replace those that are advancing into Boy Scouts with their sons.

Q: When are Cub Scout Leader awards presented? back to question

A: It is important to the recognition plan that all awards be presented in a dignified manner, at an occasion befitting the achievement. Immediate recognition of achievement should be given by presentation of the award in the presence of the unit membership and representatives of the chartered organization. Announcement in the council newsletter and in other news media is recommended. In addition, announcement at a major event in the district or council is desirable.

Q: Who can wear the Trained Leader emblem? back to question

A: The trained emblem is for all leaders who have completed the Fast Start and basic training programs appropriate to their positions.

Q: Why should I have to pay an annual registration fee when I volunteer so much of my time? back to question

A: The $ 10.00 annual registration fee really isn’t very much when you consider all that leaders receive in return. Your National Fee provides for Local Council Assistance, program research and development, program materials including Scouting Magazine, and local Council insurance and benefits. Once a year adults in Scouting are asked to also financially support their local Council through the Friends of Scouting campaign (FOS). This support provides for maintaining local camps, training, local communications, a service center operation for maintaining records and information, a Scout Shop, a professional and clerical staff to support unit Leaders, and health and accident insurance for all members.

Q: How do you keep records? back to question

A: An Assistant Cubmaster or Pack Secretary could be given the task of keeping the Pack Record Book up to date. Den leaders are responsible for keeping accurate up-to-date den records. More information on this is available in the Cub Scout Leader Book, under Den and Pack Management, Chapter 10.

Q: My son is friends with a group of boys in the second grade. My son is only in the first grade, why can’t my son be in the den with his friends? back to question

A: Because the joining requirements for joining a Wolf den are he must be in the second grade or be 8 years old. So, I guess if the youth is an 8 year old first grader he could join with his friends. If not, he belongs in the Tiger Cubs with the boys his own age. Hopefully, he will make new friends there. And he will be around his older friends at Pack functions.

Q: Do we get to go camping? back to question

A: Overnight camping by second- and third-grade Cub Scout dens or Cub Scout packs other than at an approved camping facility operated by the local council is not approved, and certificates of liability insurance will not be provided by the Boy Scouts of America.

Q: Why is training so important? back to question

A: Leadership training for the adults in the Cub Scout program is important for one simple reason: BECAUSE 7-, 8-, 9- AND 10-YEAR OLD BOYS ARE IMPORTANT. Not only now, but to the future of all of us. You cannot be expected to adequately provide a complex program of citizenship development, character building, and physical and mental development for boys without the benefit of instruction.

Everything we have learned to do in our lives is the result of some sort of training, be it feeding and dressing ourselves, driving a car, or reading this page. Each new task we take on in life requires training. The Boy Scouts of America recognizes this fact and has set forth training programs appropriate for every phase of Scouting.

Some of the ways training will make your job easier and help you:

• Understanding your job responsibilities and the responsibilities of the others with which you serve.
• Understanding boys of Cub Scout age.
• Understanding the policies and procedures of the Boy Scouts of America.
• Locating and using resources.
• Introducing you to other Cub Scout Leaders interested in providing a great experience for the youth of your community.
• Answering your questions about things that concern you.

Q: One of my Den members if new to scouting and wants to go back to earn his Wolf and Bear badges. Should I encourage him to do so? back to question

A: NO !!! Keep him in the Webelos Scout program which is geared for his age and abilities. The first thing that this boy must earn is his Bobcat badge. Then he should continue to earn activity pins. No boy is allowed to go back and earn the Wolf or Bear badge once he is no longer of that age group or in the appropriate school grade class for that rank.

Q: What is Arrow of Light? back to question

A: The Arrow of Light is the highest award in Cub Scouting. May be earned by Webelos Scouts. It is also the only Cub Scout badge that can be worn on the Boy Scout uniform.

Q: What is a den? back to question

A: A neighborhood group of 6-8 Cub Scouts or Webelos Scouts who usually meet once a week.

Q: What is the difference between ranks of Tiger, Wolf, Bear and Webelo? back to question

A: The different rank programs are set to be age specific. By doing so, the boys will be working on things that are more likely to be at their level. If you had 7-11 year old all thrown together (as in Boy Scouts) the maturity levels would make activities almost impossible to achieve as a group.

Q: What are Tiger Cubs? back to question

A: A Tiger Cub is a boy who is in the first grade (or is 7 years old) and registered, with an adult partner, as a member of a Tiger Cub group.

Q: What is the Bobcat? back to question

A: The first rank for all boys who join Cub Scouting (after Tigers).

Q: What are Wolf Cub Scouts? back to question

A: The Cub Scout rank designated for a second-grade Cub Scout (or one who is 8). Wolf rank is earned by completing 12 achievements.

