While the entire pack is considered a Cub Scout Pack, be aware that the term "Cub Scout" sometimes refers more specifically to the Wolf & Bear years. Scouts advance from Tiger to Cub (Wolf, then Bear) to Webelos. There are grade/age requirements for beginning the Tiger, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos programs. In addition, the Bobcat Badge is required before beginning work on any of the other Ranks. The Webelos program is generally a 20-month program, but can be completed in one year if necessary.
Each level (or rank) of scouting has different advancement requirements. The scout handbooks are essential guides to these requirements, containing all the requirement details, as well as helpful hints and facts. There are also many web sites that provide valuable information to assist you with cub scout advancement, but beware of out-dated sites and remember that the handbook is usually the authority. See the links to the left and our pack's
activity ideas and info for more information and links to helpful web sites.
The Academics and Sports Program and other awards supplement the Cub Scout programs. The requirements for these awards are generally not included in the handbook for each rank as these programs continue throughout the Cub Scout years. See the link to the left for more information, including a great web site with all the latest requirements. These awards are generally optional, but some Academic and Sports awards are requirements of Webelos Activity Badges.
Rank badges, academic/sports belt loops & pins, and various other awards are presented to scouts at the pack meetings as they are earned. If the den chooses to use the Progress Towards Rank totems, the progress beads are awarded at den meetings. The Arrow of Light is awarded at the Blue and Gold to those Webelos scouts that have earned it. This is the only Cub Scout award that may be worn on the Boy Scout uniform. (The religious knot patch may also be earned as a Cub Scout and worn on the Boy Scout uniform, but it is not an official Cub Scout award. It is awarded by the religious organization and is recognized by the BSA.)