Ceremonies For Dens and Packs

CEREMONIES
for Dens and Packs

THANKS TO YOU,
MILLIONS OF BOYS
BECOME MORE CONFIDENT
GROW SPIRITUALLY
ARE BETTER CITIZENS
LEARN LIFE SKILLS
HAVE FUN!
WITHOUT YOU, THEY WOULD NOT.
The Boy Scouts of America welcomes your comments and suggestions
on how to improve this resource.
Please e-mail your thoughts to CS.Ceremonies@scouting.org.
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ISBN 978-0-8395-3212-5
1999 Boy Scouts of America
2010 Printing
iii
Chapter 1. Introduction to Ceremonies ........................ 1-11-3
Chapter 2. Den Ceremonies .......................................... 2-12-7
Chapter 3. Staging Pack Meeting Ceremonies............. 3-13-7
Chapter 4. Flag Ceremonies ......................................... 4-14-7
Chapter 5. Pack Meeting Opening Ceremonies ...........5-15-12
Chapter 6. Pack Meeting Closing Ceremonies ............. 6-16-8
Chapter 7. Induction Ceremonies ................................. 7-17-3
Chapter 8. Advancement Ceremonies ......................... 8-18-14
Chapter 9. Transition Ceremonies .................................... 9-19-5
Chapter 10. Other Opportunities for Ceremonies ...... 10-110-5
Chapter 11. Outdoor and Campfire Ceremonies ......... 11-111-3
Chapter 12. Den Chief and Adult Ceremonies ............ 12-112-5
Appendix ........................................................................... A-1A-3
Index..................................................................................... I-1I-6
Cub Scout Ceremonies
for Dens and Packs
CONTENTS
Contents
1-1
Why Do We Use Ceremonies? 1-2
What Kinds of Ceremonies Are Used at
Den Meetings? 1-2
What Kinds of Ceremonies Are Used at
Pack Meetings? 1-2
Tips for Effective Ceremonies, 1-2
Tips for Using This Book, 1-3
Limitations? 1-3
Ceremonies Encourage Advancement, 1-3
What Is Advancement? 1-3
Cub Scout Advancement Goals, 1-3
CHAPTER 1
Introduction to
Ceremonies
Introduction to Ceremonies
1-2
Why Do We Use
Ceremonies?
Ceremonies play an important part in our lives. We have
ceremonies to celebrate birthdays, holidays, graduations,
weddings, religious events, and many other special
occasions. Ceremonies are also an important part of
Cub Scouting.
Why do we have ceremonies in Cub Scouting?
Everyone likes to receive recognition. A den or pack
ceremony helps to recognize a boy in a positive way.
Ceremonies provide meaningful and memorable
highlights in a boys Cub Scouting experience.
Ceremonies help teach the ideals and goals of
Scouting. As boys participate in ceremonies, they
learn by doing.
Ceremonies focus attention not only on boys but also
on families, leaders, and volunteers. All involved earn
recognition for their accomplishments.
Ceremonies should be a regular part of den and pack
meetings. Ceremonies define the beginning and the end
of meetings, and they provide a format for presenting
awards. Using ceremonies stimulates and encourages
increased participation in monthly pack meetings.
Do you remember the best ceremony you ever saw? The
worst? What was the difference between the two expe-
riences? When you can answer these questions, youll
be ready to put what you know into practice and make
a difference in the experience a boy will have when he
receives his Tiger Cub badge or crosses a bridge into
Boy Scouts. Cub Scouts will remember their awards and
how they were recognized for earning them, and fami-
lies will value these occasions as memorable highlights
on the Scouting trail.
What Kinds of Ceremonies
Are Used at Den Meetings?
An opening ceremony signals the beginning of the
den meeting.
The presentation of immediate recognition in fun
and easy ceremonies acknowledges the progression
toward rank advancement.
Denner installation recognizes boy leaders and
the importance of this position in the Cub Scout and
Webelos den.
Special recognition ceremonies mark special
achievements reached both in and out of Scouting.
A closing ceremony brings a quiet, inspirational
end to the den meeting.
What Kinds of Ceremonies
Are Used at Pack Meetings?
Opening ceremonies set the stage for the pack
meeting and can reflect the Core Values.
Flag ceremonies teach boys how to handle and
present the U.S. flag in a respectful way.
Induction ceremonies welcome new boys and
their families into the pack.
Advancement ceremonies celebrate the completion
of requirements for Bobcat, Tiger Cub, Wolf, Bear, and
Webelos ranks, and for the Arrow of Light Award.
Transition ceremonies mark the transitions for
Cub Scouts from Tiger Cub to Wolf, Wolf to Bear,
Bear to Webelos Scout, and Webelos Scout to Boy
Scout. They encourage boys to make the step up to
their next challenge on the Scouting trail.
Closing ceremonies bring the meeting to a close
and send everyone home with inspirational ideas to
think about.
It is also important to remember ceremonies for den
chiefs and adults. These ceremonies include den chief
inductions, Den Chief Service Awards, den chief recog-
nition, leader inductions, leader and family thank-yous,
recognition of leader training, and Cub Scout leader
recognition plan awards. These ceremonies let your
leaders know that you appreciate the commitment they
are making and their efforts toward bringing a quality
program to the boys.
There are many other opportunities for ceremonies. Take
the time to focus on the presentation of Gold Arrow Points,
Silver Arrow Points, Webelos activity badges, Academics
and Sports belt loops and pins, the World Conservation
Award, National Summertime Pack Award, Fun for the
Family Award, National Den Award, Cub Scout Outdoor
Activity Award, Good Turn for America, Emergency
Preparedness Award, and recognition of tenure and service
projects. There are also presentations of Centennial Quality
Unit Awards, pack charters, and special anniversary awards.
Tips for Effective
Ceremonies
When planning your ceremonies, remember these
important points:
Know your audience. Keep your ceremonies
appropriate for boys of Cub Scout age. Simple cer-
emonies are more effective than long, elaborate ones.
Boys this age have a short attention span.
Rotate responsibility among the dens for the
opening, flag, and closing ceremonies at the pack
meeting. When boys are involved, it is easier to hold
their attention during the pack meeting.
1-3
Use a variety of ceremonies to hold the boys and
adults interest. Keep track of which ceremonies you
use and avoid repeating them month after month.
Adapt ceremonies to meet your needs. Packs come in
many different sizes, and boys come with different skill
levels. Younger boys may need to have someone read
their lines while they perform an action or hold a sign.
No ceremony is written in stone. Volunteers have writ-
ten or adapted those presented here to meet the needs
of their packs. Feel free to change them to work for you!
This makes them your ceremonies. Then try using the
All-Purpose, All-Occasion Ceremony Creator in Chapter
10 to get started writing your own ceremonies.
Tips for Using This Book
Use this book as a launching point for your ceremonies.
Photocopy it, scan it, rewrite it! Highlight each persons
part and tape it on the back of the prop that person may
hold or use. Make sure that the print is large enough to
be easily read, even in low-light conditions.
Limitations?
All of us are better at some things than others. Some
boys and adults in your pack may have additional chal-
lenges because of disabilities. When you plan ceremo-
nies, check with adults, leaders, and boys to make sure
they are comfortable with their parts. They will help you
ensure that the ceremonies you use are both appropri-
ate and fun for all to do. Everyone can play a part when
you plan ahead.
Ceremonies Encourage
Advancement
Recognition is important to boys. When they are recog-
nized for their accomplishments, they are motivated to
achieve more. The advancement plan provides fun for
the boys, gives them a sense of personal achievement as
they earn badges, and strengthens family understanding
as adult family members work with boys on advance-
ment projects.
What Is Advancement?
Advancement is one of the methods used to achieve the
aims of Scouting in all phases of the Scouting program
(Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, and Venturing). The aims of
Scouting are character development, citizenship training,
and personal fitness.
Advancement is the process by which a Cub Scout
meets certain requirements and receives recognition.
He progresses from badge to badge, learning new skills
as he goes. Advancement is simply a method or a means
to an end, not an end in itself. Everything that is done
to advance and earn these ranks, from joining until leav-
ing the Scouting program, should be designed to help
the boy have an exciting and meaningful experience
in Scouting.
More information about advancement and recognition
can be found in the Cub Scout Leader Book.
Cub Scout Advancement
Goals
The administration of the Cub Scout advancement pro-
gram is primarily the responsibility of the pack commit-
tee, with the support of the district advancement com-
mittee and the commissioner staff. They work together
to see that the following standards are met.
The pack should maintain detailed advancement
records to ensure that boys are advancing and that
awards are presented promptly to each boy.
Families of Cub Scouts should understand their roles
and responsibilities in their boys advancement. For
the boy to receive maximum benefit and growth
from his achievement, the standard for completion of
any requirement should be based on the Cub Scout
motto, Do Your Best.
Den chiefs (Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts, or Venturers
who help with Cub Scout and Webelos Scout den
meetings) can help stimulate advancement through
example, as well as encourage boys to continue in
the Scouting program.
Presentation of badges or other recognition items
should be a part of each monthly pack meeting.
Badges and other recognitions should be presented
as soon as possible after a boy completes the require-
ments. He should be recognized during a ceremony
at the monthly pack meeting.
Packs and troops should be encouraged to work
together to ensure a smooth transition from the
Webelos den to the Boy Scout troop.
Suggestions for advancement ceremonies may be
found in the Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide,
the Webelos Leader Guide, the Cub Scout Leader
Book, at monthly Cub Scout roundtables, and in
this book.
2-1
Why Do We Have Den Ceremonies? 2-2
Ceremonies
Handshake Opening, 2-2
Tiger Cub Roll Call Opening, 2-2
Cub Scout Promise Opening, 2-2
Tiger Cub Opening Ceremony, 2-2
Orange Bead Recognition, 2-2
White Bead Recognition, 2-3
Black Bead Recognition, 2-3
Tiger Cub Closing, 2-3
Tiger Cub Closing Song, 2-3
Cub Scout/Webelos Scout Light, 2-3
Opening/Closing Song Ceremony, 2-3
Pledge of Allegiance Opening, 2-3
Roll Call Opening, 2-3
Den Flag Opening, 2-3
Law of the Pack/Scout Law Opening, 2-3
Cub Scout Promise/Scout Oath Opening, 2-3
CHAPTER 2
Den Ceremonies
Den Ceremonies
2-2
Cub Scout/Scout Motto Opening, 2-3
Den Yell Opening, 2-3
Cub Scout Shirt Bobcat Recognition, 2-3
Snowflake Immediate Recognition, 2-4
Den Doodle for Advancement, 2-4
Immediate Recognition Balloons, 2-4
Immediate Recognition Fishing, 2-4
Denner and Assistant Denner Installation, 2-4
Denner and Cub Scout Stamp Installation, 2-4
Brotherhood Circle Closing, 2-4
Handshake Closing, 2-4
Leaders Minute Closing, 2-5
Flag Folding Closing, 2-5
Den Yell Recognition Ceremony, 2-5
Friendship Circle Closing, 2-5
Grand Howl Recognition Ceremony, 2-5
Living Circle Closing, 2-5
Meaning of the Cub Scout Promise
or Scout Oath Closing, 2-5
Mountain Climbing Closing Thought, 2-5
My Flag Closing, 2-5
Patriotic Song Closing, 2-5
Square Knot Closing, 2-5
We Meet as Cub Scouts Closing, 2-5
Den Doodles, 2-6
Why Do We Have Den
Ceremonies?
When ceremonies are used in dens, boys have the
opportunity to really understand what is happening
because they play an active part.
A flag ceremony or patriotic opening helps them
learn about their American heritage.
Installing a boy as a denner helps him learn that
responsibilities come with a title and his leadership is
important to the den.
Immediate recognition toward advancement
inspires other boys to work with their families
on achievements.
Opening and closing ceremonies mark the beginning
and end of the den meeting and encourage appropri-
ate behavior during the meeting.
Variety is as important as length. Den ceremonies should
be kept short (no longer than two or three minutes). Use
the planning forms, Tiger Cub Den Meeting Program, Cub
Scout Den Meeting Program, or Webelos Den Meeting
Program, to plan your ceremonies. Remember to keep
them simple and effective.
Handshake Opening
The denner calls the roll, and each member of the den
comes forward and gives him the Cub Scout handshake.
Webelos Scouts could give the Scout handshake.
Tiger Cub Roll Call Opening
As the den meeting host calls roll, each Tiger Cub team
responds with a loud tiger growl.
Cub Scout Promise Opening
The Tiger Cubs form a large circle. Their adult partners
form an outer circle by standing behind their Tiger Cubs.
All say the Cub Scout Promise in unison.
Tiger Cub Opening Ceremony
Each Tiger Cub holds a poster with a letter on it. After he
shouts his letter, his adult partner reads the statement
matching the letter.
ADULT 1: T is for TEAM, the Tiger team, a boy and his
adult partner having fun together.
ADULT 2: I is for INTRODUCTION, showing us what
Cub Scouts is all about.
ADULT 3: G is for GOOD TIMES, having fun together as a
den and with your family.
ADULT 4: E is for EXPLORING, searching out new things
to see and do.
ADULT 5: R is for READY, ready for new adventures
together as a team.
ADULT 6: S is for SHARING, taking time to talk to each
other about the fun things we get to do.
Orange Bead Recognition
Preparation: Put orange activity beads in a cloth pouch.
The narrator is the adult partner who is hosting the
meeting. The narrators Tiger Cub distributes the beads.
NARRATOR: Today, we experienced the fun of complet-
ing a den meeting requirement for the Tiger Cub badge.
In recognition of todays activity, an orange bead will
be added to your Tiger Cub immediate recognition
emblem. (The narrators Tiger Cub partner distributes
one orange bead to all the adult partners. The adult
Den Ceremonies
2-3
partners attach the beads to the boys immediate
recognition emblems.)
White Bead Recognition
Preparation: Put white beads in a small box decorated
to look like a treasure chest.
NARRATOR: Today, we would like to present a special
bead from our den treasure chest to the Tiger Cubs who
have completed a Tiger Cub rank requirement with their
families. Tiger Cub [Name] and his adult partner please
step forward. This Tiger Cub and his family have complet-
ed a required activity together. (Ask the boy to tell about
the activity.) As a memento of the treasure of time your
family spent together, I am presenting a white bead to
your adult partner to attach to your Tiger Cub Immediate
Recognition Emblem. (Lead the den in the den cheer or
a tiger growl.)
Black Bead Recognition
Preparation: Put black beads in a daypack or travel kit.
NARRATOR: Today, we went to [Go See It location]. In
recognition of completion of this requirement toward the
Tiger Cub rank, we would like to present a bead to each
Tiger Cub. This is to remind you of your visit to [Go See It
location]. I am presenting a black bead to your adult part-
ner to attach to your immediate recognition emblem.
Tiger Cub Closing
The Tiger Cubs and their adult partners stand in a circle
and hold hands. In turn, each adult partner tells one
thing the Tiger Cub did since the last meeting to show
that he did his best. End with everyone reciting the Cub
Scout motto.
Tiger Cub Closing Song
Divide the singers into two groups. The first group sings
the first verse. The second group responds with the
second verse. Repeat, singing faster each time. (Tune:
The Muffin Man.)
Can you find a Tiger Cub,
A Tiger Cub, a Tiger Cub?
Can you find a Tiger Cub
With black and orange bold stripes?
Yes, we found a Tiger Cub,
A Tiger Cub, a Tiger Cub.
Yes, we found a Tiger Cub
With black and orange bold stripes.
Cub Scout/Webelos Scout Light
The den leader asks den members to sit on the floor
in a circle and dims the lights. Have a small candle and
larger candle, plus matches, on a table. Flashlights or
battery-operated candles may be used instead of regular
candles and matches.
DEN CHIEF: I will light this small candle. It represents
the goodwill given by one Cub Scout [or Tiger Cub or
Webelos Scout]. See how it shines? The rays from several
Cub Scouts [Tiger Cubs/Webelos Scouts] make a brighter
light. Each Scout lets his light shine by doing his best and
helping other people.
DEN LEADER: Ill light this large candle. This represents
that there is a brighter light that leads us all. Let us always
think first of God, second of others, and finally of ourselves.
Opening/Closing Song Ceremony
Select a song from the Cub Scout Songbook to sing as
your opening or closing. You might also select a song
related to the monthly Core Value or Webelos activity
badge to sing as the opening or closing ceremony.
Pledge of Allegiance Opening
The den gathers in a semicircle or horseshoe formation.
One boy presents the colors (the U.S. flag) at the open
end of the horseshoe. In turn, each boy steps forward,
gives the Cub Scout salute, and steps back. Follow with
the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll Call Opening
The denner calls roll, and the boys respond by naming
an item related to the Core Value or activity badge for
the month.
Den Flag Opening
The den forms a tight circle with the den flag in the
center. Each boy grasps the flagpole with his left hand,
makes the Cub Scout sign with his right hand, and says
the Cub Scout Promise.
Law of the Pack/Scout Law Opening
The den forms a circle, gives the Cub Scout salute, and
says the Law of the Pack. [Webelos Scouts give the Scout
salute and say the Scout Law.]
Cub Scout Promise/Scout Oath Opening
Select a phrase from the Cub Scout Promise and talk
about its meaning. [Webelos Scouts discuss a phrase
from the Scout Oath.]
Cub Scout/Scout Motto Opening
Talk about the meaning of the Cub Scout motto. Say it in
unison. [Webelos Scouts talk about the meaning of the
Scout motto and say it in unison.]
Den Yell Opening
Give your den yell.
Cub Scout Shirt Bobcat Recognition
Preparation: Cut a piece of blue cardboard into the
size and shape of a Cub Scout shirt with pockets on
it and a hand-drawn version of the Bobcat badge (or a
Bobcat badge sticker).
Den Ceremonies
2-4
DEN LEADER: This Cub Scout shirt is very plain and
could belong to anyone. It represents a sense of belong-
ing and friendship in our den. Once you place the
Bobcat badge on this shirt, it shows that our Scout has
new knowledge and skills. Today, we have some den
members who have earned this special recognition.
Congratulations!
Snowflake Immediate Recognition
Preparation: Cut out paper snowflakes and hang an
immediate recognition bead from each one.
DEN LEADER: Snowflakes begin to appear one at a time,
and each one takes its own form. Will [den member]
please come forward. (Present the snowflake.) With
each of you working on achievements, we will soon
make a snowstorm out of our snowflakes. All of us can
encourage one another!
Den Doodle for Advancement
Preparation: Have a bead or other object ready to be
attached to the den doodle for each achievement or
award that will be recognized. After all achievements are
presented, the den leader says the achievement pledge,
and the den members repeat it, line by line.
DEN LEADER: We have a boy (or boys) ready to add
an achievement to his (or their) string on the den
doodle. He has (or they have) been working hard and
completed an achievement (or activity badge) toward
his Wolf (or Tiger Cub or Bear or Webelos) badge.
Congratulations, [Name]! Keep up the great work!
(Present him with a bead or other object to attach to
his area on the den doodle.) While he is adding this to
his string, lets repeat our den achievement pledge:
We, the boys of den [number], (Boys repeat.)
Promise to do our best, (Boys repeat.)
To keep working on our achievements, (Boys repeat.)
And really pass the test. (Boys repeat.)
Immediate Recognition Balloons
Put immediate recognition beads inside balloons and
then blow up the balloons. Let the boys pop the bal-
loons to receive their immediate recognition.
Immediate Recognition Fishing
Make a fishing pole from a stick and string, and attach
a magnet for the hook. Attach a paper clip or a pin to
the immediate recognition beads. Have the boys fish for
their awards.
Denner and Assistant Denner Installation
Preparation: Set a white candle and matches or flash-
light to light it where everyone can see it. Have a denner
shoulder cord ready to present to the chosen boy.
