100 Cub Scout Questions Answered

1. Q. How many boys make up a Den?

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.

2. Q. I'm not really good with crafts. What do I do?

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

3. 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?

A. No, he has to earn his Bobcat rank, and then starts working towards the rank for his grade/age level.

4. Q. What is a Den Chief and how do I get one?

A. A Den Chiefs 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.

5. Q. What is an assistant Den Leader and how is one obtained?

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.

6. Q. Why should I go to Roundtable?

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 and 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 ideas on 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.

7. Q. How often am I supposed to hold Den meetings?

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. Because of the changing lifestyles of the 90's (busing, the increase of working mothers, and the increase of one parent families)many options are available.

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.

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.

8. Q. Can I take my Den camping?

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

9. Q. I don't want the boys running all through my house at Den Meetings. How can I stop them?

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: All 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.

10. Q. Who should I contact to find out about District and council Activities, and training?

A. Attend Roundtable.

11. Q. What do I do when someone breaks the rules or is disruptive? How do I discipline?

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 sired 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!

12. Q. How much advancement work should we do in the Den Meeting?

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.

13. Q. Who signs the Cub Scout's books?

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.

14. Q. As a Cubmaster, is it my responsibility to keep the record book?

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

15. Q. Who signs the Webelos Scout's book when requirements are completed?

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

16. 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?

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.

17. Q. How often should a den meet?

B. 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.

18. Q. How often can we go camping?

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.

19. Q. Several of my Webelos Scouts' parents are unable to go on an overnight campout. Should this experience be canceled?

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 place,

Another male relative could go on the overnighter, or

A male member of the Pack Committee.

There shouldn't be any "loose" boys, 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.

20. Q. How long should a Webelos den meeting be?

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

21. Q. I'm not that handy. How can I get my boys through all 10 activity pins?

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.

22. Q. Do I have to follow the monthly themes put out by the National Scout Office?

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.

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.

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.

23. Q. When can Webelos wear a tan shirt and/or a patrol patch instead of a den number.

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 families 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.

24. Q. What about the boy that is not advancing?

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.

25. Q. What is a Denner, and where do I get one?

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.

26. Q. What do we do at Scouts?

A. First and foremost, the boys have FUN, if the boys don't enjoy themselves they won't keep coming back.

27. Q. What are the Den Leader responsibilities at Pack meetings?

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; such as chairs and tables for the Scouts and his family members. 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.

28. Q. How old can you be to join Cub Scouts?

A. A boy must be in the first grade (or be 7, 8, 9, or 10 years old).

29. Q. What about fund-raisers' How often and what kind?

A. Local Councils must approve all fund-raising projects. Obtain the "Unit Money Earning' application (no. 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 and depending upon the amount of popcorn that has been sold by a Scout will depend upon the type of reimbursement given to the boy or the Pack.

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.

30. Q. How much does Scouts cost?

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.

31. Q. How often should our Pack have Committee Meetings?

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.

32. Q. Do you go on field trips?

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.

33. Q. Who plans the Pack Meeting?

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.

34. Q. Where do we get our uniform?

A. You can purchase new uniforms from the Scout Shop ™ 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.

35. Q. What does a Den Leader Coach do?

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 him/her and the Den Leaders. He/she can 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 he/she will be able to handle most situations without involving the Cubmaster.

36. Q. Is any religious beliefs welcome?

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.

37. Q. Is there training for being a Den Leader Coach?

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 Chairperson. He/she will be able to provide a personal coaching session for you.

38. Q. How can I get the Den Leaders to go to Roundtable?

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.

39. Q. Can a boy from a single parent family join Scouting?

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.

40. Q. If all the Den Leaders from our Pack go to Roundtable, won't that put the Den Leader Coach out of a job?

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 the 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.

41. 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.

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.

42. 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 if all that is needed. How can I make sure that complete training is taken?

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.

43. Q. Can my son join Scouting if he has a handicap?

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.

44. Q. What can our Unit Commissioner do for us? And where do I find him/her?

A. Your Unit Commissioner is a dedicated, experienced Scouter willing to assist your Pact 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.

