Rank Advancement
The Cub Scout Program is designed so that each year, the Cub Scouts have required adventures and a variety of elective adventures they can explore together.
As scouts complete the requirements for each adventure throughout the year, they will be recognized for their achievements, culminating in receiving their rank badge at the end of the year.
Each den works towards a rank of the same name. For example, the Wolf Den (2nd graders) works towards its Wolf Rank throughout that year. Each Cub Scout rank follows a similar set of requirements, with studies across a reoccurring set of major subjects—outdoor Skills, Nature, Community, Citizenship, Faith, and Health and exercise.
The major topics are repeated each year with the idea that children learn best through repetition and activities targeted to their age group. Each year the adventure requirements get a little more in-depth, to match the scout’s expanding curiosity and learning capabilities.
Also, scouts have yearly “Youth Protection” conversations with their parents.
Electives & NOVA Awards
In addition to the Adventures required for each rank, scouts are GREATLY encouraged to explore new interests and hobbies via elective Adventures and NOVA Science Awards
Scouting largely happens AT HOME. We encourage all parents to work with their scouts to explore electives each month.
Scouts are Trustworthy. If you log in Scoutbook that you completed part or all of an Adventure with your Cubscout – we believe you. There is no need to vet and review every Adventure earned with your den leader or pack leadership.
If you have any questions, we are always happy to help and answer. Otherwise, we fully encourage parents to work with their scouts to pursue new and varied interests.
Please Note – NOVA Awards must be administered by a a registered NOVA Counselor. GREAT news is that parents can sign up to be NOVA counselors.
Religious Awards
A Scout is Reverent. He is reverent toward God. He is faithful in his religious duties and respects the convictions of others in matters of custom and religion.
Religious groups have developed religious emblem programs to encourage members to grow stronger in their faith. The Boy Scouts of America has approved these programs and allows the emblems to be worn on the official uniform. The various religious groups administer the programs. Curriculum booklets can be obtained through the Scout Shop.
Note: Depending on rank, the religious award can satisfy some or all of the requirements of the faith-based adventure for that rank. It is also one of two awards that can be worn on the Boy Scout uniform as a youth or adult (the other being Arrow of Light).