DEN LEADER: Cub Scout/Webelos Scout [Name of new
denner], will you please step forward and light our can-
dle. (The denner lights the candle.) This white candle
represents the spirit of Scouting. It takes team effort to
keep the spirit aliveto keep the candle burning. You
have just been elected to be a member of that team.
As denner, your duties are to assist our den. You will
help record attendance and collect den dues. (These
duties may vary depending on the den.)
During the week, you will set a good example for the
other members of our den by being honest and fair, and
showing true Scouting spirit.
Do you accept these responsibilities?
DENNER: I will do my best.
DEN LEADER: Im happy to present to you the denner
cord, which is to be worn on your left sleeve during
your term of office. Wear it proudly and with honor.
Congratulations!
Cub Scout/Webelos Scout [Name] has been selected
to be our assistant denner. His duty will be to help our
denner in his duties. Do you accept your responsibilities?
ASSISTANT DENNER: I will do my best.
DEN LEADER: We present to you the assistant denner
cord that is to be worn on your left sleeve during your
term of office. Congratulations!
Denner and Cub Scout Stamp Installation
Preparation: Secure a rubber stamp with the Cub
Scout symbol on it and a washable ink stamp pad. Have a
denner shoulder cord ready to present to the chosen boy.
DEN LEADER: (Stamp the right hand of the new
denner.) As our denner, you will have the responsibility
of assisting our den chief and me. Will you do your best
to help our den along the advancement trail and share
with them the work and fun of Scouting?
DENNER: I will do my best. (Present the denner cord.)
Brotherhood Circle Closing
Preparation: Form the den in a brotherhood circle:
Each boy places his left arm around the shoulder of the
boy on his left and his right arm around the shoulder of
the boy on his right.
DEN LEADER or DEN CHIEF: Now may the Great Master
of all Scouts be with us until we meet again.
Handshake Closing
Have the boys give the Cub Scout handshake to the den
leader and den chief and then leave quietly. Another version
is to have the boys form a circle and pass the handshake
from one to another around the circle until it reaches the
boy who started it. As each boy receives the handshake, he
silently makes a wish and pledges to do his best.
Tiger Cubs and Cub Scouts use the Cub Scout hand-
shake. Webelos Scouts use the Scout handshake.
Den Ceremonies
2-5
Leaders Minute Closing
This is a closing inspirational thought. It can be a brief
story about the Cub Scout Promise, the Scout Oath, the
Law of the Pack, the Scout Law, the motto, or something
patriotic. It could reflect ideals such as being kind to ani-
mals and people, showing sportsmanlike behavior, or par-
ticipating in school activities. It is told without moralizing.
Flag Folding Closing
Have three boys fold the flag while the other boys stand
respectfully in a semicircle.
Den Yell Recognition Ceremony
Den members form a circle around the den flag. They
give their den yell in honor of those den members who
completed an achievement or elective this month.
Friendship Circle Closing
Den leaders and members form a friendship circle:
Cross arms with right arm over left and grasp the hands
of people on each side. They then sing a closing song.
Grand Howl Recognition Ceremony
Cub Scouts form a circle around the person in whose
honor the grand howl is to be given. This may be a visi-
tor, the den chief, a new den member, or a Cub Scout
who has earned the respect of the wolves. Each boy
squats, makes the Cub Scout sign with both hands, and
touches them to the ground between his feet. Then, like
young wolves, the Cub Scouts raise their heads and give
a long howl. As the last word is yelled, everyone jumps
to his feet, and raising his right hand high above his
head, gives the Cub Scout sign.
DEN MEMBERS: Akela! Welldoourbest!
Living Circle Closing
Den leaders and den members form a close circle and
turn to their right, each placing his left hand into the
center of the circle, palm facing downward. Each person
grasps the thumb of the person behind him, making a
complete circle with the group. Everyones right hand is
held straight up in the Cub Scout sign. One version is to
pump joined hands up and down seven times as all say,
Akela! Welldoourbest! You can also use the Cub
Scout Promise, Law of the Pack, Cub Scout motto, or your
own personal words in place of this chant.
Meaning of the Cub Scout Promise
or Scout Oath Closing
Den members form a circle, and each person says one
sentence of the Cub Scout Promise and then explains
what this sentence means to him. Webelos dens could
use the Scout Oath.
Mountain Climbing Closing Thought
Preparation: Ask the boys to sit in a circle with the
den leader and close their eyes.
DEN LEADER: Picture a very high mountain. It is beautiful
but very dangerous. It has slippery glaciers and high rocky
places you can climb only with special equipment and
with help from other people. Mountain climbers depend
on each other. They must be able to trust their friends at
the other end of the rope. When you pick your friends,
think about whether this is a person you could trust at
the end of that rope. Lets have a moment of silence as we
think about the good friends we have chosen.
My Flag Closing
Right before the ending, the den leader asks each boy to
write a sentence about what the U.S. flag means to him.
For the closing ceremony, read the statements.
Patriotic Song Closing
Den members form the den in a circle around the U.S.
flag. Everyone salutes and sings America, God Bless
America, or another patriotic song. (See the Cub Scout
Songbook for ideas.)
Square Knot Closing
Preparation: Give each boy a 3-foot section of rope.
The boys tie the rope with a square knot to each others
ropes to form a complete circle. They all lean back care-
fully to form a taut circle.
DEN LEADER: You are part of a group of close friends, held
together by the square knota symbol of friendship.
We Meet as Cub Scouts Closing
Preparation: Have the boys form a circle.
DEN LEADER: We meet as Cub Scouts [Tiger Cubs,
Webelos Scouts], we part as friends, as now we leave,
our meeting ends.
Let this circle be a token of friendship, as Akela guides
us home.
Den Ceremonies
2-6
Den Doodles
Many dens use a den doodle to encourage advancement.
A den doodle is an emblem, figure, or other object that
visually records the progress of the boys in a Tiger Cub,
Cub Scout, or Webelos den. Each boy can add some-
thing to his string on the den doodle as he completes
advancement requirements.
The doodles are the most fun when the boys help make
them, after deciding on a theme that fits their den. No
two dens make doodles that are alike. Each one is dis-
tinctive and has the dens number, a place for each boys
name, and a cord or thong for his record.
Buttons, corks, paper beads, spools, bottle tops, wooden
beads, pasta, cutouts, and shells are a few of the items
used as symbols of progress. Each symbol, or device,
is usually identified with the name of the recognition,
such as Wolf Achievement 1, and the date. The boys will
look forward to hanging devices on the doodle as they
complete achievements and electives and earn Webelos
activity badges.
Additional devices can be included to recognize atten-
dance, wearing the complete uniform, remembering
to bring their books to den meetings, or other desired
behavior. Beads can be added to commemorate special
events during the year. You are limited only by your
imagination.
Doodles can be either a table model or floor model. The
base can be a coffee can filled with plaster or a device
designed using inexpensive plastic pipe and connectors.
More examples of den doodles are found in the Cub
Scout Leader Book and the Cub Scout Leader How-To
Book.
When an addition is made to the den doodle, acknowl-
edge it with a short ceremony at the den meeting. Take
the den doodle to pack meetings and proudly display it
next to the den flag.
Use your imagination in creating a den doodle. Scrounge
for inexpensive supplies. Look for design ideas in chil-
drens coloring books or in clip-art collections. Let the
boys choose the design of their den doodle.
For the base of your den doodle:
1. Plan a wooden removable base.
2. Mix concrete in a coffee can, cover pole with foil
and insert while concrete is wet. Let the concrete
harden and then remove the covered pole.
3. Use inexpensive plastic PVC pipe and connectors to
create a removable base.
Den Ceremonies
2-7
Colored cardboard or wooden disks can be added for
each achievement or elective completed. Use differ-
ent colors for each rank.
Wooden coat hanger
Thread spools
PAPER BEADS: Cut colorful magazine
pages into long triangles. Dip in a thin
solution of glue and water and roll on
dowels or straws. Let them dry, then
remove from the dowels or straws. Boys
love this messy job!
Dowel
Wood or cardboard
Table or floor height
Den Ceremonies
3-1
Planning Your Pack Ceremonies, 3-2
Pack Meeting Layout, 3-2
Den Award and Appreciation Ideas, 3-2
Pack Ceremony Equipment, 3-3
Scouting Clip Art to Use in Ceremonies, 3-5
Music in Ceremonies, 3-7
Staging Pack Meeting Ceremonies
CHAPTER 3
3-2
Planning Your Pack
Ceremonies
Think of your pack meetings as an opportunity to use the
magic of ceremonies to instill the values of Cub Scouting
in the hearts of boys and adults. Youll have several
opportunities to do this throughout your meeting:
Flag ceremony
Opening ceremony
Inducting new families into the pack
Advancement ceremony
Transition ceremony
Other opportunities
Closing ceremony
Youll find a chapter devoted to each of these in this
book. The pack committee will want to use the annual
pack program planning conference to outline the Core
Values to be spotlighted in ceremonies each month and
for timing major events such as transitions and a pine-
wood derby. At the monthly pack leaders meeting, one
may fill in the details of which ceremonies will be used
and who is responsible for doing them. The Pack Meeting
Planning Sheet in the Cub Scout Leader Book will help
with this process. Just remember to use a variety of
ceremonies to hold the interest of both boys and adults.
Pack Meeting Layout
The layout of your pack meetings will depend on your
facilities. It is important for everyone to be able to see
what is going on in the front of the room. When boys
can see and hear what is taking place, they will be less
easily distracted. Boys are inexperienced at projecting
their voices, so the closer they are to the audience, the
more likely it is that everyone will be able to hear what
they are saying in ceremonies and skits.
Seat boys by dens and have families sit in the same area.
Make sure that your aisles are wide enough for every-
one to maneuver through, including those with physical
disabilities. For the same reason, consider carefully the
use of stages, which may discourage the participation
of boys or adults of all ages who have difficulty walking
up and down stairs. Darkened circles in the diagram are
boys; remaining circles are family members.
Den Award and
Appreciation Ideas
At your pack meetings, use a simple, homemade award
to recognize the den that did a community service proj-
ect or the adult who organized your school roundup
night. This is a positive way to recognize and thank the
people in your pack.
Be creative and attach one of the following items to a
string or a piece of wood, cardboard, or leather to cre-
ate a den award or thank you. Ask the den or person to
come forward and make a brief statement about what
they accomplished.
Keep your eyes open for special opportunities that give
you the chance to tell people you appreciate their efforts.
Airplane Really helped us fly
Antacid Added fizz to
Bag of tea Tea-riffic job
Ball Being on the ball
Adhesive bandage Helped fix up
Baseball and bat Pitches in where needed
Battery Charged us up
Bees Busy bees
Berry (wax or plastic) Berry good job
Bottle of glue Stuck to it
Burnt piece of toast Well done award
Chalkboard Chalked up a great
Cheese grater Grate job (great job)
Clock Found extra time to
Clothespin Hanging in there
Coat hanger Hanging in there
Compass Leads the way
Eyes (plastic wiggly) Set the example for us
Fire engine Came to the rescue
Fishing pole Really caught the spirit
Flashlight Shining example or lights the way
Frog Hopped to it
Glue stick Stuck to it
Golf tee Tee-rific job
Gum Thanks for chew-sing
to do a great job
Hat Hats off to
Heart, gold Heart of gold when
Heart, red Shows great heart by
3-3
Key Key to success
Kite Flying high
Light bulb Good ideas
Lion Roaring success
Magic wand Worked magic in
Magnet Stuck with it
Marbles in a bag Marble-ous job
Million dollars Thanks a million,
(play money) worth a million
Needle and thread Kept us in stitches
Newspaper bundle Thanks a bundle
Packet of seeds Helping the pack grow
Pair of glasses See things clearly
Pencil Write on (right on!)
Plastic egg Good egg by helping the pack
Playing cards Great hand, cant be beat
Puzzle Knows how to tackle challenges
Recipe All the ingredients for
Red or gold reflector Reflects Cub Scout spirit when
Right shoe or footprint On the right foot
Ruler or tape measure Really measures up
Sandpaper Smoothed the way to
Scissors Cut out for
Seal Seal of approval
Shovel Really dug into the job
Small horn Music to our ears when
Small notepad Most noteworthy
Spaceship Out of this world
Spark plug Showed extra spark when
Spice Really spiced things up
Sponge Soaks up all the
T Square Squared away
Tape dispenser Stuck to it
Tent stake Stake in future
Top You are tops at
Watering can Help the pack grow
Whale Whale of a job
Wire whisk Unbeatable at
Wooden spoons, Blue and gold banquet chair
blue and gold
World globe For the worlds best
Pack Ceremony Equipment
The use of equipmentcandleholders, boards that
show ranksadds color and life to your ceremonies. If
your pack creates several different setups, you will be
able to vary the ceremonies you use. Make sure that all
props are:
Easy to set up
Easy to store (can be taken apart or folded)
Inexpensive
Adaptable for use in several different ceremonies
In good working order
The items you might want to have on hand include
A ceremonial board that holds candles or lights (up
to six candles)
An emblem for each Cub Scout rank that is large
enough to be seen from the back of the room
An artificial campfire
A log split lengthwise with several holes drilled for
candles
Extra candles and candleholders
A spotlight or large flashlight
A bridgeeither several poles connected with rope
to suggest a bridge or pallets used to construct a
bridge and railing
Freestanding poles that hold each of the Cub Scout
ranks to suggest a Cub Scout trail. These can be
linked with rope.
If your location prohibits, or you prefer not to use
candles, adapt the ceremonies and props to use battery-
operated candles (usually available at Christmas), glow
sticks, penlights, or flashlights hooded with colored
cellophane. You can also replace candleholders shown
on props with large outdoor Christmas lights. If you are
using new candles, always light them ahead of time.
Cub Scouts love campfires. While an outdoor campfire
at every pack meeting is probably too much of a good
thing, you can work an artificial campfire into some of
your indoor meetings, too.
Additional ideas for ceremony equipment can be found
in the Cub Scout Leader Book and the Cub Scout
Leader How-To Book.
Large outdoor Christmas lights can be used to wire
these props with lights to replace the candles shown.
3-4
Substitute battery-operated candles or penlights as an
alternative. Or use large outdoor Christmas lights with
cardboard tubes to create electric candles.
Use a recessed lighting fixture placed on its side.
Attach cutout silhouette of rank being presented.
Cut simple block letters from 2-inch-thick pine. Drill
holes in tops of blocks for candles or wire for lights.
CUB SCOUT TRAIL: Mount
large Cub Scout badges on
freestanding holders.
Cover flashlights with
cellophane hoods to
replace lighted
colored candles.
ADVANCEMENT LADDER
1. Ladder rungs each measure
1
4-by-3-by-18 inches
and are painted yellow with blue letters.
2. Uprights are 1-by-1
1
2-by-41 inches and are
painted blue. They are spaced 5 inches apart.
3. The base is 2-by-10-by-24 inches wide. The ladder
is attached with 3-by-3-inch corner braces.
4. Spring-type clothes-
pins are painted in
den colors with the
boys name
painted in a con-
trasting color.
5. The pack number
can be painted on
a diamond at the
top of the ladder.
MAGIC CANDLES can be very effective when they are
used in ceremonies. As the candles burn down, they
drip blue and gold wax. To make magic candles, drill
1
4-inch diameter holes every 2 inches on a wide white
candle. Place scrapings
of blue and gold crayons
in the holes (but not on
top of each other). Melt
paraffin and whip it with
an eggbeater. Cover the
candle with this whipped
paraffin, using a fork to
give the candle a rough
decoration. Let the candle
harden before handling.
3-5
Scouting Clip Art to Use
in Ceremonies
You can use several methods to take advantage of these
graphics.
Enlarge them on a photocopier. Use marking pens to
add color to your copies or print the same photo on
each color needed for a badge. Cut and paste to cre-
ate the final multicolored badge.
Copy them onto a transparency and use an overhead
projector to enlarge them to the desired size. Trace
the design onto a paper taped on the wall.
Mount your copies on cardboard, foam core, or wood,
or laminate them for use in ceremonies. If you lami-
nate them, you will want to spray them with a non-
glare finish so they can be seen from all areas of the
room without reflections from the overhead lights.
Trace your designs onto fabric for banners and table
covers.
Webelos badge logo
Webelos badge logo
Wolf badge logo
Bear badge logo
Bobcat badge logo
Tiger Cub badge logo
3-6
Arrow of Light
Compass Points Emblem
Den Chief emblem Den Chief shoulder cord
Centennial Quality Unit Award
World Conservation Award
National Summertime Pack Award pin
Boy Scouts of America Universal emblem
3-7
Music in Ceremonies
Using music in a ceremony creates an additional dimen-
sion of sound and makes the event more memorable.
However, using music successfully requires additional
planning, no matter what form of music is used. Always
make sure that whatever source you are using, the
music and lyrics are appropriate for a Cub Scout audi-
ence and exemplify the Cub Scout Promise and the
positive values of Cub Scouting.
Prerecorded Music
A wealth of music in every form, from jazz to folk and
classical to rock, is available that can be adapted for cer-
emonies. Patriotic recordings can be used for openings
and closings. Instrumental arrangements can be used as
background music for advancement ceremonies. Vocal
recordings can be used to lead group singing.
Test your sound system before the day of the event to
be sure it will be adequate.
Prepare for all contingencies. Carry an extension
cord, electric plug adapter, and spare batteries
if necessary.
If you are involved in the ceremony, have an assistant
handle the music. Make sure your assistant knows
exactly what he or she is expected to do.
Recheck all equipment before the arrival of Cub
Scouts and their families, including cueing up the
music to the correct starting point as well as setting
the proper volume for the group.
If the group is to sing along with the recording, make
sure the lyrics are clear and understandable and that
the speed is appropriate.
Guest Musicians
Explore your communitys resources for performers who
can provide live accompaniment or featured numbers.
Your list might include Cub Scouts who are taking music
lessons, parents, a Boy Scout troop bugler, music teachers,
and staff or students from a schools music department.
Their music adds a festive touch to a holiday sing-along or
a blue and gold banquet. It also can add impact to special
advancements and transitions.
Make your arrangements well in advance.
Send a written confirmation of the exact time, the
location (including a map), the group size, and the
name and phone number of the contact person in
the pack.
Know what equipment and setup the musicians
require, such as a microphone, piano, and music
stand. Be sure everything is available and in good
working order before the performance date.
If possible, arrange for a rehearsal if it is a special event.
Contact the musicians again several days before
their performance.
Have a plan B in mind in case an unforeseen circum-
stance prevents their performance.
Introduce the guest musicians to the group.
Show your appreciation with some sort of token,
such as a special applause and perhaps a certificate.
4-1
When We Should Have Flag Ceremonies and
Say the Pledge of Allegiance, 4-2
Flag Ceremony Planning, 4-2
Create Your Own Opening Ceremony
With the U.S. Flag, 4-2
Flag Ceremony Comments, 4-2
Introductory Statements for the Pledge of Allegiance, 4-2
Standard Indoor Flag Ceremony Using Flag Stands, 4-3
Standard Outdoor Flag Ceremony Using a Flagpole, 4-3
Presentation of ColorsIndoors, 4-4
Retiring of ColorsIndoors, 4-5
Retiring Worn-Out Flags, 4-5
Presentation of ColorsFlagpole, 4-6
Retiring of ColorsFlagpole, 4-6
Diagrams of Flag Positions, 4-7
Flag Ceremonies
CHAPTER 4
Flag Ceremonies
4-2
When We Should Have Flag
Ceremonies and Say the
Pledge of Allegiance
Most den and pack meetings should include the Pledge
of Allegiance to the U.S. flag. It is appropriate to have a
presentation of the colors and the Pledge of Allegiance
at the beginning of every pack meeting, with the retire-
ment of the colors at the conclusion. On occasion,
especially in den meetings, you can vary the opening
ceremony and not use the flag. In pack meetings, you
might start out with the presentation of the colors in the
beginning of your pack meeting and reserve the Pledge
of Allegiance for later during the opening ceremony or
even during the closing ceremony. Patriotic ceremonies
should be meaningful and inspirational for boys.
