As a worldwide movement, Scouting is unique. It is based on the principles of loving and serving God, of human dignity and the rights of individuals, and of recognizing the obligation of members to develop and use their potential. It is a movement dedicated to bringing out the best in people. Cub Scouting doesn’t emphasize winning as an end result, but rather the far more demanding task of doing one’s best.

When Scouting can help nurture courage and kindness and allow children to play, to laugh, to develop their imaginations, and to express their feelings, then we will have helped them grow. We want children to become useful and stable individuals who are aware of their own potential. Helping a child to learn the value of their own worth is the greatest gift we can give them.

Cub Scouting Is Fun

Boys & girls join Cub Scouting because they want to have fun. Fun means a lot more than just having a good time. “Fun” is a code word for the satisfaction they get from meeting challenges, having friends, feeling good about themselves, and feeling important to other people. While they are having fun and doing things they like to do, they also learn new things, discover and master new skills, gain self-confidence, and develop strong friendships.

Cub Scouting Has Ideals

Cub Scouting has ideals of spiritual and character growth, citizenship training, and personal fitness. The Scout Oath is a pledge of duty to God and family. The Scout Law is a simple formula for good Cub Scouting and good citizenship. The Cub Scout motto, “Do Your Best,” is a code of excellence.  Symbols, such as the Cub Scout sign, Cub Scout salute, and the Living Circle, help Scouts feel a part of a distinct group and add to the appeal of belonging to a widely respected organization.

Cub Scouting Strengthens Families

The family is an important influence on our nation’s youth. There are many different types of family structures in today’s world. Scouting is a support to all types of families as well as to organizations to which families belong. We believe in involving families in the training of youth, and we are sensitive to the needs of present-day families. Cub Scouting provides opportunities for family members to work and play together, to have fun together, and to get to know each other a little better.

Cub Scouting Helps Boys & Girls Develop Interests and Skills

In Cub Scouting, boys & girls participate in a broad array of activities. Cub Scouts develop ability and dexterity, and they learn to use tools and to follow directions. Recognition and awards encourage them to learn about a variety of subjects, such as conservation, safety, physical fitness, community awareness, academic subjects, sports, and religious activities. These interests might become a hobby or even a career later in life.

Cub Scouting Provides Adventure

Cub Scouting helps fulfill a desire for adventure and allows them to use their vivid imagination while taking part in skits, games, field trips, service projects, outdoor activities, and more. A variety of adventure themes let a Scout play the role of an astronaut, clown, explorer, scientist, or other exciting character.  Scouts find adventure in exploring the outdoors, learning about nature, and gaining a greater appreciation for our beautiful world.

Cub Scouting Has an Advancement Plan

The advancement plan recognizes a Scout’s efforts and achievements. It provides fun for the Scouts, teaches them to do their best, and helps strengthen understanding as family members work with the Scouts on advancement requirements. Badges are awarded to recognize advancement, and Scouts like to receive and wear these badges. The real benefit comes from the worthwhile things the Scout learns while he/she is earning the badges, as his/her self-confidence and self-esteem grow.

Cub Scouting Creates Fellowship

Boys & girls like to be accepted as part of a group. In Cub Scouting, Scouts belong to a small group called a den where they take part in interesting and meaningful activities with their friends. The Cub Scout den and pack are positive places where Scouts can feel emotionally secure and find support. Each boy & girl gains status and recognition and has a sense of belonging to this group.

Cub Scouting Promotes Diversity

In Cub Scouting, Scouts may learn to interact in a group that may include Scouts of various ethnicities, income levels, religions, and levels of physical ability. By having fun together and working as a group toward common goals, Cub Scouts learn the importance of not only getting along, but also of working side by side with other Scouts of different races, classes, religions, cultures, etc.

Cub Scouting Teaches Duty to God and Country

The BSA believes that no member can grow into the best kind of citizen without recognizing an obligation to God, and encourages both youth and adult leaders to be faithful in their religious duties. The Scouting movement has long been known for service to others. Scouting believes that patriotism plays a significant role in preparing our nation’s youth to become useful and participating citizens. A Cub Scout learns their duty to God, country, others, and self.

Cub Scouting Provides a Year-Round Program

Cub Scouting has no specific “season”—it’s a year-round program. While spring and summer pack activities are informal and there are many activities that Cub Scouts do outdoors, there’s still plenty of fun to be had in the fall and winter: the pinewood derby, blue and gold banquet, skits, stunts, craft projects, and indoor games help to round out an entire year of fun and activities.

Cub Scouting Is a Positive Place

With all the negative influences in today’s society, Scouting provides your child with a positive peer group who can encourage them in all the right ways. Carefully selected leaders provide good role models and a group setting where values are taught and help to reinforce positive qualities of character.

Information on this page provided by the Boy Scouts of America – www.scouting.org