Q: What are Bear Cub Scouts? back to question

A: The Cub Scout rank designated for a third-grade Cub Scout (or one who is 9).

Q: What are Webelos Scouts? back to question

A: A Cub Scout who has completed third grade (or is 10) and is a member of a Webelos den. Webelos Scouts wear a distinctive uniform.

Q: Do I have to attend the entire training session if I have already been trained in another position? back to question

A: No, all you have to attend is the split session for the position you are being re-trained for.

Q: Why can’t the Cub Scout uniform be worn for fundraisers other than Council events such as popcorn? back to question

A: The selling of any product must be done on its own merits. The official uniforms are intended primarily for use in connection with activities of the Scouting movement, but their use may be authorized by local Councils under conditions and for purposes not inconsistent with the principles of Scouting and the Scouting program.

Q: Why can’t my son wear his Cub Day Camp and Resident Camp patches on his uniform? back to question

A: The Uniform guide states that only one temporary patch can be worn on the uniform at a time. It will be worn centered on the right pocket. BSA has available, a nice red brag vest that is a perfect place for the scout to display and wear all the patches earned and awarded at different Scouting Activities.

Q: What is a Pack meeting? back to question

A: A monthly meeting of all the dens and Pack families for games, skits, presentation of advancement awards, and other recognitions.

Q: How long is the Pack meeting? back to question

A: A well planned Pack meeting lasts no longer than 1 ½ hours.

Q: What are Arrow points? back to question

A: An arrow point is an award for earning 10 elective credits in WOLF or BEAR books. The first 10 electives earned in either rank represent a Gold Arrow Point. Subsequent groups of 10 earn Silver Arrow Points.

Q: What is an elective? back to question

A: A part of the Cub Scouting advancement program. There are 22 electives in the Wolf book and 24 in the Bear book.

Q: As a parent, do I need to attend the Pack meetings? back to question

A: Yes, Pack meeting are meant to be enjoyed by the entire family.

Q: What is a Pow Wow? back to question

A: A training course for Cub Scout Leaders conducted by the District or Council. It is usually held annually.

Q: What is Cub Scout day camp? back to question

A: A daytime outdoor activity conducted on Council or District basis for Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts.

Q: What are Compass points? back to question

A: A recognition earned by Webelos Scouts who have completed the requirements for the Webelos badge. Consists of a cloth badge and metal devices, each representing four activities badges beyond those required for the Webelos badge.

Q: Who can sign the boys advancement requirements? back to question

A: In the Cub Scout program, the boys parent is his Akela, and as such signs the requirements.

Q: What is Cub Scout Resident Camp? back to question

A: An overnight camping activity conducted by the Council for Cub Scouts and/or Webelos Scouts.

Q: What is a Den Aide? back to question

A: A teenage boy or girl (14-17) who helps a den leader in situations where a den chief is not available. It is a non-registered position.

Q: What is a Lone Cub Scout? back to question

A: A boy of Cub Scout age who, unable to join a pack because of unusual conditions, follows the Cub Scout program under the leadership of a Lone Cub Scout friend and counselor.

Q: When is Scouting Anniversary Week? back to question

A: The week, beginning on a Sunday, which includes February 8, Anniversary Day.

Q: What is a District? back to question

A: A geographic administrative unit of a Council.

Q: What is a Council? back to question

A: A chartered body of representatives from organizations operating Scouting units and members at large responsible for Scouting in a designated geographical area.

Q: What is a Tour Permit? back to question

A: Permit designed to assist units in planning safe, helpful, and enjoyable trips and to ensure that proper procedures will be followed in case of emergency.

Q: What is a Volunteer Scouter? back to question

A: A registered individual who donates service, time, and/or funds to support the program of the Boy Scouts of America.

Q: What is a Professional Scouter? back to question

A: A registered, full-time employee of the Boy Scouts of America who has successfully completed formal training at the National Executive Institute or National Training School.

Q: How much time can I expect to spend on Cub Scouts each week? back to question

A: The usual answer you get is an hour a week.NOT!!! Planning Den meetings the night before is not a good idea and usually too late. You will be duly rewarded (i.e., gratified) for your efforts by successfully executing a well planned Den or Pack meeting.

Q: What if I have a question that has not been answered here? back to question

A: If your question has not been asked or some other questions of yours have not been answered, please consult the Cub Scout Leader Handbook. If you still do not find the information you are seeking, contact your Unit Commissioner who should be able to answer your question or get you the information you want. If you do not have or know your Unit Commissioner, contact your District Commissioner. The District Training Committee Chair and staff are also potential sources of information. If you cannot reach any of these people, call your District Executive (your DE should be the last person you consider calling). The volunteers listed above are all specially trained to help you with your problems, and they considerably lighten the load of the busy District Executive.