Flag Ceremony Planning
When you take the time to plan ahead, the Cub Scouts
will be prepared for a successful experience.
When younger Cub Scouts are responsible for a flag
ceremony, make sure the flags are not too heavy for
the boys to carry.
Check the ceiling height beforehand to determine
whether the flags will clear it. If they wont, post the
colors before the meeting.
Rehearse the ceremony. Make sure everyone knows
his part and walking route.
Create Your Own Opening
Ceremony With the U.S. Flag
Use the following suggestions to make your ceremony
effective:
Have the color guard post the colors and retreat.
Delay the Pledge of Allegiance until after your open-
ing ceremony.
Post the flag, and then create a slight breeze with an
electric fan.
Shine a flashlight or spotlight on the flag.
Follow the flag with a flashlight or spotlight while
the color guard walks in.
Use background music.
Prerecord music and play it, making it louder or
softer as your ceremony progresses.
Use songs that are appropriate for the occasion.
The Star-Spangled Banner Seasonal songs
America, the Beautiful Marching songs
Youre a Grand Old Flag Spiritual songs
God Bless America
Flag Ceremony Comments
Keep in mind the following guidelines:
When in uniform, stand at attention and salute with
your right hand.
When not in uniform, stand at attention and place
your right hand over your heart. You should remove
your nonuniform hat.
When in uniform, with your head covered or
uncovered, either indoors or outdoors, stand at
attention and salute with your right hand when the
U.S. national anthem is played, the colors are raised
or lowered, the Pledge of Allegiance is recited, or the
U.S. flag passes by in a parade.
The reason the color guards do not participate in
saluting, singing, or saying the Pledge of Allegiance
with the group is because their job is to guard the
flag at all times. They should salute after the U.S. flag
is posted.
The U.S. flag is posted on the left, as you look toward
the front.
Any person can write to his or her U.S. senator or
U.S. representative, and for a reasonable fee receive
a flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol in
Washington, D.C.
For more information regarding the U.S. flag, refer to
the booklet Your Flag.
You can find additional information on the U.S. flag
from current encyclopedias and from veterans groups.
Make sure that you include all boys in your flag cere-
monies at different times of the year. Boys with physi-
cal disabilities can proudly act as narrator or even
flag bearers when adults see these events as possibili-
ties instead of barriers.
Introductory Statements for
the Pledge of Allegiance
Often, the Pledge of Allegiance is introduced with a
phrase that helps set the stage and turns our thoughts
toward the meaning behind the words. Use the follow-
ing ideas, but often the most effective statement is one
that comes from your heart.
Sometimes we hear people say the phrase, One
nation, (pause), under God. When this phrase was
added by House Joint Resolution 243 and approved
by President Dwight D. Eisenhower on June 14, 1954,
it was added without a comma or pause after the
word nation. The correct phrasing is, One nation
under God.
Thirteen stripes and 50 starsthis phrase can only
refer to our U.S. flag. Let us remember the
history behind the Stars and Stripes as we say the
Pledge of Allegiance.
Flag Ceremonies
4-3
Long may it wavelet us remember the history of
our flag as we pledge our allegiance to our flag.
As we salute our flag, let us remember the words
from the Americans Creed:
It is my duty to my country
To love it;
To support its Constitution;
To obey its laws;
To respect its flag; and
To defend it against all enemies.
The red in our flag stands for courage and bravery.
Today, as we salute our flag, let us remember the men
and women in the armed forces who are serving our
country and us.
For more than 200 years, our flag has been the
emblem of liberty for generation after generation of
Americans. Let us look at it with pride as we pledge
our allegiance to it.
Our flag is bright with cheer, brilliant with courage,
and firm with faith. Let us think about these things as
we pledge our allegiance.
We, the peoplethat is what our flag represents.
Together, let us say the Pledge of Allegiance.
For the opportunities our country offers to the youth
of America, let us say the Pledge of Allegiance to our
flag, the emblem of our nation.
The flag is a symbol of our country. Let us join
together in saluting our flag and saying the Pledge of
Allegiance.
Where our flag flies, there is freedom. Join me now in
expressing our allegiance to the flag.
On June 14, 1777, Congress approved the first official
United States flag. Throughout our country, we now
observe June 14 as Flag Day. Let us remember that
special day as we pledge our allegiance.
Many creative and inventive people have contributed
to the growth of our country. Long ago, our ances-
tors never dreamed we would have automobiles, air-
planes, television, computers, space shuttles, or many
other things that we take for granted. It took many
different people who used their individual talents to
make our country grow. Let us think of these people
as we pledge allegiance to our flag.
O beautiful for spacious skies, for amber waves
of grain, for purple mountain majesties, above the
fruited plain! Our country is beautiful, from the his-
toric treasures of New England on the East Coast, to
the deep blue lakes of the Central United States, to
(add something personal about your area), to the
towering mountains of the West. We are proud of our
beautiful America and pledge ourselves to keeping it
beautiful. There is beauty in each of our 50 states, and
our United States flag represents those states. Stand
and join me in the Pledge of Allegiance.
America is made up of people from many differ-
ent nationsincluding the nations of the American
Indianwho have brought with them their ideals,
customs, and talents. America is often called a melt-
ing pot because it is a blend of so many different
people and cultures. As we pledge allegiance to our
flag, let us think of all the different people who have
created our country as it is today.
Behold the emblem of our countryour flag. May it
always represent the highest ideals of the American
people. May its stars and stripes always support
democracy in America. Stand and join me in the
Pledge of Allegiance.
We have the responsibility to care for our beautiful
world. We enjoy doing things together as families.
In Scouting, we have many opportunities to work
and play together. Today, as we salute the flag that
represents millions of American families, let us be
thankful for our own families and the beautiful world
in which we live. Stand and join me in the Pledge of
Allegiance.
Growing up is an adventure. Every day brings new
and exciting things into our lives. Scouting opens
many new doors for boys as they develop in charac-
ter, personal fitness, and citizenship. As we salute the
United States flag, lets think about all the adventures
that are ahead of us, and silently promise to do our
best. Let us stand and pledge allegiance to our flag.
Standard Indoor Flag
Ceremony Using Flag Stands
Preparation: Put flag stands in place at the front of the
room. Looking to the front, the U.S. flag stand is on the
left. Flag guards are in the back of the room holding the
flag. They have already checked to make sure that the
flags fit in the flag holders and that the flags clear the
ceiling.
Personnel: Narrator and color guard
Materials: U.S. flag and a pack flag
Standard Outdoor Flag
Ceremony Using a Flagpole
Preparation: Check the flag against the rope to make
sure the attachments line up before the flag ceremony.
It helps to lower the loops to the base of the flagpole so
it is ready for the ceremony. Rewind the cord to hold in
place.
Personnel: Narrator and color guard
Materials: U.S. flag and a pack flag
Flag Ceremonies
4-4
Presentation of ColorsIndoors
Narrator Actions
Attention. Will the audience please rise? (Pause.) The color guard waits in the back of the room for
the audience to stand and become quiet.
Color guard, advance. The pack flag guards and bearer are on the left, and the
U.S. flag guards and bearer are on the right. With the U.S.
flag in the lead, they walk in and cross so that the U.S. flag
will be on the left side of the room when you look toward
the front. The bearers and guards take their positions near
the flag stands, facing the audience and holding the flags
vertically.
Hand salute. Everyone, with the exception of the flag bearers and
guards, salutes.
Please repeat with me the Pledge of Allegiance.
(All join in.)
The bearers and guards stand at attention and continue to
hold the flags. The pack flag is lowered slightly so that the
U.S. flag stands taller. The U.S. flag guards and bearer
and pack flag guards and bearer do not salute or say
Two. The pack drops its salute. The pack flag is raised to its ver-
tical position again.
Color guard, post the colors. The pack flag is placed in its stand. Its guards and bearer
step back into place. The U.S. flag is then posted. Its guards
and bearer salute it and step back into place.
Color guard, dismissed. The U.S. flag guard leads the procession to the back of the
room with the narrator following last.
Comments:
When the U.S. flag is carried with another banner (such as the pack flag), it should always be on its marching right
in the procession.
If there is only a narrow aisle, the procession follows this order in single file: U.S. flag guard, U.S. flag bearer, pack
flag bearer, pack flag guard.
Flag Ceremonies
4-5
Retiring of ColorsIndoors
Narrator Actions
Will the audience please rise? (Pause.) The color guard waits in the back of the room for the audi-
ence to rise and become quiet.
Color guard, advance. The U.S. flag guard and bearer and pack flag guard and
bearer walk down the aisle and to the flags. They stand
behind the flags, facing the audience.
Color guard, salute. The guards and bearers salute.
Color guard, retire the colors. The U.S. flag is removed first (just slightly ahead of the
pack flag).
Hand salute. Everyone, with the exception of the guards and bearers,
salutes. The U.S. flag stays on its marching right as the guards
and bearers proceed down the aisle to the rear of the room.
Two. Everyone drops the salute.
Flag Ceremonies
Retiring Worn-Out Flags
As a Good Turn, Scouts can volunteer to help replace faded and tattered flags in their communities with new
ones and to conduct flag retirement ceremonies for those that have been taken down. A national flag that is worn
beyond repair may be burned in a fire. The ceremony should be conducted with dignity and respect, and the flag
burned completely to ashes.
4-6
Presentation of ColorsFlagpole
Narrator Actions
Attention. Will the audience please rise. (Pause.) The color guard waits in the rear for the audience to
become quiet.
Color guard, advance. The U.S. flag guards and bearer walk in and take their
positions near the flagpole, facing the audience.
Color guard, prepare to raise the colors. The line is unwound. The flag is unfolded and attached to
the rope.
Hand salute. Everyone, with the exception of the U.S. flag guards
and bearer, salutes. Then the flag is raised quickly to the
top of the pole, and the cord is wound back in place.
Color guard, raise the colors.
Please repeat with me the Pledge of Allegiance. The U.S. flag guards and bearer stand at attention.
(All join in.) The U.S. flag guards and bearer do not salute or say
Two. The pack drops its salute.
Color guard, salute. The U.S. flag guards and bearer salute.
Color guard, dismissed. The color guard retreats to the back of the group.
Retiring of ColorsFlagpole
Narrator Actions
Attention. Will the audience please rise. (Pause.) The color guard waits in the rear for the audience to
become quiet.
Color guard, advance. The U.S. flag guards and bearer walk to the flagpole. They
stand behind the flag, facing the audience.
Color guard, salute. The U.S. flag guards and bearer salute.
Color guard, prepare to retire the colors. They unwind the cord and wait.
Hand salute. Everyone, with the exception of the U.S. flag guards
and bearer, salutes. The U.S. flag is quickly lowered.
Two. As soon as the flag touches the hands of the guard, this
command is given. Everyone drops the salute. The U.S. flag
guard and bearer remove the flag from the rope and fold it
correctly.
Color guard, retreat. They retreat to the back of the group.
Flag Ceremonies
4-7
Diagrams of Flag Positions
Flag Ceremonies
5-1
Why Are Opening Ceremonies Important? 5-2
Ceremonies
A-M-E-R-I-C-A, 5-2
AmericaThe Song, 5-2
Building a Flag, 5-2
Discover America, 5-3
Duties as a Citizen, 5-3
Explanation of the Pledge of Allegiance, 5-3
Flag of America, 5-4
Flag Story, 5-4
I Am an American, 5-4
I Asked Myself a Question, 5-4
I Believe, 5-4
Old Glory, 5-5
Our American Heritage, 5-5
Our Country Is Different, 5-5
Our Flag, 5-5
Talking Flag, 5-6
CHAPTER 5
Pack Meeting
Opening Ceremonies
Pack Meeting Opening Ceremonies
5-2
Voting, 5-6
Achieve, 5-6
Baden-Powell, 5-6
Badges of Cloth, 5-6
What Is Tiger Cub Fun?, 5-6
Cub Scouting Is Many Things, 5-7
Cub Scout Pocket, 5-7
Cub Scout Spirit, 5-7
Fire Prevention, 5-7
Garden, 5-8
Knights, 5-8
Magic, 5-8
My Backyard, 5-8
Ships of Scouting, 5-9
Neighborhood, 5-9
Seven Seas, 5-9
Shape Up for Fitness, 5-9
Space, 5-9
Spirit of Baden-Powell, 5-10
Story of the Blue and Gold, 5-10
Woodworking, 5-10
Cub Scout Promise in Sign Language, 5-10
Why Are Opening
Ceremonies Important?
The opening ceremony at your pack meeting will set the
stage for everything that follows. It can reinforce the pur-
poses of Cub Scouting for both boys and adults. We have
the opportunity to help make the Cub Scout ideals mean-
ingful through the words and pictures of our ceremonies.
You can also use the opening ceremony to develop
the Core Value being highlighted that month. You will
find ideas for Core Valuesrelated ceremonies in the
Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide and at Cub Scout
roundtables.
Be aware of physical and/or mental disability challenges
in your pack. Be sensitive to the fact that all boys and
adults may not be able to, or even want to, read lines
out loud. Adapt ceremonies in a sensitive way to involve
everyone at the level they will feel comfortably involved.
A-M-E-R-I-C-A
Preparation: Make seven cards with one letter on each:
A, M, E, R, I, C, and A.
CUB SCOUT 1: A is for all people in our land.
CUB SCOUT 2: M is for the many that lent a hand.
CUB SCOUT 3: E is for equality of race, color, and creed.
CUB SCOUT 4: R is respect for all peoples needs.
CUB SCOUT 5: I is for ideasnew ways to know
our neighbor.
CUB SCOUT 6: C is for caring and sharing in labor.
CUB SCOUT 7: A is the allegiance we feel for our land.
CUB SCOUT 8: Stand now and pledge with heart and hand.
AmericaThe Song
Preparation: Preparing for this ceremony helps boys
earn Wolf Elective 11a. The pack can sing both verses of
America for the opening, or they can sing the first verse
for the opening and the second verse for the closing.
CUB SCOUT 1: What makes our country so special?
CUB SCOUT 2: America is special because it is a land of
liberty. Liberty means freedom.
CUB SCOUT 3: We can choose how we do our duty to
God. We can say what we think in public. We have free
education for all.
CUB SCOUT 4: We can choose our own jobs. And we
have civil rights, like voting and trial by jury.
CUB SCOUT 5: A special song was written to celebrate
the freedoms we have. In 1831, Samuel Smith wrote the
words to America for a childrens Independence Day
program in Boston.
CUB SCOUT 6: The first verse of the song tells of the
love we have for our country because of the freedom
we enjoy.
CUB SCOUT 7: The last verse is a prayer asking God to
protect our free country.
CUB SCOUT 8: Stand and join us in singing America.
Building a Flag
Preparation: Conceal a U.S. flag inside a large bowl or
pot. The Cub Scouts will use a long spoon to stir the pot
as they add pieces of red paper, blue paper, white paper,
white stars, a needle, and some thread.
NARRATOR: Today, we have a special treat, and were
going to follow this recipe, the greatest in the land.
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First, we put in a heaping cup of red for courage. (Cub
Scout 1 puts pieces of red paper into the pot.)
Well add blue for truth, justice, and loyalty. (Cub Scout
2 puts pieces of blue paper into the pot.)
Well also need some white for purity or cleanliness of
thought, word, and deed, along with some stars. (Cub
Scout 3 pours in pieces of white paper, and Cub Scout
4 pours in white stars.)
Finally, well add a needle and thread. The steel of the
needle represents the strength of our nation. The thread
ties us all together as Americans. (Cub Scout 5 puts in
the needle and thread.)
When you combine these things, you come up with our
flag, Old Glory. (Cub Scouts 6 and 7 remove the flag
from the pot, open and hold it.) May it always fly with
honor and respect.
Discover America
Materials: Map of the United States, potato or ear of
corn, silhouette of George Washington, paper, feather
pen, photo of Abraham Lincoln, a kite and key, light bulb,
and a photo of an astronaut
CUB SCOUT 1: (Carrying a map of the United States.)
Many Americans helped decide our countrys fate.
CUB SCOUT 2: (Carrying a potato and/or an ear of
corn.) Our native people developed plants that we still
use for food and in medicines today.
CUB SCOUT 3: (Carrying a silhouette of George
Washington.) As our first president, George Washington
was great.
CUB SCOUT 4: (Carrying parchment and a quill pen
or feather.) The Declaration of Independence, Thomas
Jefferson did write.
CUB SCOUT 5: (Carrying a picture of Abraham
Lincoln.) Abraham Lincoln freed the slaves after
a terrible fight.
CUB SCOUT 6: (Carrying the kite and key.) Benjamin
Franklin shared many ideas bright.
CUB SCOUT 7: (Carrying a light bulb.) Thomas Edison
invented the electric light.
CUB SCOUT 8: (Carrying a photo of an astronaut.)
Eagle Scout Neil Armstrong placed on the moon our
own red, white, and blue.
CUB SCOUT 1: Stand and renew our Pledge of
Allegiance so true.
Duties as a Citizen
Preparation: Create a large poster with the Citizenship
Pledge written on it or hand out individual copies of
the pledge to each person as everyone arrives at the
pack meeting.
CUB SCOUT 1: As citizens of the United States, we have
duties that we must fulfill.
CUB SCOUT 2: As a citizen, it is my duty to obey the laws.
CUB SCOUT 3: As a citizen, it is my duty to respect the
rights of others.
CUB SCOUT 4: As a citizen, it is my duty to stay
informed on issues of local and national government.
CUB SCOUT 5: As a citizen, it is my duty to vote
in elections.
CUB SCOUT 6: As a citizen, it is my duty to serve and
defend my country.
CUB SCOUT 7: As a citizen, it is my duty to assist law
enforcement agencies.
CUB SCOUT 8: As a citizen, it is my duty to practice
and teach good citizenship in my home. Please read the
Citizenship Pledge with me. (All join in.)
As citizens, we will do our best
to be prepared in body and will,
in spirit and skill.
We accept our obligation to God
and will show by our actions
we are willing to serve others
and be good members of the Scouting team.
Explanation of the Pledge of Allegiance
Preparation: Cub Scouts memorize lines to recite from
NARRATOR: We often recite the Pledge of Allegiance
without really listening to or understanding the words
we are saying. We will recite it and talk about the mean-
ing of each phrase.
CUB SCOUT 1: I pledge allegiance
NARRATOR: I, an individual, promise my love, devotion,
and loyalty.
CUB SCOUT 2: To the flag of the United States
of America
NARRATOR: It is the symbol of 50 great states that have
a common bond.
CUB SCOUT 3: And to the republic for which it stands
NARRATOR: Representatives are chosen by the people
to govern themselves in a republic.
CUB SCOUT 4: One nation under God
NARRATOR: We are one nation under God and blessed
by God. There is no pause after nation. It is said as one
complete phraseone nation under God.
CUB SCOUT 5: Indivisible
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NARRATOR: It is incapable of being divided.
CUB SCOUT 6: With liberty
NARRATOR: With freedom and the right to live your
own life the way you wish.
CUB SCOUT 7: And justice
NARRATOR: Dealing fairly with others.
CUB SCOUT 8: For all.
NARRATOR: Everyoneit is your country as much as it
is mine. Please stand and repeat the Pledge of Allegiance
with us.