45. Q. How often should we recruit?

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.

46. Q. Where are the meetings held, and at what time?

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 Leaders 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.

47. Q. Can I become a leader, and what does it entail?

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.

48. Q. What are the responsibilities of the Chartered Organization?

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.

49. Q. What question is really supposed to be here?

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 with a minimum amount of stress and worry.

50. If I can't attend the meetings, is there anything I can do to help?

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 Shop ™. The Pack committee and Cubmaster always have needs that a parent can be of help with. Just ask!!!

51. Q. Who should sign the checks for Pack expenses?

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.

52. Q. What kind of activities do we do at Scouts?

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, they may 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, shoot Bow and Arrows. 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.

53. Q. How can Roundtables help our Pack?

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 s taking place for your District.

54. Q. Who will be delivering the Training I keep hearing about?

A. In the Arrowhead District, we have training occurring all of the time. 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.

55. Q. We often hear about ceremonies. Are they really all that important?

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.

56. Q. Why can't Women den leaders wear the khaki uniform?

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

57. Q. What types of recognition is appropriate for the adult leaders and when should it be given?

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.

58. Q. Can a leader wear more than one Quality Unit Award on their uniform at one time?

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

59. Q. A boy with disabilities has applied for membership in our Pack. Shouldn't be in a special Pack?

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".

60. Q. Can a Cub Scout leader earn two awards at the same time, if he has served in two positions simultaneously?

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.

61. 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 lad. Are there any suggestions for making this easier?

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.

62. Q. When are Cub Scout Leader awards presented?

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.

63. Q. Who can wear the Trained Leader emblem?

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

64. Q. Why should I have to pay an annual registration fee when I volunteer so much of my time?

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.

65. Q. How do you keep records?

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.

66. 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?

A. Because the joining requirements for joining a Wolf den are: 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.

67. Q. Do we get to go camping?

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.

68. Q. Why is training so important?

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.

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

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.

70. Q. What is Arrow of Light?

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

71. Q. What is a den?

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

72. Q. What is the difference between Tigers, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos.

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 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.

73. Q. What are Tiger Cubs?

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.

74. Q. What is the Bobcat?

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

75. Q. What are Wolf Cub Scouts?

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.

76. Q. What are Bear Cub Scouts?

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

77. Q. What are Webelos Scouts?

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.

78. Q. Do I have to attend the entire Training session if I have already been trained in another position?

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

79. Q. Why can't the Cub Scout uniform be worn for fundraisers other than Council events such as popcorn?

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.

80. Q. Why can't my son wear his Cub Day Camp and Resident Camp patches on my uniform?

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.

81. Q. What is a Pack meeting?

A. A monthly meeting of all the dens and pack families for games, skits, presentation of advancement awards, and other recognition's.

82. Q. How long is the pack meeting?

A. A well planned Pack meeting lasts on longer than 1 ½ hours.

83. Q. What are Arrow points?

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.

84. Q. What is an elective?

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

85. Q. As a parent, do I need to attend the Pack meetings?

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

86. Q What is Pow Wow?

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

87. Q. What is Cub Scout day camp?

A. A daytime outdoor activity conducted on council or district basis for Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts.

88. Q. What are Compass points?

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.

89. Q. Who can sign the boys advancement requirements?

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

90. Q. What is Cub Scout Resident Camp?

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

91. Q. What is a Den Aide?

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.

92. Q. What is a Lone Cub Scout?

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.

93. Q. When is Scouting Anniversary Week?

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

94. Q. What is a District?

A. A geographic administrative unit of a council.

95. Q. What is a Council?

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

96. Q. What is a Tour Permit?

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.

97. Q. What is a Volunteer Scouter?

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

98. Q. What is a Professional Scouter?

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.

99. Q. How long will it take?

A. An hour a week…NOT!!!

AND LAST, BUT NOT LEAST…

100. Q. What if I have a question that has not been answered here?

A. If your question has not been asked or some other questions of yours answered, please consult the Cub Scout Leader Handbook.

If you still do not find the information you are seeking, contact your Unit Commissioner, he/she 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 Chairperson 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.)