Cub Scouting uses eight specific methods to achieve Scouting’s aims of helping boys and young adults build character, train in the responsibilities of citizenship, and develop personal fitness. These methods are incorporated into all aspects of the program. Through these methods, Cub Scouting happens in the lives of boys and their families.
1. The ideals: The Cub Scout Promise, the Law of the Pack, and the Cub Scout sign, handshake, motto, and salute all teach good citizenship and contribute to a boy’s sense of belonging.
2. 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. The den is the place where the boys 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. They have fun in den meetings, during indoor and outdoor activities, and on field trips.
3. 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. Cub Scout leaders and adult family members work with boys on advancement projects.
4. Family involvement: Family involvement is an essential part of Cub Scouting. When we speak of parents or families, we are not referring to any particular family structure. Some boys live with two parents, some live with one parent, some have foster parents, and some live with other relatives or guardians. Whomever a boy calls his family, is his family in Cub Scouting.
5. Participating in Activities: In Cub Scouting, boys participate in a wide variety of den and pack activities, such as games, projects, skits, stunts, songs, outdoor activities, and trips. Also, the Cub Scout Academics and Sports program and Cub Scouting’s Fun for the Family include activities that encourage personal achievement and family involvement.
6. Home and neighborhood centered: Cub Scouting focuses on the home and neighborhood. Cub scouts meetings happen in the neighborhood and helps boys strengthen connections to their local communities, which in turn support the boys’ growth and development.
7. Wearing the uniform: The Cub Scout uniform helps build loyalty to each other and self-respect. Wearing the uniform to all den and pack meetings and activities also encourages a neat appearance, a sense of belonging, and good behavior.
8. Making Character Connections: Throughout the program, leaders learn to identify and use character lessons in activities so boys can learn to know, commit, and practice the 12 core values of Cub Scouting. Character Connections are included in all the methods of Cub Scouting and are the program themes for monthly pack meetings.