Flag of America
Preparation: In a darkened room, the first three Cub
Scouts light three candles or turn on three lights, one
red, one white, and one blue candle, in turn as they
speak their lines. The fourth boy turns toward the U.S.
flag as he speaks.
CUB SCOUT 1: (Lights red candle.) The red of our flag
stands for the courage to stand up for what we believe.
CUB SCOUT 2: (Lights white candle.) The white of our
flag stands for cleanliness of thought, word, and deed.
CUB SCOUT 3: (Lights blue candle.) The blue of our
flag stands for truth and justice like the blue of the skies.
CUB SCOUT 4: (Turns toward the U.S. flag.) Our flag,
the flag of America, where people of all races and beliefs
can live together in peace and friendship.
Flag Story
Preparation: Dim the lights as the last speaker finishes
and have two boys shine flashlights on the flag.
CUB SCOUT 1: On September 13, 1814, the British
began shooting at Fort McHenry, outside the city of
Baltimore, Maryland.
CUB SCOUT 2: They were holding an American prison-
er on board a warship until they finished their attack.
CUB SCOUT 3: Through the night, the American paced
the deck as he watched the battle, not knowing wheth-
er the fort could hold.
CUB SCOUT 4: The next morning, the haze was so thick
that he couldnt tell whether the battle had been won
or lost.
CUB SCOUT 5: Suddenly, a clearing in the mist gave him
a glimpse of the U.S. flag still flying over the fort.
CUB SCOUT 6: Francis Scott Key was so excited he
wrote a poem that is now our national anthem.
CUB SCOUT 7: Please rise and join us in singing
The Star-Spangled Banner.
I Am an American
CUB SCOUT 1: My country gives me the opportunity to
be anything I want to be. I am an American.
CUB SCOUT 2: My country means love of freedom, faith
in democracy, justice, and equality. I am an American.
CUB SCOUT 3: My country believes in the worth of
every person. I am an American.
CUB SCOUT 4: My country gives us the privilege of say-
ing what we believe. I am an American.
CUB SCOUT 5: My country is a democracy, and I have a
duty to keep it that way. I am an American.
CUB SCOUT 6: My country promises life, liberty, and the
pursuit of happiness. I am an American.
CUB SCOUT 7: My country is one that we should pro-
tect and defend. I am an American.
CUB SCOUT 8: My country is the land of the free and
the home of the brave. I am an American.
I Asked Myself a Question
NARRATOR: I asked myself a question today. What does
it mean to be an American? I decided that being an
American means that I have many freedoms. What are
they?
CUB SCOUT 1: Freedom to think, and to say out loud
what I think.
CUB SCOUT 2: Freedom to worship as I please.
CUB SCOUT 3: Freedom to move about.
CUB SCOUT 4: Freedom to try, and freedom to fail.
CUB SCOUT 5: Freedom to stand up straight and look
the world in the eye.
CUB SCOUT 6: Freedom from want, and freedom from
fear.
NARRATOR: These freedoms were here long before we
were born. I have four guarantees that they will remain:
the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution,
my fellow Americans, and myself. No one could ask for
more.
I Believe
Preparation: Create a poster with the words of God
Bless America written large enough for everyone to
read. Or pass out individual copies of the words to each
person as everyone arrives at the pack meeting.
CUB SCOUT 1: I believe in America!
CUB SCOUT 2: I believe in this country where freedom
is more than just a word.
CUB SCOUT 3: I believe that as a nation we place our
trust in God.
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CUB SCOUT 4: I believe that as a country, we have our
faults but also try to overcome them.
CUB SCOUT 5: I believe in America!
CUB SCOUT 6: Please stand and join us in singing God
Bless America.
Old Glory
Preparation: The U.S. flag is already posted. Four Cub
Scouts hold flashlights that shine on it.
NARRATOR: What you see here represents the past, the
present, and the future. The stripes of Old Glory stand
for the original 13 colonies. The stars represent the 50
states. The boys represent the men of tomorrow. The
lights remind us of four great freedoms.
CUB SCOUT 1: Freedom of speech
CUB SCOUT 2: Freedom of worship
CUB SCOUT 3: Freedom from want
CUB SCOUT 4: Freedom from fear
NARRATOR: Let us all stand and pledge allegiance to
our flag.
Alternative staging for the above ceremony:
In a dimly lit room, have four Cub Scouts each hold a
corner of the U.S. flag in one hand, and a flashlight in
the other hand. The boys turn on their flashlights, and
the narrator starts reading.
NARRATOR: What you see here represents the past, the
present, and the future. The stripes of Old Glory stand
for the original 13 colonies. The stars represent the 50
states. The boys represent the men of tomorrow. The
lights remind us of four great freedoms: freedom of
speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and
freedom from fear. Eliminate any one of these freedoms
and our world becomes darker and colder. (At this time,
the boys turn off their flashlights one by one as the
narrator repeats.) Freedom of speechfreedom of
worship freedom from wantfreedom from fear. (As
the fourth flashlight is turned off, the room lights are
turned off. The two boys holding the lower corners of
the flag drop them and move to the front of the flag,
face it, and salute before the room lights are turned
back on.)
NARRATOR: In a world where these four freedoms
struggle to stay alive, there is a country where they
flourish. Let us all stand and pledge our love to our
country by singing God Bless America.
Our American Heritage
CUB SCOUT 1: I am the symbol of America.
CUB SCOUT 2: I am life, liberty, and the right to pursue
happiness.
CUB SCOUT 3: I am hope for each person to be what he
or she wants to be.
CUB SCOUT 4: I am life and stand for each person who
died so I could live in freedom.
CUB SCOUT 5: I am tolerance so all people can worship
God in the way they wish.
CUB SCOUT 6: I am a sign of the future as I wave over
schools and government buildings.
CUB SCOUT 7: I am the flag of the United States.
Our Country Is Different
CUB SCOUT 1: Our country is great in different ways.
We would like to tell you some of the things that are dif-
ferent and that help make it great.
CUB SCOUT 2: We call it the United States, and we are
bound together by the Constitution, but in many ways
we are a group of separate nations.
CUB SCOUT 3: We practice more than 250 religions and
observe thousands of different laws.
CUB SCOUT 4: Our land grows palm trees and pine
trees, redwoods and birch.
CUB SCOUT 5: We catch shrimp and sell stocks; we live in
small towns and large cities and in the rural countryside.
CUB SCOUT 6: We are a very diverse people, and this is
what makes the United States great.
CUB SCOUT 7: Let us rise and sing America, the Beautiful.
Our Flag
Preparation: Use an unseen narrator or have someone
tape the following narrative in advance. Spotlight the
U.S. flag and darken the room.
NARRATOR: I am Old Glory. For more than 200 years I
have been the banner of hope and freedom, for genera-
tion after generation of Americans. Born amid the first
flames of Americas fight for freedom, I am the symbol
of a country that has grown from a little group of 13
colonies to a nation of 50 states. Over the years, my stars
and stripes have proved an inspiration to untold mil-
lions of Americans, including those who have followed
me into battle with unwavering courage. They have
looked upon me as a symbol of national unity. They have
prayed that they and their fellow citizens might con-
tinue to enjoy the life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness
that have been promised to every American. As long as
Americans cherish liberty more than life itself, as long as
they treasure the privileges bought so dearly, as long as
the principles of truth, justice, and liberty for all remain
deeply rooted in their hearts, I shall continue to stand
for the United States of America. I am Old Glory.
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Talking Flag
Preparation: Have the U.S. flag posted in a flag stand
in the center of the room. Dim the lights and spotlight
the flag. Have a person out of view and place a small
speaker near the flag. A Cub Scout walks by the flag as
it begins speaking. An alternate plan is to record the
speaking part of the flag in advance and place a small
tape player near the flag.
FLAG: Hello, Scout!
CUB SCOUT: Did you talk to me?
FLAG: Ive been speaking since back in 1776, to anyone
who would listen. My story is simple. Would you like to
hear it?
CUB SCOUT: Yes! (He sits down on the floor.)
FLAG: When our country became a new nation, I had 13
stripes and a circle of 13 stars on a field of blue. Then in
1794, I had 15 stars and 15 stripes. I was called the Star-
Spangled Banner when Francis Scott Key wrote a poem
about me in 1814. This poem became our National
Anthem. In 1818, the stripes were changed back to the
original 13, and from then on, a star was added for each
new state that joined our union. That is why there are 50
stars on me.
CUB SCOUT: (Stands.) Thats great. Lets all stand and
say the Pledge of Allegiance.
Voting
NARRATOR: Tonight well talk about our freedoms.
Our nation has remained strong and free because our
government is of the people, by the people, and for the
people. Each of us has an obligation to do all that we
can to preserve the freedoms for which thousands of
our ancestors have died. Here are the freedoms guaran-
teed to us in our Constitution.
CUB SCOUT 1: The right to worship God in ones own
personal way.
CUB SCOUT 2: The right to free speech and press.
CUB SCOUT 3: The right to assemble peaceably.
CUB SCOUT 4: The right to petition for a redress of
grievances.
CUB SCOUT 5: The right to privacy in our homes.
CUB SCOUT 6: The right to protection against illegal
imprisonment and the freedom from excessive bail.
CUB SCOUT 7: The right to trial by jury. A person is
innocent until proved guilty.
CUB SCOUT 8: The right to move about freely at home
and to travel abroad.
CUB SCOUT 1: The right to own property.
CUB SCOUT 2: The right to a free election and a personal
secret ballot.
NARRATOR: Maintaining our freedoms is the responsi-
bility of every American. Keep your freedom. Vote as you
think, but vote.
Achieve
Preparation: Make seven large cards with one of
the letters of ACHIEVE written on one side and its
corresponding script written on the other.
CUB SCOUT 1: A is for advancement along the Scouting trail.
CUB SCOUT 2: C is for commitment to always do your best.
CUB SCOUT 3: H is for home, where it all begins.
CUB SCOUT 4: I is for the individual who is
learning teamwork.
CUB SCOUT 5: E is for everyonethe den works together.
CUB SCOUT 6: V is for victory that is achieved along the trail.
CUB SCOUT 7: E is for excellence, a job well done.
Baden-Powell
NARRATOR: In 1907, Baden-Powell took 21 boys with
him to Brownsea Island, off Englands southern coast,
for what was to be the worlds first Scout camp. It was
successful beyond his wildest dreams. Because of this
beginning, Scouting was organized in America and in
many other countries. Today, there are more than 28
million Scouts and Scouters from 160 countries around
the world. Time changes many things, but the aims of
Scouting are the same today as when it was started.
Please stand, give the Cub Scout sign, and say the Cub
Scout Promise.
Badges of Cloth
Preparation: Make six cards with the letters B, A, D, G,
E, and S for the boys to hold.
CUB SCOUT 1: B stands for badges that are made
from cloth.
CUB SCOUT 2: A stands for Akelamy family and lead-
ers who help me.
CUB SCOUT 3: D stands for Do my best.
CUB SCOUT 4: G stands for grow. The pack helps the
Cub Scout grow.
CUB SCOUT 5: E stands for eagerness and energy that
are needed to earn badges.
CUB SCOUT 6: S stands for service to others.
All: BADGES!
What Is Tiger Cub Fun?
Preparation: Tiger Cubs hold cards with a letter on one
side and script on the back. The Tiger Cub says a letter,
and then his adult partner reads the script.
5-7
TIGER CUB DEN LEADER: What is Tiger Cub fun?
TEAM 1: TTrying new activities with our families and den.
TEAM 2: IIdentifying what makes our families special.
TEAM 3: GGetting to know others and ourselves better.
TEAM 4: EExploring our town and the world around us.
TEAM 5: RReinforcing values taught at home.
TEAM 6: SSearching, discovering, and sharing new
adventures and ideas.
Cub Scouting Is Many Things
NARRATOR: Cub Scouting is many things.
CUB SCOUT 1: Cub Scouting is a boy.
CUB SCOUT 2: Cub Scouting is a family that cares about
this boy.
CUB SCOUT 3: Cub Scouting is a den leader who works
with a den.
CUB SCOUT 4: Cub Scouting is a den chief who is the
best example there could be.
CUB SCOUT 5: Cub Scouting is a Cubmaster and pack
committee who lead our pack.
CUB SCOUT 6: Cub Scouting is building character while
having fun.
CUB SCOUT 7: Cub Scouting is citizenship, learning
respect for God and country.
CUB SCOUT 8: Cub Scouting is learning about fitness
and teamwork and always doing your best.
NARRATOR: As you can see, Cub Scouting is many
thingseach one is important. This is Cub Scouting.
Cub Scout Pocket
Preparation: Prepare two pockets out of cardboard
one blue and one tan (or two blue). Make or buy large
emblems (Bobcat, Tiger Cub, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow
of Light, and Gold and Silver Arrow Points).
NARRATOR: This is a pocketa very plain pocket that
could belong to anyone. (Cub Scout 1 places a Bobcat
badge on the blue pocket.)
Now, our pocket is turning into something with mean-
ing. It represents a sense of belonging and will soon
hold our Cub Scout knowledge, skills, and fellowship.
(Cub Scout 2 places a Tiger Cub badge on the pocket,
Cub Scout 3 places a Wolf badge on the pocket, and
Cub Scout 4 places Gold and Silver Arrow Points
below the pocket.)
Before too long, our pocket becomes even more special.
It proudly displays newfound knowledge of our flag,
knowledge about keeping ourselves strong, about tools,
knots, safety, books, and reading. It means our Cub Scout
has mastered feats of skill and has shown his willingness
to help in his home and take part in family fun. (Cub
Scout 5 places a Bear badge on the pocket, and Cub
Scout 6 places Gold and Silver Arrow Points below
the pocket.)
Our pocket now has even more meaning. It shows our
Cub Scout is completing increasingly difficult achieve-
ments that show he is growing in knowledge and skill.
(Cub Scout 7 places a Webelos badge on the tan [or
second blue] pocket, and Cub Scout 8 places an Arrow
of Light Award below the pocket.)
Our pockets now show that our Cub Scout has learned
hobbies and career-related skills. He has also learned
what it means to be a Boy Scout.
Cub Scouting has turned our plain pocket into a pocket-
ful of adventure, fun, and excitement.
Cub Scout Spirit
Preparation: Set up four candles or lights.
NARRATOR: Scouts and leaders, we are following a trail
blazed by millions of boys, men, and women. All of them
have had that Scouting spirit, which the flame of this
light represents (lights first candle or light).
CUB SCOUT 1: What is Cub Scout spirit?
CUB SCOUT 2: It is the three things we promise to do in
the Cub Scout Promise.
CUB SCOUT 3: The first part is, I promise to do my best to
do my duty to God and my country. (Lights next light.)
CUB SCOUT 4: The second part is to help other
people. (Lights next light.)
CUB SCOUT 5: The third is to obey the Law of the
Pack. (Lights last light.)
CUB SCOUT 6: While these lights burn, please stand and
say the Cub Scout Promise.
Fire Prevention
Preparation: Dim the lights in room. One Cub Scout
lights a single white candle or light in the front of
the room.
NARRATOR: Scouts, this light represents the spirit of
Scouting, lighting our way through life. But the flame
also represents danger. This month we have learned
about the dangers of fire and how to prevent fires. Lets
remember what we have learned so that we will always
use fire safely and wisely not only as boys, but later on
as men.
This light of Scouting gives us warmth and good cheer.
Make sure it is never allowed to run wild and destroy
lives and property.
We will let the light of Scouting burn throughout our
meeting to remind us of our ideals.
5-8
Garden
Preparation: Each Cub Scout carries a poster with a pic-
ture of each vegetable mentioned, poster board decorated
as seed packages, or real vegetables. For younger boys
who have trouble with the words, have an adult read the
entire script and let the boys walk on with the items.
CUB SCOUT 1: Here is how to plant one of those thriv-
ing Scout gardens that every family wants to grow.
CUB SCOUT 2: First, plant rows of peaspreparedness,
promptness, perseverance, politeness, and praise.
CUB SCOUT 3: Then plant rows of lettucelet us work
together, let us be unselfish, let us be loyal, let us be
truthful, let us help one another.
CUB SCOUT 4: Next to them plant rows of squash
squash prejudice, squash impatience, squash indifference.
CUB SCOUT 5: No garden is complete without tur-
nipsturn up for den and pack meetings, turn up with
new ideas, turn up with determination.
CUB SCOUT 6: Without the help of every family and boy
in our pack, our Scouting garden will turn to weeds.
CUB SCOUT 7: So help us work the soil, pull the weeds,
and spread the sunshine so we can say, We have done
our best.
Knights
Preparation: Create a large shield. Give each boy who
has a speaking part the appropriate badge to place on
the shield. As the narrator finishes the script, the color
guard posts the U.S. flag.
Materials: Shield; BSA logo; Cub Scout rank emblems:
Bobcat, Tiger Cub, Wolf, Bear, Arrow Point, Webelos,
Arrow of Light logos; religious emblem; and a U.S. flag
NARRATOR: Hear ye, hear ye! Tonight we speak of the
days of yore when a coat of arms was really important. It
told all who met you, who your family was, and whether
you were a friend. Today, we wear our coat of armsour
Cub Scout uniform.
CUB SCOUT 1: The first Scouting insignia tells everyone
that we belong to the worldwide family of Scouting. (He
places the Scouting emblem on the shield.)
CUB SCOUT 2: The Bobcat is the first badge we earn. It
means we have learned the basic rules of Cub Scouting.
(He places the Bobcat badge on the shield.)
CUB SCOUT 3: The Tiger Cub badge is next for first-
graders. Boys learn how to build strong relationships
with one another and their families. (He places the Tiger
Cub badge on the shield.)
CUB SCOUT 4: Cub Scouts who are 8 years old or in
the second grade earn the Wolf badge. While working
toward it, we learn respect for our flag, about home
safety, and about our neighborhood. (He places the Wolf
badge on the shield.)
CUB SCOUT 5: Next we move on to our Bear badge.
Conservation, folklore, and woodworking are some of
the fields we explore. (He places the Bear badge on
the shield.)
CUB SCOUT 6: While advancing through the Wolf and
Bear ranks, we can choose to do extra projects and earn
Arrow Points. (He places the Arrow Point emblems on
the shield.)
CUB SCOUT 7: Our next step is Webelos, where we work
on activity badges such as Citizen, Artist, Engineer, and
Forester. (He places the Webelos badge on the shield.)
CUB SCOUT 8: The Arrow of Light is the highest award
in Cub Scouting. It means that we have worked on addi-
tional activity areas and have learned the basics about
Boy Scouting. (He places the Arrow of Light emblem on
the shield.)
CUB SCOUT 9: Many Cub Scouts also earn the religious
emblem for their faith. They have explored and learned
what their religion means to them and their community.
(He places the religious emblem or knot on the shield.)
NARRATOR: To complete our coat of arms, we include
the U.S. flag. It symbolizes our country and the love and
respect we have for it. Our flag tells everyone we are
proud to be Americans. Let us stand and salute our flag.
(The color guard brings in the U.S. flag.)
Magic
Preparation: Make five large cards with the letters M,
A, G, I, and C on them.
CUB SCOUT 1: Wed like to tell you about the magic we
call Scouting.
CUB SCOUT 2: M is for the memories youll make with
your families in Scouting.
CUB SCOUT 3: A is for advancement. Learning new skills
is a big part of the sharing time for Scouts and families.
CUB SCOUT 4: G is for goodwill. Giving goodwill
teaches us to share and help others.
CUB SCOUT 5: I is for important, which describes the
time we spend with our families in great activities.
CUB SCOUT 6: C is for communication. This is the key
to understanding and respect within a family.
ALL: Scouting is magic!
My Backyard
CUB SCOUT 1: My backyard is a wonderful place, where
I can discover my own special space.
CUB SCOUT 2: I can pitch a tent and sleep in the rain, or
listen to the whistle of a faraway train.
CUB SCOUT 3: I can throw a ball, if one is to be had. Or
just be alone when I get mad.
5-9
CUB SCOUT 4: I can plant a garden or climb a tree, or
watch my dog chase a bumblebee.
CUB SCOUT 5: Sometimes we even have den meetings
there. Ive finished my Wolf badge and started my
Bear badge.
CUB SCOUT 6: Yeah, the backyard is where I run, when I
really want to have some fun.
Ships of Scouting
Preparation: Make six large cutout silhouettes of ships.
Print the following words, one word per silhouette,
on them: SCHOLAR-SHIP, FELLOW-SHIP, FRIEND-SHIP,
SPORTSMAN-SHIP, WORKMAN-SHIP, STATESMAN-SHIP
CUB SCOUT 1: We would like to tell you about the six
ships of Scouting.
CUB SCOUT 2: Scholarship is very important on the sea
of education.
CUB SCOUT 3: Fellowship stands for cooperation and
unity.
CUB SCOUT 4: Friendship is the most beautiful ship of
all. It is true blue, and its flag is golden.
CUB SCOUT 5: Sportsmanship stands for all that is fair.
CUB SCOUT 6: Workmanship represents the best that a
person can give.
CUB SCOUT 7: Statesmanship represents wise guidance
and unselfish interest.
CUB SCOUT 8: These six strong and sturdy ships will
help you brave the sea of life. Three cheers for the
Scouting ships!
Neighborhood
Preparation: Have five Cub Scouts ready to walk on
in turn carrying their item, a newspaper, envelope, stop
sign poster, 25-mph sign, or recycling item.
CUB SCOUT 1: (carrying newspaper) Im your paper-
boyI deliver the news. Freedom of press has different
views.
CUB SCOUT 2: (carrying envelope) Im the postmanI
deliver with dash. That new Boys Life is really a smash.
CUB SCOUT 3: (carrying stop sign poster) Safety is my
job; Im the school crossing guard. You cross the street
safely to get to your yard.
CUB SCOUT 4: (carrying 25-mph sign) Im the speed
limit sign, which saves lots of lives. People obey me, dur-
ing their drive.
CUB SCOUT 5: (carrying recycling item) Im the litter,
which makes everyone bitter. Lets recycle it, so life will
be better.
NARRATOR: Our neighborhood is an important part of
the country in which we live.
Seven Seas
Preparation: Have seven Cub Scouts stand with can-
dles or flashlights behind the narrator.
NARRATOR: The seven lights you see here represent the
seven seas and the seven continents from which our
ancestors came to this great land. Our Statue of Liberty
has seven spikes coming from her crown to represent
the same seas and continents. Lets give thanks to our
God who guided all of us here. (Pause.) Now please
stand and join us in singing America, the Beautiful.
Shape Up for Fitness
Preparation: Make large cards with the letters
S, H, A, P, E, U, and P on them.
CUB SCOUT 1: SShaping up is what we have been
doing this month.
CUB SCOUT 2: HHard as we do our exercises,
CUB SCOUT 3: AAthletic and fit as we can be,
CUB SCOUT 4: PPush-ups, curl-ups, 123,
CUB SCOUT 5: ETakes all the energy
CUB SCOUT 6: UUnder the sun
CUB SCOUT 7: PTo make an awesome person like me.
ALL: Shape up!
Space
Preparation: Make cards with the letters C, U, B,
S, C, O, U, and T on them. Shape the first and last card so
that when all are put together, they form a spaceship
that moves off-stage when the narrator says the final,
Blast off!
NARRATOR: Were going to assemble our rocket for a
trip into space, and wed like you to join us.
CUB SCOUT 1: C stands for for courtesy all through life.
CUB SCOUT 2: U stands for usefulness to our families
and others.
CUB SCOUT 3: B stands for bravery in thought and deed.
CUB SCOUT 4: S stands for safety in all that we do.
CUB SCOUT 5: C stands for choice. We worship God in
the way we choose.
CUB SCOUT 6: O stands for outdoors and the beauty of
nature.
CUB SCOUT 7: U stands for unityin our family, our
den, our pack.
CUB SCOUT 8: T stands for the truth in all things.
NARRATOR: Now we are ready to blast off. 54321
BLAST OFF! (The rocket moves off stage.)
5-10
Spirit of Baden-Powell
Preparation: Cub Scouts bring in a different symbol
for each statement the narrator makes before the color
guard enters: a religious symbol or emblem, a boy in
complete uniform, a Wolf Handbook, a craft project, an
object from nature, a U.S. flag, and the pack flag.
NARRATOR: I represent the spirit of Baden-Powellthe
founder of Scouting.
(Cub Scout 1 enters carrying a religious symbol or
religious emblem.) Religious organizations sponsor
almost half the Cub Scout packs in America.
(Cub Scout 2 walks in wearing a complete uniform.)
The two colors of the Cub Scout uniform have a mean-
ing: Blue stands for truth and loyalty, gold for good cheer
and happiness.
(Cub Scout 3 carries a Wolf Handbook.) Cub Scouting
was based on Rudyard Kiplings Jungle Book.
(Cub Scout 4 carries a craft project.) We have lots of
fun making things.
(Cub Scout 5 carries something from nature.) We also
like to hike and enjoy the outdoors.
We learn about citizenship. Scouts are the men of
tomorrow. Please stand. (A color guard enters carrying
a U.S. flag and the pack flag.) Please join us in singing
God Bless America.
Story of the Blue and Gold
Preparation: Put a large pot on a table with an inner
pot containing dry ice. A blue and gold Wolf Cub Scout
neckerchief is concealed in the area between the large
pot and the inner pot. Have two clear jars concealed
elsewhere in the room with blue- and yellow-colored
water in them. Two Cub Scouts stand with the narrator.
NARRATOR: Many, many years ago, an elder gave two
trusted young men a challenge. He told the first young
man to climb the mountain and ask the great eagle to fly
high into the sky. His mission was to bring back part of
the beauty of the sun. (The first Cub Scout leaves.)
He told the second young man to go into the forest and
tell the sparrow to fly into the sky and bring back part
of the sky. (The second Cub Scout leaves. Then both
boys returnone carrying a bottle of yellow-colored
water and the second carrying a bottle of blue-colored
water. They hold them up for everyone to see.)
(To the first boy.) Pour some of the beauty of the sun
into our mixing pot. (The boy carefully pours the yel-
low liquid over the dry ice.)
(To the second boy) Pour some of the beauty of the sky
into our mixing pot. (The second boy carefully pours
his blue water into the pot.)
(To the pack) From this day forward, blue will stand
for truth and loyalty. Yellow will stand for warm sun-
shine, happiness, and good cheer. (Reaches into the pot,
removes the blue and gold Wolf Cub Scout neckerchief
and opens it for everyone to see.) And that is why Cub
Scouts use the colors blue and gold.
Woodworking
Preparation: Gather toolsan awl, chisel, level, file, drill,
hammerand a piece of wood for speakers to hold. Use
a U.S. flag in a stand.
CUB SCOUT 1: Awl Scouts should remember the
motto: Do Your Best.
CUB SCOUT 2: Scouting chisels out a well-rounded
program for families.
CUB SCOUT 3: In Scouting, boys work on projects that
are appropriate to their age level.
CUB SCOUT 4: Scouting helps to file the rough edges
off boys and smoothes their way.
CUB SCOUT 5: The Cub Scout Promise helps to drill
into boys a sense of duty to God and country and help-
ing others.
CUB SCOUT 6: All families can hammer out the respon-
sibilities of our pack by volunteering to help in their
own way.
CUB SCOUT 7: Wood everyone now please stand and
repeat the Pledge of Allegiance?
Cub Scout Promise in Sign Language
Preparation: When a den practices this in advance, it
is a beautiful ceremony. You may want to dim the lights
and spotlight the den standing in front of the pack. Have
the boys in the den demonstrate the Cub Scout Promise
in sign language one time through and then have the
pack join them, step by step.
5-11
Cub Scout Promise in Sign Language
I Promise Do To
My Do Best To
My To Duty God
And My Country
5-12 Pack Meeting Opening Ceremonies
People Help
Obey
Other To
And To
Law Of
Pack
The
The
6-1
A Valuable Opportunity, 6-2
Ceremonies
Short Closing Thoughts, 6-2
Americas Answer, 6-2
Apple Seeds, 6-3
Bird Nest, 6-3
Bird Watchers, 6-3
Blue and Gold, 6-3
Compass, 6-3
Compass Prayer, 6-3
Create or Destroy, 6-4
Cub Scout Vespers, 6-4
Do Your Best, 6-4
Dominoes, 6-4
Good News, 6-4
Halloween, 6-4
CHAPTER 6
Pack Meeting
Closing Ceremonies
Pack Meeting Closing Ceremonies
6-2
I Am Your Flag, 6-4
I Made a Promise, 6-4
I Will Use My Senses, 6-5
Light Switch, 6-5
Making a Difference, 6-5
Nature Visitors, 6-5
One Candle, 6-5
Our Flag, 6-5
Parents, 6-6
Pocketknife, 6-6
Ripple Effect, 6-6
Scout Benediction, 6-6
Scouting History, 6-6
The Sky Is the Limit, 6-6
Smile, 6-6
Sportsmanship, 6-6
Stars, 6-6
Stick to It Stamp, 6-7
Sticks, 6-7
Taps With Cub Scout Promise, 6-7
Taps With Hand Motions, 6-7
Ten Needs of a Boy, 6-7
Thank You, 6-7
Tires Can Take It, 6-7
Trees, 6-8
Value of a Badge, 6-8
World Globe, 6-8
Yardstick, 6-8
A Valuable Opportunity
The closing moments of each pack meeting are ideal
opportunities to present a brief character lesson. Follow
these tips for making your closing thoughts more
effective:
Your meeting should be structured so that the boys
are quieter than they were in the beginning and
middle of their meeting, and they are in a quiet and
reflective mood.
Use simple props and lighting to enhance your
thought.
Remember that this is a closing thought, not a full-
length sermon. Keep it simple!
Vary the thoughts you use from meeting to meeting.
Dont overuse one particular Core Value.
Vary the length. Use one of the brief sentences or
poems and let it stand on its own, without additional
comments.
Invite leaders, adults, or den chiefs to choose and
present a closing thought. It will give the boys an
opportunity to see other perspectives as well as rein-
force the ideas you have been developing.
Short Closing Thoughts
Keep your eyes and ears open for ideas in everything
you read and hear. Remember to give credit to your
source when you share someone elses words.
Remember that it takes both sunshine and rain to
make a rainbow.
The land belongs to many people. Some are alive
today, some are dead, but most are yet to be born.
I am only one person, so I cant change everything
in this world. But I am one person, and I can change
some things.
It is far easier to bend a boy than to mend a man.
(Baden-Powell)
Famous people have taken the oath of office for pres-
ident of the United States and have pledged: I will, to
the best of my ability, preserve, protect, and defend
the Constitution of the United States of America. We,
as Scouts and families, can also live up to this oath.
The real way to get happiness is by giving out happi-
ness to other people. (Baden-Powell)
For every person with a spark of genius, there are a
dozen with ignition trouble.
A boy has two jobs. One is just being a boy. The other
is growing up to be a man. (Herbert Hoover)
Americas Answer
NARRATOR: America needs citizens who value their
heritage. How does a boy come to know and appreciate
his heritage as a citizen of the United States of America?
As a Bobcat, he promises to do my duty to God and my
country and learns to handle and fold the flag. Later, he
stands tall as the flag is lowered at camp. He is learning
about citizenship. He continues to learn to treasure his
American heritage, and he will do all he can to preserve
and enrich it. So this young boy comes to manhood. He
has grown tall through his Scouting experiences and
through the influences of the many men and women
who have guided him. He is a Scout. He is Americas
answer!
6-3
Apple Seeds
Materials: An apple and a knife
NARRATOR: If I were to give you a choice, which would
you rather have, an apple or the apple seeds? (Cut the
apple and take out a few seeds.)
I guess most of us would choose the apple. A long time
ago, there lived a man who would have taken the apple
seeds. For many years, Jon Chapman, also known as
Johnny Appleseed, walked across hundreds of miles
of our country. Everywhere he went, he planted apple
seeds. There is a type of seed that you are planting every
day, too. It is the seed of fellowship. Every time you help
other people, you are planting this seed. Then the seed
that you have planted can grow in them, and they can
spread it to others, just like the seeds in the apple.
Bird Nest
Preparation: Show a photo or drawing of a birds nest.
NARRATOR: This nest might have been a home for baby
birds. Those baby birds are much like the boys who are
growing up in our pack.
As these baby birds grow, so does a boy. They will be
fed and nurtured by their families. They will watch the
example of other birds as they fly through the skies
around them.
One day, the birds will leave their nest, just as birds have
always done and will continue to do. They will have grown
into adults and will play an important role in nature.
A boy will do the same as he grows and flies into adult-
hood. He will become an important member of his com-
munity and his country and will be a leading citizen for
everyone to see and admire.
To grow into manhood, a boy must have nourishment
for his body and his mind. He must be nurtured by his
family and his community along the way, if his ideas and
character are to develop.
Our community and our country need this growing
youth. Our pack will fly only if we, as families, continue
to nourish our youth.
Bird Watchers
Preparation: Have Cub Scouts walk on and read the
statement for his rank.
Personnel: Bobcat, Tiger Cub, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos
Scout, and boy who is working on his Arrow of
Light; narrator
BOBCAT: I am a Bobcat. Like a sparrow, I work hard to
learn about Cub Scouting.
TIGER CUB: I am a Tiger Cub. Like a hummingbird, I
move quickly from one activity to another.
WOLF CUB SCOUT: I am a Wolf Cub Scout. Like a swallow,
I swoop and learn many new skills.
BEAR CUB SCOUT: I am a Bear Cub Scout. Like a robin,
I have colors on my chest to show my accomplishments.
WEBELOS: I am a Webelos Scout. I learn much along the
Scouting trail that makes me strong and independent
like the hawk.
ARROW OF LIGHT: I am earning the Arrow of Light,
which is the highest award in Cub Scouting. As the eagle
is a proud bird, I am also proud of my accomplishments.
NARRATOR: Just as we watch the many birds that are
around us, we also watch our Scouts grow as they walk
the Scouting trail.
Blue and Gold
NARRATOR: Do you know what the blue and gold of
Cub Scouting means? Each color has a meaning. Blue
stands for truth and spirituality, for steadfast loyalty, and
for the sky above. Gold stands for good cheer and hap-
piness, and the warm sunlight. May the meaning behind
these two colors shine in your lives as we live the
Scouting program.
Compass
Preparation: Hold a compass in your hand as you give
this talk.
NARRATOR: How many of you have ever held and used
a compass? Are you able to find which way is north? In
Scouting, we have another type of compass. Its called
the Cub Scout Promise. It is an excellent guide for mak-
ing decisions in life. Whenever you are wondering what
to do, say the Cub Scout Promise. It will not always give
you an easy answer. Sometimes youll have to really
think it through to make your decision. But chances are,
it will help you know the right thing to do.
Compass Prayer
CUB SCOUT 1: From the south, we feel warmth and
are secure.
CUB SCOUT 2: From the north, the chills of life come
and we learn to adapt.
CUB SCOUT 3: From the east, we see the rising sun and
the promise of a new day of life.
CUB SCOUT 4: From the west, we see the setting sun
and the peace of night.
CUB SCOUT 5: Look up for hope in all the mysteries
of life.
CUB SCOUT 6: Look down for the security and life the
earth gives.
CUB SCOUT 7: Look inside yourself to find you in all
your splendor.
6-4
Create or Destroy
NARRATOR: One of Americas greatest conservationists,
Aldo Leopold, said, The Lord giveth, and the Lord taketh
away, but he is no longer the only one to do so. When an
ancestor of ours invented the shovel, he became a giver.
He could plant a tree. When the ax was invented, he
became a taker. He could chop it down.
Each of us possesses the power to create or to destroy.
Let us use this power wisely for the good of our country
and all humanity.
Cub Scout Vespers
Preparation: Have a den lead Cub Scout Vespers.
Tune: O Tannenbaum
As the night comes to this land,
On my promise I will stand.
I will help the pack to go,
As our pack helps me to grow.
Yes, I will always give goodwill.
Ill follow my Akela still.
And before I stop to rest,
I will do my very best.
Do Your Best
NARRATOR: When we say the Cub Scout Promise, the
words Do my best are some of the first words we say.
Lets stop for a minute and think about them. What does
the word best mean? (Let the boys answer.) Thats
rightit means to do something better than we have
done it before. You are the only person who knows
whether you have done your best. Think about the
meaning of this promise and decide that you will always
do your best, no matter what you are doing.
Dominoes
Preparation: Hold up a box of dominoes.
NARRATOR: Does everyone know what these are? Right.
This is a box of dominoes.
Imagine that each one of them is a Cub Scout. Have you ever
lined them up on a table so that they are standing on their
ends? They stand up straight and tall, but as they go through
life, there will be winds that try to knock them down.
It doesnt take much to make the dominoes start to fall.
And yet, it only takes one domino to stop the entire row
from collapsing.
Perhaps the Cub Scout relies on the support of a family
member, his den leader, Cubmaster, teacher, or another rela-
tive to help him stand tall. Or perhaps he uses what he has
learned in Cub Scouting to move out of the influence of
drugs or a friend who tells him that shoplifting is OK.
Or perhaps all the dominoes band together for strength
in numbers so that they cant be knocked down.
Scouting will help you remain standing tall and proud
just like these dominoes.
Good News
NARRATOR: You all have inside yourselvesa piece of
good news. The good news is that you really dont know:
How great you can be,
How much you can love,
What you can accomplish, or
What your potential is.
How can you top good news like that?
Anne Frank, from her diary
Halloween
Preparation: Make nine large cards with the letters
H, A, L, L, O, W, E, E, and N on them.
NARRATOR: H is for Halloween.
CUB SCOUT 1: A is for awesome.
CUB SCOUT 2: L is for laughs.
CUB SCOUT 3: L is for lighted pumpkins.
CUB SCOUT 4: O is for outrageous.
CUB SCOUT 5: W is for wacky.
CUB SCOUT 6: E is for eerie.
CUB SCOUT 7: E is for exciting.
CUB SCOUT 8: N is for nighttime fun!
ALL: HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
I Am Your Flag
Preparation: Display a U.S. flag in a stand. Prepare a
card for each Cub Scout with his script on it.
Materials: U.S. flag
CUB SCOUT 1: I am the symbol of freedom.
CUB SCOUT 2: I am faith.
CUB SCOUT 3: I am hope.
CUB SCOUT 4: I am love.
CUB SCOUT 5: I am tolerance.
CUB SCOUT 6: I am justice.
CUB SCOUT 7: I am hope for peace on earth.
CUB SCOUT 8: I am a sign for the future.
CUB SCOUT 1: I am the flag of the United States.
I Made a Promise
CUB SCOUT 1: I made a promiseI said that in what-
ever I did, I would do the very best I could.
CUB SCOUT 2: I made a promiseto serve my God and
my country the best I could.
CUB SCOUT 3: I made a promiseto help other people
the best I could.
6-5
CUB SCOUT 4: I made a promiseto obey the Law of
the Pack the best I could.
CUB SCOUT 5: I have done my best, and I promise to do
my best.
CUB SCOUT 6: I am a Cub Scout.
CUB SCOUT 7: Please stand and join us in reciting the
Cub Scout Promise.
I Will Use My Senses
CUB SCOUT 1: This is my country.
CUB SCOUT 2: I will use my eyes to see the beauty of
this land.
CUB SCOUT 3: I will use my ears to hear its quietest
sounds.
CUB SCOUT 4: I will use my mouth to enjoy the fruits of
its harvest.
CUB SCOUT 5: I will use my mind to keep its beauty for
future generations.
CUB SCOUT 6: I will use my hands to serve it and care
for it.
CUB SCOUT 7: And with my heart, I will honor it.
Light Switch
Preparation: Hold a flashlight or a battery-powered
lantern.
NARRATOR: Did you ever stop to think that each one of
us is like a light switch? Each one of us gets turned on
by different things.
When someone throws your switch, what do they get?
Do they get heat, such as anger, arguments, or grum-
bling? Or do they get light in the form of friendliness,
kindness, and understanding?
What you give off depends on what you are plugged
intowhat you are really like inside as a person. Every
day we should try to be a little better than the day before.
When someone throws our switch, we should reflect the
very best and brighten up the world around us. (Turn on
lantern or flashlight and shine it on the boys.)
Making a Difference
NARRATOR: A young boy walking the beach one morn-
ing noticed an old man picking up starfish and tossing
them back into the sea. He caught up to the man and
asked him why he was doing this. The man explained,
The stranded starfish will die when the sun comes up
and they dry out. Then the boy asked, But the beach
goes on and on, and there are zillions of starfish; how
can what you do make a difference? The man looked at
the starfish in his hand and said, It makes a difference
to this one. And he tossed it safely back into the waves.
Nature Visitors
CUB SCOUT 1: We enjoy being outdoors but always
need to remember those who follow us.
CUB SCOUT 2: Try to be a good visitor and leave the
plants and creatures for others to enjoy.
CUB SCOUT 3: The only things I took home with me
were drawings, photographs, and memories.
CUB SCOUT 4: I walked on pathways to protect the
plants and soil.
CUB SCOUT 5: When I see animals, I remember that I
am a guest in their home.
CUB SCOUT 6: I always make sure that all campfires are
completely out.
CUB SCOUT 7: When we are careful like this, well be
able to leave these things for others to enjoy in the
years to come.
One Candle
Preparation: Have one candle or a small light available.
NARRATOR: Lets turn out the lights. (Have someone
dim the lights.)
I want you to think about the darkness. (Pause and
then light the candle or turn on the small light.) Even
this one tiny light makes the room seem more cheerful.
Thats the way it can be with a Cub Scout. He might
not be very big, but he can light up his home and make
the people around him a little happier if he keeps the
Scouting spirit alive. Cub Scouts, to do that, always
remember to do your best.
Our Flag
Remember that the Pledge of Allegiance doesnt always
have to happen at the beginning of your pack meeting!
NARRATOR: I have often seen a large flag rippling in the
breeze from a flagpole atop a tall building and marveled
at its beauty with its 13 red and white stripes and 50
stars on a field of blue. Have you wondered why these
colors were chosen? Red is a symbol of bravery, white
is a symbol of purity, and blue is a symbol of love and
devotion. Our flag is made from cloth that contains mil-
lions of threads and stitches, all bound togethereach
doing its part. In this same way, our country is made up
of millions of individuals, with varied religious beliefs
and cultural backgrounds, but all are bound together in
a common cause to see that liberty and justice exist in
our country. Please stand and join me in pledging our
allegiance to our flag.
6-6
Parents
CUB SCOUT 1: I would like to ask that families keep
these things in mind.
CUB SCOUT 2: Counsel your sons that they may have
eyes to behold the red and purple sunsets,
CUB SCOUT 3: and that they may have sharp ears to
hear the voice of the Great Spirit.
CUB SCOUT 4: Guide them to have hands that respect
the things God has made.
CUB SCOUT 5: Help them be wise and see the lessons
hidden in every leaf and rock.
CUB SCOUT 6: Help them seek strength, not to be supe-
rior to others, but to help others.
CUB SCOUT 7: Help them to do their best along the
Scouting trail.
Pocketknife
Preparation: Hold a pocketknife in your hand.
NARRATOR: I hold in my hand a pocketknife. This is a
valuable tool because it can be used for many useful
things. It is a dependable tool as long as the blade is
kept sharp and free from rust and the working parts are
in good condition. But, if it is neglected and becomes
dull and rusty, it can be a dangerous tool.
The same thing applies to us. We have a body, and when
we keep it in good condition, it will serve us well. If we
get plenty of exercise, eat the proper foods, and have
healthy habits, we will be able to enjoy the many things
we can do. But if we fail to take care of ourselves, we
can become rusty and dull like the neglected knife. Do
your best to keep fit!
Ripple Effect
Preparation: Hand each person a pebble to drop into
the water.
Materials: Tub of water and a pebble for each person
NARRATOR: This tub of water symbolizes the world of
nature around us. Each pebble that is dropped into the
water has an effect on the waves that were caused by
the previous pebble. This is the same thing that happens
in nature. We are all connected and need to remember
that what we do has an impact on everything around us.
As you leave, please silently drop your pebble into the
water.
Scout Benediction
NARRATOR: Please stand. (Pause.) Now may the Great
Master of all Scouts be with us until we meet again.
Scouting History
NARRATOR: Robert Baden-Powell, a British hero, started
Scouting in England. He developed Scouting as an out-
door program for boys with ideals built in. It was a way
of thinking, a way of living, a way of doing things.
Today, Scouting is still a program filled with fun and
adventure. Men who earned badges as Scouts have
served on the Supreme Court, in the United States
House of Representatives, and in the United States
Senate. The late President John F. Kennedy was the first
president who had been a Boy Scout. Former President
Gerald Ford was an Eagle Scout. Many of our astronauts
were Scouts. More and more men, trained as Scouts, are
taking their places in todays world. Please stand with
me and repeat the Cub Scout Promise.
The Sky Is the Limit
NARRATOR: Have you ever heard anyone say the phrase,
The sky is the limit? This meant that people could
make anything of themselves that they wanted. Our
astronauts have proved that there is almost no limit to
what you can strive to be, either on Earth or in space.
How well you perform as a man will depend on how
you accept each new challenge as you are growing up.
The sky is not the limit. If you want to aim for the stars,
you must remember that you are building a launching
pad right now in every task you tackleat home, in
school, and in Cub Scouting.
Smile
Preparation: Make and hold up a sign with the word
SMILE written on it.
NARRATOR: A smile costs nothingbut creates much.
It happens in a flash, but the memory sometimes lasts
forever. It cannot be bought, borrowed, or stolen, but it
is something that isnt any good until it is given away
to someone else. So, if you meet someone who is too
weary to smile, give that person one of yours. No one
needs a smile quite as much as the person who has
none left to give.
Sportsmanship
NARRATOR: We hear a lot of talk about being a good
sport, but just what does that mean? A good sport learns
the rules so he can follow them. He competes and does
his best. If he wins, he doesnt rub it in but makes posi-
tive comments to his competitors. If he loses, he accepts
that fact and congratulates the winners. A sportsman
accepts defeat, studies how to improve, and determines
how to improve his best.
Stars
NARRATOR: Baden-Powell, the founder of Scouting,
once wrote: I often think that when the sun goes down,
the world is hidden by a big blanket from the light of
heaven, but the stars are little holes pierced in that blan-
ket by those who have done good deeds in this world.
The stars are not all the same size, but some are big
and some small. Some men have done small deeds but
6-7
they have made their hole in the blanket by doing good
before they went to heaven. Try [to] make your hole in
the blanket by doing good while you are on earth. It is
something to be good, but it is far better to do good.
Think of Baden-Powells message when you promise to
help other people.
Stick to It Stamp
Preparation: Hold an envelope that has a postage
stamp on it.
NARRATOR: The postage stamp you see on this enve-
lope had the important job of making sure that this
piece of mail was delivered to me. The stamp is pretty
small, but despite its size, it did the job. Each of you has
a job to do in your den and your families. Like the post-
age stamp, its not your size that determines how well
you do the job, but how well you stick to it. We arent
good at all things. Remember the stamp. It did the job
despite its size by sticking to the job. Do your best and
stick to it until your job is done.
Sticks
Preparation: Have a single stick and then a group of
about eight sticks or matchsticks.
NARRATOR: Im holding in my hand a stick. Its easy
enough to break by itself, isnt it? (Demonstrate.)
However, if you take a group of eight sticks, theyre
almost impossible to break. (Demonstrate again.)
This is true also for us. The single stick is each of you.
The group of eight is your den. Can you imagine how
strong we are when there is a stick for each adult and
boy in our pack?
Taps With Cub Scout Promise
Form the pack in a large circle, with families behind the
boys. Have all hum Taps quietly while one Cub Scout
slowly recites the Cub Scout Promise.
Taps With Hand Motions
Preparation: Have one den practice this so they can
demonstrate. Have the pack join in the second time.
Day is done. (Hands out to sides, palms up)
Gone the sun, (Turn palms down)
From the lakes, (Hands in front at waist height, palms
down)
From the hills, (Hands in front at shoulder height,
palms down)
From the sky. (Hands high above head)
All is well, (Right hand to left shoulder)
Safely rest, (Left hand to right shoulder)
God is nigh. (Bow head after singing)
Ten Needs of a Boy
CUB SCOUT 1: Every boy has 10 needs:
CUB SCOUT 2: To climb a mountain and look afar,
CUB SCOUT 3: To sit around a campfire with good friends,
CUB SCOUT 4: To test his strength and his skills on his
very own,
CUB SCOUT 5: To be alone with his thoughts and his God,
CUB SCOUT 6: To be ready to reach out and find the
hand of an understanding adult who is ready and willing
to help,
CUB SCOUT 7: To have a code to live by that is easily
understood and fair;
CUB SCOUT 8: To have a chance to play hard just for the
fun of it and to work hard for the thrill of it,
CUB SCOUT 9: To have a chance to failand know why,
CUB SCOUT 10: To have and be a good friend and have
a chance to prove both,
CUB SCOUT 11: To have a heroand a vision to measure
him by.
Thank You
Preparation: Hold up a sign with the words THANK
YOU written on it.
NARRATOR: The words thank you are two simple but
very important words. They tell people that you appreci-
ate what they have done. We do good things for others,
but do we remember to take the time to thank others
who have done something for us? Remember to say,
Thank you.
Tires Can Take It
Preparation: Hold up a newspaper advertisement
for tires.
NARRATOR: Tire manufacturers are always working to
make a better tire for our carsone that can take the
pounding and abuse that driving demands. In other
words, they are trying to make a tire that can take it.
Like a tire, you and I are put to the test every day. When
things are going smoothly, it is easy to smile and take it.
The real test is how we do when the going gets rough
when things dont turn out the way we want them to.
At times like these, the Cub Scout Promise can help you
carry on with the right attitude and do your share without
grumbling. It will help you meet the test. Can you take it?
6-8
Trees
CUB SCOUT 1: Have you ever thought about how
helpful a tree is?
CUB SCOUT 2: It provides a nesting place for birds,
shade from the sun, and protection from the rain.
CUB SCOUT 3: It discards its dead branches to decay
and become soil in the future.
CUB SCOUT 4: It adds beauty to our world.
CUB SCOUT 5: It adds oxygen to our air.
CUB SCOUT 6: A tree gives a lot more than it receives.
CUB SCOUT 7: We can learn a lesson from the treeby
doing our best to always be helpful to others and by
putting others first and ourselves last.
CUB SCOUT 8: Remember to give to others more than
you receive.
Value of a Badge
Preparation: Hold a Wolf badge in your hand.
NARRATOR: A badge in Scouting is a piece of embroi-
dered cloth. If you were trying to sell that badge, it
wouldnt sell for very much money. The real value of the
badge is in what it represents: the things you learned to
earn ithow to keep healthy, how to be a good citizen,
good safety practices, conservation, and many new skills.
So when you wear your badge, think of its real valueit
represents what you have learned.
World Globe
Preparation: Hold a world globe in your hand and
spin it.
NARRATOR: Did you know that all over the world,
Scouts just like us are taking part in Scouting activities
too? Its true. The Scouting movement exists in more
than 100 countries in almost every nation of the world.
Their Scouts are very much like us. They have the same
ideals and the same brotherhood of service to others.
Lets think of all those other Scouts as we say the Cub
Scout Promise.
Yardstick
Preparation: Hold a yardstick that has been scored at
10
1
2 inches, 9 inches, and 3 inches.
NARRATOR: This yardstick represents the entire life of
your boy. If the average person lives about 72 years, then
every half inch on this represents two years. After the
age of 21, we really cant influence how people think, or
what they do or what they believe. (Break the yardstick
at 10
1
2 inches.) All we have left is 21 yearsthis 10
1
2
inches.
Of course, at the age of 18, people are pretty much on
their own. They can vote, own property, be married,
or defend their country (Break the scored piece at 9
inches.) This leaves us 18 yearsor this 9 inchesto
influence our boys.
But the boys in our pack are at least 6 years old, so this
part is already used. (Break the scored piece at 3 inches.)
We cant get this time back. That leaves us 6 inches or 12
years to make the difference of a lifetime.
7-1
Why Do We Have Induction Ceremonies? 7-2
Ceremonies
Family Induction Into the Pack, 7-2
On the Cub Scout Trail, 7-2
Recipe for Cub Scouting, 7-3
This Is Cub Scouting, 7-3
CHAPTER 7
Induction
Ceremonies
Induction Ceremonies
7-2
Why Do We Have Induction
Ceremonies?
Have you ever walked into a group of people you didnt
know? Did others come up and immediately introduce
themselves? Did it make a difference in how you felt
about being there?
All of us have been in new situations like this. A ceremo-
ny that inducts families into the pack extends a warm
welcome to them. It also lets other people in the pack
help them feel welcomed. Another important reason for
these ceremonies is that families learn in a special way
what is expected of them in Scouting. They learn that
this is a family program and there are many things they
can do to help their Scout grow. An induction ceremony
can make a big difference in how effective they will be
and how long they will stay in this program.
Family Induction Into the Pack
(For New Families)
NARRATOR: Families, please make the Cub Scout sign
and repeat after me:
I will do my best to support my boy,
And to guide him to live up to the Cub
Scout Promise and the Law of the Pack.
I will work with my boy
To help him complete his advancements
to the best of his ability.
I will sign his book when he has done
his best.
I will attend and take part in pack
meetings with other families.
I will do my best to make the pack go.
Families, we welcome you into Pack [number]. We are
glad to have you with us and wish you well on the
Scouting trail.
On the Cub Scout Trail
(For New Cub Scouts and Families)
Preparation: Make six posters with an emblem for one
of the following on each: Bobcat, Tiger Cub, Wolf, Bear,
Webelos, Arrow of Light.
NARRATOR: Tonight, we are welcoming new families into
our pack and the Scouting program. Will the following
boys and their families please come forward? (Call
the names.)
Were excited to welcome your families into our pack.
You can look forward to fun activities throughout the
years as you travel the Scouting Trail.
(Hand the Bobcat poster to one boy to hold.) Your first
step is to earn the Bobcat badge. This is the first badge
you earn, no matter how old you are when you join
Cub Scouting.
(Hand the Tiger Cub poster to another boy.) If you are
in the first grade or are at least 7 years old, youll work
on the five achievements for the Tiger Cub badge. You
can also complete projects from the 50 electives.
(Hand the Wolf poster to another boy.) If youre in
the second grade or are 8 years old, youll work on 12
achievements for the Wolf badge. You can also complete
electives for Gold and Silver Arrow Points.
(Hand the Bear poster to another boy.) When youre in
third grade or are 9 years old, youll choose 12 achieve-
ments to earn the Bear badge. Just like before, you can
complete additional electives to earn Gold and Silver
Arrow Points.
(Hand the Webelos poster to another boy.) When youre
in fourth grade or are 10 years old, you can explore
20 different hobbies and career-related subjects called
Webelos activity badges. Then after meeting additional
requirements, youll earn your Webelos badge.
(Hand the Arrow of Light poster to another boy.)
Tougher challenges follow as you work toward earning
the Arrow of Light Award, which is the highest award
you can earn in Cub Scouting. Its so special that it is
the only Cub Scout rank that you can wear on your Boy
Scout uniform. It can even be worn as a knot on your
adult leader uniform.
Will the adults please repeat the parents pledge after me:
I will do my best to support my boy,
By guiding him to complete the
achievements to the best of his ability.
I will sign the appropriate book, when
he has done his best.
I will assist his den leader.
I will attend and take part in pack
meetings with other families.
I will do my best to guide him.
We want to welcome you to Pack [number].
7-3
Recipe for Cub Scouting
(For New Boys and Families)
NARRATOR: Will the following boys and their families
please come forward? (Call the names.) Some of you
may know that when you become Boy Scouts, youll be
cooking outdoors a lot. Youll probably have a chance
to do that as a Cub Scout too. To cook a good meal, you
usually start with a recipe. If you dont, youll have to
experiment a lot to get it right.
We have a recipe for Cub Scouting, too. Every ingredi-
ent is important. If we dont put each ingredient in our
Scouting dish, the results would also be questionable.
The ingredients are:
CUB SCOUT 1: Boysthe more the merrier.
CUB SCOUT 2: A bucketful of games, sports, and
academics.
CUB SCOUT 3: Some crafts where we learn to use tools
and make useful things.
CUB SCOUT 4: A bit of seriousness. We learn how to do
our duty to God and our country.
CUB SCOUT 5: A cupful of trips and hikes. We explore
the world around us.
CUB SCOUT 6: Two barrels of good leaders. We cant
have Cub Scouting without these volunteers.
CUB SCOUT 7: And a family for each boy.
NARRATOR: This is the most important ingredient after
the first onethe boy. Without the families, a pack cant
give you the best of Cub Scouting.
Mix all these ingredients together, and you are sure to
have a great time in Cub Scouting. Welcome to Pack
[number]. (Lead an appropriate applause.)
This Is Cub Scouting (For All Adults)
ADULT 1: Some people think that Cub Scouting is only
for boys, but it isnt. Cub Scouting is for the entire family.
ADULT 2: Families work in Cub Scouting with their
boys. They begin to see their boys play and leisure in a
new light. The Cub Scouting advancement plan builds a
closer relationship among family members.
ADULT 3: Cub Scouts are considerate of others. They
promise to help other people and to do their best.
ADULT 4: Cub Scouting is packed with age-appropriate
challenges for younger boys, and tackling those chal-
lenges leads to the next phase of ScoutingBoy Scouts.
When our Cub Scouts join the Webelos den and earn
the Arrow of Light Award, they are well-prepared to
enter Boy Scouting.
ADULT 5: Cub Scouting works toward strengthening the
home. You and your family will strengthen your home
by living, playing, and growing together.
ADULT 6: Your boy has only a few more years of boyhood
left before he looks away from home for his primary
interests. What you do together now is important.
ADULT 7: Will all families please stand and pledge their
support to Cub Scouting? Please join with the Cub
Scouts in saying the Cub Scout Promise.
8-1
Is It Important to Present Advancement Badges With a
Ceremony? 8-2
Adapting Ceremonies, 8-2
Advancement Props, 8-2
Ceremonies
Key to Cub Scouting, 8-2
Tiger Tracks, 8-3
Jungle Book, 8-3
Airplane, 8-3
Baseball, 8-4
Fishing for Advancement, 8-4
Fitness, 8-5
Knights of the Round Table, 8-5
Mountain Climbing, 8-5
Our Flag, 8-6
Pinewood Derby, 8-6
CHAPTER 8
Advancement
Ceremonies
Advancement Ceremonies
8-2
Radio Station C-U-B-S, 8-7
Swimming, 8-7
Wagon Train, 8-8
Painted Paws, 8-8
History of Cub Scouting, 8-9
Inventions and Computers, 8-10
Climbing the Ladder, 8-11
Meaning of the Blue and Gold, 8-11
Six Steps to Boy Scouting, 8-11
Woodworking, 8-13
Yule Log, 8-13
Top of the Mountain, 8-13
Spirit of Scouting, 8-14
Is It Important to Present
Advancement Badges
With a Ceremony?
The answer to this question is, YES! Boys have worked
hard to complete the advancement requirements and
feel a sense of accomplishment that they have reached
their goal. When their efforts are recognized in an
impressive ceremony, they are proud and inspired to
accomplish even more. Other boys in the pack are also
motivated to work harder and complete the achieve-
ments toward their next award. If the awards were just
handed to the boy with a handshake and congratula-
tions, there could be a sense of disappointment and a
question about whether the badge is really such a big
deal. Dont let this happen to boys in your pack. Keep
the ceremonies effective and fun, and there will always
be time to celebrate the accomplishments of boys at
each pack meeting.
Adapting Ceremonies
Depending on the advancements that you have for each
months pack meeting, youll need to adapt these cer-
emonies to fit your needs.
You can delete any section that relates to a badge
that you are not presenting or change that section to
a narrative form in place of the badge presentation.
Use your imagination to make the ceremonies work
for you.
A variety of leaders can be involved in the advance-
ment ceremony. You can use an advancement chair,
the Cubmaster, assistant Cubmasters, den leaders, den
chiefs, and pack trainers.
Use simple props and costumes to enhance your cer-
emonies. Tie in the Core Value being focused on for
the month. The Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide
has ideas for advancement ceremonies that relate to
the Core Values. Cub Scout roundtables will also have
suggestions and examples.
Be creative and write your own ceremoniesand
then send them to the Boy Scouts of America,
Innovation Team, using the form in the appendix.
Be sensitive to boys who have difficulty reciting in
front of a group. All of us have had the experience of
forgetting something when we are put on the spot,
even if we know it well. Make sure that boys recite the
Cub Scout Promise and Law of the Pack in a group. If
a single boy is receiving an award, have the pack stand
and join him in reciting the Cub Scout Promise.
Advancement Props
Remember to consider ease of use and storage when
designing your props. Youll find ideas for pack ceremony
equipment in the Cub Scout Leader How-To Book and
Cub Scout Leader Book. Use your imagination to develop
your own props and equipment.
Key to Cub Scouting
(Bobcat)
Materials: An oversized key cut out and painted gold
with Scout Spirit written on it and smaller keys for
each boy receiving the Bobcat badge
NARRATOR: We have some boys with us today who
recently joined the Scouting program. Will [Names] and
their families please come forward?
The Scouting program provides you with many chal-
lenges. You attend weekly den meetings and monthly
pack meetings. You work on advancement requirements
at home with your family and also with your den.
You should set your sights on the Arrow of Light Award
early. There is a key to achieving this goal, and it is the
key to Scouting. Do you know what it is? (Wait for
responses and point at the key you are holding.) The
key to Scouting is Scout Spirit. Scout Spirit includes
teamwork, fair play, and good sportsmanship. It includes
that something special that makes a Scout want to be
the best he can be at everything he does. This key will
unlock the door to your achievement.
Remember that with this key to Scouting, you can now
begin to walk the Scouting trail. The first step is the
Bobcat badge that you are receiving tonight. I will
present this badge to your families because of the help
they have given you. (Present badges to families.)
8-3
Tiger Tracks
(Tiger Cub)
Preparation: Put each Tiger Cubs tiger track beads on
a string and attach them to a card that has a tiger paw
drawn on it.
CUBMASTER: Several of the Tiger Cubs in our pack have
earned tiger tracks. A Tiger Cub earns a tiger track bead
for every 10 electives that he completes. There are sev-
eral choices for electives that help broaden the boys
horizons. Would these Tiger Cubs please come forward?
(Call names and present awards.) Lets give these Tiger
Cubs a big Tiger cheer: Youre great!
Jungle Book
(Bobcat, Wolf Cub Scout, Bear Cub Scout)
NARRATOR: The moon is full, just as it was long ago on
that night in the jungle when Mowgli the man-cub first
joined the Seeonee wolf pack. It has been many years
since Mowgli returned from living with the wolves. He has
taught us many of the lessons he learned while in the jun-
gle. The most important fact was that the strength of the
wolf is the pack. And the strength of the pack is the wolf.
That is why we are here tonight in this pack council ring.
For Bobcats:
NARRATOR: Tonight, we have young boys who want to
join this pack. Before they join, we must be sure they
know the Promise, the Law of the Pack, and the signs
that we use. Families, please bring forward the man-cubs
who wish to be Bobcats. (Call their names.)
You have studied the Cub Scout Promise. Are you ready
to make that promise now in front of the pack? (Bobcat
candidates agree.) Please make the Cub Scout sign with
your right hand and say the Cub Scout Promise with me:
I, [Name], promise to do my best, to do my duty to God
and my country, to help other people, and to obey the
Law of the Pack.
We mentioned the Law of the Pack. This is the law that
binds us all together. Will all the Cub Scouts and families
who are here tonight, please stand, give the Cub Scout sign,
and repeat the Law of the Pack with us: The Cub Scout
follows Akela. The Cub Scout helps the pack go. The pack
helps the Cub Scout grow. The Cub Scout gives goodwill.
Pack, please be seated. (Pause.) You are now Bobcats
in our pack. Families, present this badge to your boys.
Pack, look well on your new brothers and know them.
Congratulations! Please be seated.
For Wolf Cub Scouts:
NARRATOR: In the jungle, Mowgli was protected by
Bagheera, the inky black panther, and was taught the
ways of the jungle by Baloo, the great brown bear. We
have several boys in our pack who have learned much
from Baloos teaching. We will welcome these boys to
the rank of Wolf. Families, please bring forward these
man-cubs. (Call their names.)
These man-cubs have learned the meaning behind the Cub
Scout Promise and the Law of the Pack. They have seen
their den mates grow strong as they have helped each
other. Families, please present this badge to your boys.
Bear Cub Scouts, do you accept the challenge to continue
to study the ways of Baloo? (Wolf candidates agree.)
Congratulations! Please be seated.
For Bear Cub Scouts:
NARRATOR: Baloo, the sleepy brown bear, continued
to teach Mowgli the laws of the jungle. We have some
boys in our pack who have passed further tests and are
ready to receive the badge of the Bear tonight. Will their
families and den leader please bring them forward. (Call
their names.)
(To the den leader) Baloo, you once spoke to Akela in
Mowglis behalf so that he could join the pack. Have
these boys learned the Law of the Pack? (Den leader
replies that they have.) Lets hear them! (Bear candi-
dates recite the Law of the Pack.)
Families, you may present this badge to your boys.
Congratulations! You may be seated.
Lets give a grand howl on behalf of all the boys who
have been recognized for walking farther down the
Scouting trail tonight in the jungle.
Airplane
Materials: Small pilot wings made from cardboard and
covered with foil with the award attached.
NARRATOR: This is your captain speaking. Cub Scout
Airlines flight number (give pack number) has just
taken off for San Francisco, Denver, Chicago, New York,
and Atlanta, and is returning to (your city). We will be
cruising at 35,000 feet. The weather is clear and calm,
and we are expecting a smooth flight.
For Bobcats:
NARRATOR: While we are on board today, we want to
recognize our newest passengers, Bobcats (read names).
Will these boys and their families please come up to
the bulkhead. (Call their names again and have their
families present the badge to their boys.)
For Tiger Cubs:
NARRATOR: Some of our passengers have been on
board for less than a year and have earned the Tiger Cub
badge. Will these boys and their adult partners and fami-
lies please come to the front of the plane? (Call their
names and have their families present the badge to
their boys.)
NARRATOR: Some of our passengers have been on board
longer and have earned the Wolf award. Will these boys
and their families please come up to the front of the
plane. (Call their names and have their families present
the badge to their boys.)
8-4
NARRATOR: Several more passengers have earned even
more frequent flyer miles. Will new Bear Cub Scouts
(read names) and their families please come forward.
(Read their names again and have their families
present the badge to their boys.)
For Webelos Scouts:
NARRATOR: Some of our most experienced flyers are
the boys who have earned their Webelos badges tonight.
Will these boys and their families please soar to the
front of the plane? (Call their names and have their
families present the badge to their boys.)
Thank you for joining us on our Cub Scout Airlines flight
today. Once again, check to see that your seatbelt is securely
fastened and return your tray table and seat to their upright
and locked positions as we prepare for landing.
Baseball
Preparation: Lay out bases around the room. Awards will
be presented from each base. Have the pack turn and face
the bases as you reach them. Use large symbols of rank on
walls or have a leader hold them at each base location. The
narrator can wear a baseball hat for a costume.
For Bobcats:
NARRATOR: We have some new Bobcats joining our
team and would like them to come forward with
their families to the on-deck circle. (Call the names.)
Welcome to Pack [number]! You are just getting started
in this Cub Scout game, and were thrilled that you have
learned the rules of the game. Will your families please
pin this Bobcat badge on your uniform. (Present Bobcat
badges to families for their boys.)
For Tiger Cubs:
NARRATOR: Several Tiger Cubs are ready to step up to home
plate. Will the following boys and their families please come
forward. (Call names.) You have worked in your den and
in your home to complete requirements for the Tiger Cub
badge. The support you received at home from your families
and adult partner was important to your success. (Present
Tiger Cub badges to families for their boys.)
NARRATOR: Several Wolf Cub Scouts have reached first
base! Will the following boys and their families please
come forward. (Call the names.) Your dedication and
practice have paid off. Will your first-base coaches
please pin this badge on your uniform. (Present Wolf
badges to families for their boys.)
NARRATOR: Others on our team have reached second
base! Will the following boys and their families please
report to the second base area. (Call the names of the
boys receiving the Bear badge.) Congratulations on
hitting each of those achievements straight on for your
Bear badge! Will your families please pin this award on
your team uniform. (Present Bear badges to families
for their boys.)
For Webelos Scouts:
NARRATOR: Reaching third base requires extra effort,
and some of our Webelos Scouts have given it all they
have. Will the following boys and their families please
come forward. (Call the names of the boys receiving the
Webelos badge.) Each base is more difficult to reach, but
you have let nothing stop your slide. Well done! (Present
Webelos badges to families for their boys.)
Some of our boys are nearing homethe Arrow of
Light. As you continue to do your best, I know well be
seeing you there after you have hit your grand slam!
Fishing for Advancement
Preparation: Make six sizes of fishone size for each
rank. Put a large sheet of blue paper on the wall behind
the area where the awards are presented. This represents
an ocean or lake. Have the boys tape their fish in the
water after they have received their award.
For Bobcats:
NARRATOR: Small fish start out by learning how to
maneuver in water, just as our beginning Cub Scouts
learn about Cub Scouting. The first step in Cub Scouting
is that of a Bobcat. (Read the names and have the boys
and their families come forward. Families present the
badge to their boys. The boys then place their fish on
the wall.)
For Tiger Cubs:
NARRATOR: Our small fish grows larger. He finds and
learns about new food sources just as our Cub Scout
learns new skills while earning the Tiger Cub badge.
(Read the names and have the boys and their families
come forward. Families present the badge to their boys.
The boys then place their fish on the wall.)
NARRATOR: Our small fish grows stronger and larger. He
finds new food sources and discovers new areas just like
our Cub Scout does in earning the rank of Wolf. (Read
the names and have the boys and their families come
forward. Families present the badge to their boys.
NARRATOR: Our fish has grown into a larger fish. He has
moved into deeper water and is learning to swim faster
and travel farther. Just like the fish, our Cub Scout has
met more challenges and has earned the rank of Bear.
(Read the names and have the boys and their families
come forward. Families present the badge to their boys.
For Webelos Scouts:
NARRATOR: Our fish continues to grow. He now has the
confidence and perseverance to move into deeper waters,
just as our Webelos Scouts have persevered to earn the
Webelos badge. (Read the names and have the boys and
their families come forward. Families present the badge
to their boys. The boys place their fish on the wall.)
8-5
For Arrow of Light Award:
NARRATOR: Our Webelos Scout, by earning the Arrow of
Light Award, has learned much about the school he swims
with and is almost ready to move into a bigger school
that of Boy Scouting. (Read the names and have the boys
and their families come forward. Families present the
badge to their boys. The boys place their fish on the wall.)
We are proud of each of you, as you have learned to
swim with the pack.
Fitness
Materials: Headbands and wristbands for narrator
and leader, sports equipment such as a tennis racket
or basketball.
NARRATOR: There are many ways to get into shape.
There are personal exercise plans, team sports, and even
competition. All must be started slowly, be done on a
regular basis, and be challenging for you.
LEADER: The Cub Scout program includes physical fitness
as an important part of its program. Each rank has age-
appropriate requirements for the boys eligible to earn it.
NARRATOR: Good physical shape also requires good
mental shape. Stepping into shape is like stepping up
the Scouting trail. They both make you look and feel
better and can be fun. Today, were going to honor some
boys who have begun taking those steps to get into
shape on the Cub Scout trail.
LEADER: Will the following Cub Scouts and their family
coaches please step right up. (Call the names of
the Bobcats.)
NARRATOR: The Bobcat is a person just beginning to get
into shape. He is learning the routine and practicing the
steps. Families, please present these awards to your boys.
(Present Bobcat badges to families to give to their boys.)
LEADER: Another group of boys has been working hard
to get into shape and is ready to advance along the Cub
Scouting trail. Will the following Cub Scouts and their
families come forward. (Call the names of Tiger Cubs.)
NARRATOR: The Tiger Cub has been practicing his skills
with his den and his family. He is ready to earn the second
rank on the Cub Scouting trail. Families, please present
these Tiger Cub badges to your boys. (Present Tiger Cub
badges to families to present to their boys.)
LEADER: Several boys have taken the next step to
improve their physical fitness, and they are ready to
advance along the Scouting trail. Will the following
Cub Scouts and their families please step up. (Call the
names of the Wolf Cub Scouts.)
NARRATOR: These boys are advancing in their fitness
every day. They are following the program set up by
their coaches and have earned the third rank in Cub
Scouting, the Wolf. Families, please give these badges to
your boys. (Present Wolf badges to families to give to
their boys.)
LEADER: Our Bear candidates have accepted new chal-
lenges and continue to develop their physical and men-
tal skills. Will the following Cub Scouts and their families
please come forward. (Call the names of the Bear Cub
Scouts.)
NARRATOR: To reach this step, it takes a dedication to
reaching the goal. Families, please give the Bear badge
to your boy. (Present Bear badges to families to give to
their boys.)
LEADER: Webelos Scouts have been competing in a
series of tests called activity badges. Will the following
Webelos Scouts and their families please come forward.
(Call the names of the Webelos Scouts.)
NARRATOR: The tests of the activity badges have given
you new challenges to improve your mental and physi-
cal skills. You have given your best! Will your families
please attach your Webelos badge. (Present Webelos
badges to families to give to their boys.)
Congratulations to all of you who have given your
personal best to reach these goals!
Knights of the Round Table
NARRATOR: In our Cub Scouting kingdom, several of
our knights have performed tasks so well that they are
worthy of special recognition.
Will the following boys and their families please come
forward. (Call the names of the new Bobcats.) These
Cub Scouts are worthy of the order of the Bobcat. In the
name of Akela, your families will present you with your
badge of knighthood.
forward. (Call the names of those receiving Tiger Cub
badges.) These Cub Scouts are worthy of the order of
the Tiger Cub. In the name of Akela, your families will
present you with your badge of knighthood.
forward. (Call the names of those receiving Wolf
the Wolf. In the name of Akela, your families will present
you with your badge of knighthood.
forward. (Call the names of those receiving Bear badg-
es.) These Cub Scouts are worthy of the order of the
Bear. In the name of Akela, your families will present you
with your badge of knighthood.
forward. (Call the names of those receiving Webelos
the Webelos. In the name of Akela, your families will
present you with your badge of knighthood.
May you all carry with you the true spirit of the Cub
Scouting kingdom.
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Mountain Climbing
NARRATOR: Just as mountain climbers love to challenge
mountains, Cub Scouts challenge the mountain of Scouting.
For Bobcats:
NARRATOR: Bobcats, you stand at the foot of the moun-
tain. You are just embarking on your journey. You have
many exciting adventures ahead of you on the Cub
Scout trail. Will the following new Bobcats please come
forward with their families. (Call the names and pres-
ent the badges to families to give to their boys.)
For Tiger Cubs:
NARRATOR: As Tiger Cubs, you have reached the first
plateau of Scouting. You might feel that you havent
gone far yet, but you have accomplished many things.
Doing your best at each task is what it takes to reach
the top of the mountain of Scouting. Will the following
new Tiger Cubs please come forward with their families.
(Call the names and present the badges to families to
give to their boys.)
NARRATOR: Wolf Cub Scouts, you are almost halfway
up the mountain. Some of you might have slipped on
the ropes on the way up, but you have all found secure
ground in receiving your badge today. Will the following
new Wolf Cub Scouts please come forward with their
families. (Call the names and present the badges to
families to give to their boys.)
NARRATOR: Bear Cub Scouts, you have now come far
enough up the mountain to feel that the air is thinner
and there are fewer and fewer trees. You still have more
ridges to climb, and your fellow climbers and leaders
will be there to help and guide you. Will the following
new Bear Cub Scouts please come forward with their
families. (Call the names and present the badges to
For Webelos Scouts:
NARRATOR: Webelos, you are now hiking above the
tree line, and the sense of accomplishment you feel has
made the trip worthwhile. The summit of the mountain
looms before you and the skills you have gained have
prepared you for what lies ahead. Will the following
Webelos Scouts please come forward with their families
to receive their Webelos badge. (Call the names and
present the badges to families to give to their boys.)
Scouts, looking up, you see the summit of the mountain of
Cub Scoutingthe Arrow of Light Award. The higher you
climb, the more determined you are to reach the peak.
Our Flag
Preparation: Move the U.S. flag next to the advance-
ment ceremony area.
NARRATOR: Our countrys flag is made up of several
parts, like the Cub Scout program.
Our flag contains the color white. White is a clean, new
color. New Cub Scouts, who become Bobcats and Tiger
Cubs, bring fresh and clean enthusiasm into our pack.
To represent the white in our pack, I would like to ask
the new Cub Scouts and their families to come forward.
(Call the names and ask the families to give the badges
to the boys.)
Red is also found in our flag. Red is a lively, active color.
Representing the red are the new Wolf Cub Scouts of
our pack. Will the following boys and their families
please come forward. (Call the names and ask the
families to give the badges to the boys.)
Our flag also has a field of blue. Blue is an older and
wiser color. These are the same qualities that are seen in
the Bear Cub Scouts of our pack. Will the following boys
and their families please come forward. (Call the names
and ask the families to give the badges to the boys.)
It is important to have something to fly the flag from, too.
A flagpole will provide a strong support and base for our
countrys colors. Boys who are working on their Webelos
badge provide strong support for our pack. Will the
following boys and their families please come forward.
(Call the names and ask the families to give the badges
to the boys.)
Of course, you cant forget the stars on our flag. Cub
Scouts who reach the Arrow of Light Award are stars
in every sense of the word. This award can be worn on
their Boy Scout uniform and as a knot on their adult
Scouting uniform. Lets all reach for the star in Scouting.
Pinewood Derby
(This ceremony can also be easily adapted for the space
derby or raingutter regatta.)
Preparation: Have small posters with the emblem of
each rank on them. Attach the posters to the side of the
pinewood derby track starting with the Bobcat at the
bottom and the Arrow of Light at the top.
NARRATOR: We had a wonderful time today watching
the pinewood derby cars race down this track. They
really speed downhill, dont they? Did you know you
could go uphill on this same track? Its a little harder, but
its worthwhile to make the trek from Bobcat, to Tiger
Cub, to Wolf, to Bear, to Webelos, and finally to Arrow of
Light. Pack [number] has been climbing this course, and
now were going to report on the new positions that
our cars have taken in the lineup.
Will the following Cub Scouts who have made the climb
as far as Bobcat this past month, please come forward
with their families? (Call the names and ask the fami-
lies to give the badges to the boys.)
as far as Tiger Cub this past month, please come forward
with their families? (Call the names and ask the fami-
lies to give the badges to their boys.)
8-7
as far as Wolf this past month, please come forward with
their families? (Call the names and ask the families to
give the badges to the boys.)
as far as Bear this past month, please come forward with
their families? (Call the names and ask the families to
as far as Webelos this past month, please come forward
with their families? (Call the names and ask the families
to give the badges to the boys.)
Will the following Cub Scouts please come forward
with their families. (Call the names and ask them to
come forward with their families.) Congratulations.
You have reached the top of the track. The checkered
flag has been waved and you have achieved the Arrow
of Light Award. (Have families present the badges to
the boys.)
Congratulations on your current standings! Keep the
checkered flag in your sights!
Radio Station C-U-B-S
Materials: Two hand-held microphones (real or made
from paper towel tubes).
NARRATOR: This is radio station C-U-B-S reporting live
today from the meeting of Pack [number]. Tonight, sev-
eral of our new listeners have earned awards. Lets wel-
come them now!
Will the following Bobcat candidates and their families
join us on stage. (Call the names.) Cub Scouts, will you
please show that you are ready to receive your Bobcat
badges by joining me in the Cub Scout Promise?I,
[Name], promise to do my best, to do my duty to God
Law of the Pack.
Its my pleasure to present your Bobcat badges to your
families to pin on your shirts.
LEADER: This is the radio station C-U-B-S mobile unit out on
the Cub Scout trail. Weve spotted several Cub Scouts who
have reached the Tiger Cub level. Ill send the following
Scouts and their families to your location. (Call the names.)
NARRATOR: Were glad that you have completed the 12
achievements to reach the rank of Wolf. Your families
will have the honor of presenting your new badges.
LEADER: Believe it or not, some new Bears have been
spotted in the vicinity! Will the following Bear Cub Scout
candidates and their families please come forward. (Call
the names.)
NARRATOR: Congratulations on doing your best to
complete the requirements needed for the rank of Bear!
Will your families please present this award.
LEADER: Im about to return to the radio station, but Ive
located one more group weve been searching for. The fol-
lowing Webelos Scouts have earned the Webelos badge!
(Call the names.)
NARRATOR: These Webelos Scouts have been complet-
ing Webelos activity badges and other requirements to
receive this once-in-a-lifetime badge. Will your families
please present this award.
This is radio station C-U-B-S signing off the air but inviting
you to stay tuned to great Cub Scouting. Well meet you
right back here at station [packs number] next month!
Swimming
NARRATOR: Water safety is an important subject for us.
For Bobcats:
NARRATOR: Before you can learn to swim, you have to
be willing to venture out into the water. We have some
boys who have just begun to test the waters of Cub
Scouting and have earned their Bobcat badge. Will the
(Call the names and ask the families to present the
badges to the boys.)
For Tiger Cubs:
NARRATOR: As beginning swimmers, we learn to put
our faces in the water. We work on getting used to the
water so we can be comfortable and safe in it. We have
some beginning Cub Scouts who are getting used to
the Cub Scout program and have earned their Tiger Cub
badge. Will the following boys and their families please
come forward. (Call the names and ask the families to
NARRATOR: The next thing we learn in swimming is how
to float. We have several Cub Scouts who have earned the
Wolf badge and are able to float on their own in the Cub
Scout program. Will the following boys and their families
NARRATOR: Our next step is to learn to kick and propel
ourselves through the water. We have several boys who
have earned the rank of Bear and have mastered the
kick that propels them through the Cub Scout program.
forward. (Call the names and ask the families to give
the badges to the boys.)
For Webelos Scouts:
NARRATOR: After learning how to kick, we have to
learn strokes with our arms. Learning to coordinate
kicking, breathing, and arm strokes is a challenge. Today,
we have some boys who have been able to coordinate
their requirements and activity badges to earn the rank
of Webelos. Will the following boys and their families
8-8
Learning to swim and the world of Scouting open up a
whole new world for our boys and families.
Wagon Train
NARRATOR: To the wagon trains heading west, the trip
was definitely a challenge. The days were long, the road
was rough, and the food was sometimes barely edible.
The pioneers traveled in groups so they could help
each other, working as a team, with each person having
responsibilities according to his or her skills.
Walking alongside the wagon train are the Bobcats and
Tiger Cubs. (Call the names and have the boys and
their families come forward. Families give the badge
to their boys.)
Our new Wolf Cub Scouts are in charge of the horses
and oxen that pull the wagons. They are the future
strength of our wagon train. (Call the names and have
the boys and their families come forward. Families
give the badge to their boys.)
Honing their skills, our new Bear Cub Scouts have
proved their ability to meet the demands of the trail and
to seek out new adventures. (Call the names and have
the boys and their families come forward. Families
give the badge to their boys.)
Webelos are the Scouts for our group. Their knowledge
and experience set the goals of achievement for the
pack and give continuity to our crew. (Call the names
and have the boys and their families come forward.
Families give the badge to their boys.)
Ladies and gentlemen, its time to hit the trail again!
The trail can be long and tiring, but as long as we work
together, well reach our destination. Im proud to travel
with this group. Westward, ho!
Painted Paws
(Wolf, Bear, Webelos Scout, Arrow of Light)
Materials: Marking pens in colors: black for Wolf Cub
Scouts; brown for Bear Cub Scouts; blue, gold, green, and
red for Webelos; blue and gold for Arrow of Light; and
pieces of vinyl or cardstock to draw the paws for paint-
ing. Bolo ties, badges, or necklaces could be made.
NARRATOR: When a boy joins our Cub Scout pack, he
earns the Bobcat badge and starts on the Scouting trail.
This trail will lead him through Bobcat, Tiger Cub, Wolf,
Bear, Webelos, and finally to the highest award of Cub
Scouting, the Arrow of Light. Tonight we are honoring
boys who have earned advancement during their journey.
please come forward. (Call the names of Wolf badge
recipients.) Do you seek the rank of Wolf? (They reply,
Yes.) Please recite with me the Cub Scout Promise: I,
[Name], promise to do my best, to do my duty to God
Law of the Pack.
I can see by your knowledge of the Cub Scout Promise
and the achievements you have completed that you
have worked hard along with your families. These
achievements are important because they have helped
you gain a deeper appreciation of many things. You are
now ready to wear the mark of the wolf paw. (The den
leader draws the following marks on the boys vinyl
badges with a black marking pen.)
The first toe of the wolf is for your growth through feats
of skills and having fun with your families. (Draw the
first toe in black.)
The second toe of the wolf paw represents what you
have learned about your home, community, and country
as well as learning more about your religious beliefs.
(Draw the second toe in black.)
The third toe of the wolf paw stands for the skills you
have gained in handling tools, tying things, and making
collections. (Draw the third toe in black.)
The fourth toe of the wolf paw represents your new
appreciation for conservation as well as safety in home
and traffic. (Draw the fourth toe in black.)
The pad of the wolf paw represents your growth as
a Cub and the increased responsibility you are now
capable of carrying. (Draw the pad in black.)
Wolf cubs, remember the inscription of this paw. It
shows you are ready to move along the Scouting trail.
Families, please give these badges to your boys.
NARRATOR: Today, we have some Cub Scouts who have
worked hard to achieve the rank of Bear. Will the follow-
ing boys and their families please come forward. (Call
the names of the Bear badge recipients.)
You are climbing the trail to reach the honor of Arrow
of Light in Cub Scouting and the rank of Eagle in Boy
Scouting. To help you on your journey, we will inscribe
you with the paw of the bear. (The den leader draws
the following marks on the boys vinyl badges with a
brown marking pen.)
The first toe of the bear paw symbolizes your increased
understanding of God. (Draw the brown circle of the
first toe.)
The second toe of the bear paw symbolizes your knowl-
edge of your country, its folklore and heritage. (Draw
the brown circle of the second toe.)
The third toe of the bear paw, shows your increased
appreciation of your family and its value. (Draw the
brown circle of the third toe.)
The fourth toe of the bear paw stands for your increased
understanding of your self-worth. (Draw the brown
circle of the fourth toe.)
The fifth toe of the bear paw represents your knowl-
edge of the Law of the Pack. (Draw the brown circle of
the fifth toe.)
8-9
The palm of the bear paw represents your growth as a
Cub Scout, and the increased responsibility you carry.
(Draw the brown palm of the paw.)
The climb is getting shorter but steepernot everyone
will finish. Follow the guidelines of the Law of the Pack
so that you will be safe along the trail. Congratulations
to you and your families for your hard work. (Present
the badges to families to give to their boys.)
For Webelos Scouts:
NARRATOR: Webelos stands for WEll BE LOyal Scouts.
Will the following Webelos Scouts and their families
please come forward. (Call the names of the Webelos
badge recipients.)
The Webelos badge signifies a major step on the path of
Cub Scouting on your way to Arrow of Light Award and
into Boy Scouting. We will be painting you with the col-
ors of the Webelos Scout neckerchief. (The Webelos den
leader draws the following marks on the boys vinyl
badges with blue, gold, green, and red marking pens.)
The first blue dot represents the three activity badges
you have earned as an active member of your Webelos
den. (Draw a blue dot on the back of the hand.)
The second blue dot stands for your understanding of the
Webelos badge and uniform. (Draw a second blue dot.)
The third dot shows that you understand and intend to
live by the Scout Oath, the Scout Law, the Scout motto,
and the Scout slogan. (Draw a third blue dot.)
The fourth blue dot shows that you know the Scout
salute, the Scout sign, and the Scout handshake and that
you know when to use them. (Draw a fourth blue dot
below the top three.)
The fifth blue dot represents your agreement to follow the
Outdoor Code. (Draw a fifth blue dot below the top three.)
Two Vs will now connect these dots. The first V stands
for the flag ceremony you have led. (Connect the two
dots on top with one lower blue dot to make one side
of the W.) The second V represents the practice of your
religious faith. (Draw a second V connecting the two
dots on top with the other lower dot, completing the W.)
The letter that has been formed is a W, symbolic of the
total effort you have made to attain your Webelos badge.
The Webelos colors are gold, green, and red. These col-
ors represent the Scouting program. Gold represents the
Cub Scout program. Gold is the color of the sun and will
light your way along the Scouting trail. (Draw a gold
line under the W.)
Red represents the Boy Scout program. Red stands for
your heart so that you will have a burning desire to
scout new areas. (Draw a red line under the gold one.)
Green represents the Venturing program. Green stands
for the tree so that you will stand tall as you venture
onward. (Draw a green line under the red one.)
Wear your Webelos badge proudly as you continue to
work toward your Arrow of Light Award. (Present the
badges to families to give to their boys.)
For Arrow of Light Recipients:
NARRATOR: Today, we have some Webelos Scouts who
have earned Cub Scoutings highest award. Will the fol-
lowing Scouts and their families, please come forward?
(Call the names of Arrow of Light recipients.)
Our pack honors you for the work you have done. You
have earned your Webelos badge and have been active
in your Webelos den. You can now repeat from memory
the Scout Oath and the 12 points of the Scout Law. You
practice them in your everyday life. You know the Scout
motto, slogan, sign, salute, and handshake and what they
stand for. You understand the different parts of the Scout
badge and know what they represent. You know the parts
of the Boy Scout uniform and have visited a Boy Scout
troop. You have attended a Boy Scoutoriented outdoor
activity. You have participated in a Webelos den over-
night campout or day hike and have shown an interest
in becoming a Boy Scout. In earning the Arrow of Light
Award, you have shown that you have done your best.
To show this, we will mark your special badge with the
Arrow of Light. (A Webelos den leader makes markings
on the back of the boys vinyl badges.)
The color blue stands for the spirit of Cub Scouting, and
this arrow shows the way of the Scouting trail. (Draw a
long arrow in blue.)
The color gold stands for the rays of the sun and is used
to show the seven virtues of life. (Draw a curved yellow
line for the sun.) The first ray represents wisdom. (Draw
the first yellow ray.) The second ray stands for courage.
(Draw the second yellow ray.) The third ray shows your
self-control. (Draw the third yellow ray.) The fourth ray
is for justice. (Draw the fourth yellow ray.) The fifth ray
is for faith. (Draw the fifth yellow ray.) The sixth ray is
for hope. (Draw the sixth yellow ray.) The seventh ray is
for love. (Draw the seventh yellow ray.)
These seven virtues will help you lead a happy and
successful life. Will your families please present your
Arrow of Light Award. (Present the badges to families.)
Congratulations!
History of Cub Scouting
NARRATOR: We all have heard that William Boyce
started the Boy Scouts of America after he was helped
in a London fog by a boy who refused a tip because he
was a Scout. Mr. Boyce was so impressed by this boy
and his talk with Lord Baden-Powell that he helped start
the Boys Scouts of America, which was incorporated on
February 8, 1910.
Almost as soon as Scouting began, younger boys started
clamoring for a chance to participate in Scouting. This
resulted in the Wolf Cub program being started in
England in 1916. As we read in the Wolf HandBook, the
8-10
basis for much of this program came from The Jungle
Book by Rudyard Kipling, who was a friend of Baden-
Powells. This book is the story of two wolves that find a
man-cub who is being hunted by Shere Khan, the tiger.
They take in the boy and raise him as part of their fam-
ily. He is named Mowgli, which means frog.
The wolves are part of a pack that is led by Akela, the
great gray wolf. New cubs must be presented to the
wolf pack for acceptance. If they are not accepted by
two members of the pack, they are turned away. When
Mowgli was presented to the council, none of the other
wolves would speak for him. Baloo, the kindly brown
bear who taught the wolves the law of the jungle, stood
up and said, I will speak for the man-cub. When no one
else spoke, Bagheera, the black panther, rose and offered
to pay the price of one bull if the man-cub would be
accepted into the pack. And so it was that Mowgli
became a part of the Seeonee wolf pack, for the price of
a bull and on Baloos good word.
For Bobcats:
NARRATOR: In looking back at old Cub Scout books, we
are reminded that the Cub Scout program has survived
with very little change. In a 1930 Cub Scout book, the
rules for becoming a Bobcat were: He has taken the Cub
Scout Promise, explained and repeated the Law of the
Pack, explained the meaning of the ranks, shown the Cub
sign and handclasp, given the Cub motto and salute.
Today, as Bobcats, we do most of the same requirements.
When Akela says that we are ready, we are presented to
the pack for acceptance and recognition.
Will the following Cub Scouts and their families please
come forward. (Call the names of the Bobcats and
Just as the wolf cubs learned about the world around
them by taking short trips into the woods, so have our
own Bobcats grown in their understanding of nature
and their families.
For Tiger Cubs:
When Tiger Cubs began in 1982, boys worked on Big
Ideas rather than badges. Their uniform was a T-shirt,
and they earned iron-on Tiger Paws to be placed on that
shirt. Today, Tiger Cubs work on achievement in their
dens and with their family to earn a badge just like the
Cub Scout ranks.
Will the following Tiger Cubs and their families please
come forward. (Call the names of Tiger Cub badge
recipients and present the badges to families to give to
their boys.)
For Wolf Cub Scouts and Arrow Points:
NARRATOR: Will the following Cub Scouts and their
families please come forward. (Call the names of the
Wolf recipients and present the badges to families to
give to their boys.) Originally, only two Arrow Points
could be earned for each rank. The first 10 electives
earned the Gold Honor Arrow Point, and the next 10
earned the silver rank. Today, we award the Gold Arrow
Point for the first 10 electives completed and Silver
Arrow Points for each 10 additional electives that Wolf
and Bear Cub Scouts complete. Will the following boys
please come forward. (Call the names and present the
Arrow Points.)
NARRATOR: Baloo, the kindly brown bear, taught the
young wolves the secret names of the trees, the calls of
the birds, and the language of the air. Each of you has
learned to help others in your den meet the require-
ments for the Bear badge. Will the following Cub Scouts
and their families please come forward. (Call the names
of the Bear badge recipients and present the badges to
For Webelos Scouts:
NARRATOR: Until 1967, the next rank was Lion. It
was then changed to Webelos, and the program was
expanded. Webelos was a word used since 1930 to mean,
WEll BE LOyal Scouts. The Webelos colors and 15
activity badges were added. A new Webelos badge was
introducedthe emblem we know today as the Arrow of
Light. In 1978, the Webelos badge was reinvented and a
new rank was introduced, the Arrow of Light.
The Webelos program is a transition from Cub Scouts
to Boy Scouts. To achieve the Webelos badge, Webelos
Scouts earn activity badges, learn many of the Boy Scout
rank requirements, and are encouraged to get involved
in religious and community activities.
Will the following Webelos Scouts and their families
please come forward. (Call the names of the Webelos
recipients and present the badges to families to give to
their boys.)
For Arrow of Light Recipients:
The Arrow of Light Award is the highest award in Cub
Scouting. It can also be worn on the Boy Scout uniform
in recognition of your achievement. Will the following
Webelos Scouts and their families please come forward.
(Call the names of the Arrow of Light recipients and
You wont want to stop here because the trail leads on
to Boy Scouting and great new adventures.
Inventions and Computers
Preparation: Decorate a box so that it looks like a
computer and monitor and place it on a table. Include
slots for inserting large cards you make to represent
each Cub Scout rank that you will award and hidden
flaps that open. Store badges and awards behind these
flaps. Cover the computer with a sheet.
NARRATOR: Weve been talking about inventions today,
and Id like to share my newest invention. (Unveil the
computer.) This amazing device is able to collect all the
information that comes in from our pack committee
members, den leaders, and families. It can then deter-
8-11
mine which Cub Scouts have earned awards. Allow me
to demonstrate. (Hold up a Bobcat card and insert it
into slot in machine. Then remove Bobcat badges from
a hidden flap that opens.)
Will the following Cub Scouts and their families please
come forward. (Call the names and present the badges
to families to give to their boys. Follow the same proce-
dure for each rank or award.) These young men have
worked long and hard to achieve these goals. What they
have built is not a better mousetrap, but something far
more valuable to the world todaybetter young men.
Congratulations to all of you for doing your best.
Climbing the Ladder
Materials: Ladder advancement board and clothespins
shown on page 3-4.
NARRATOR: Several of our Cub Scouts have climbed the
advancement ladder and have grown in knowledge this
month. Will the following boys and their families please
come forward. (Call the names.) What are some of the
achievements you completed to earn this rank? (Talk to
the boys and families ahead of time so that they will
be prepared. Give them each 30 seconds.)
Will you please move your name to the next level on
the advancement ladder. (Allow time for this.) Your
families are an important part in your advancement,
and it is their honor to present this badge to you.
(Present the badges to families to give to their boys.)
Congratulations!
Meaning of the Blue and Gold
(All Ranks and Arrow Points and
Webelos Activity Badges)
NARRATOR: Blue and gold represent some of what Cub
Scouts learn as they walk the Cub Scout trail.
Gold stands for good cheer. The boys who have learned
the basics of Cub Scouting and have earned their Bobcat
badge and Tiger Cub badge are full of the good cheer of
Cub Scouting. Will the following Cub Scouts and their
families please come forward. (Call the names and
Gold stands for happiness, and no one seems to be more
full of happiness than those who have completed the
12 achievements for the rank of Wolf. Will the following
boys and their families please come forward. (Call the
names and present the badges to families to give to
their boys.) After earning this rank, several boys have
gone on to complete additional electives to earn Gold
and Silver Arrow Points. (Call the names and present
Gold and Silver Arrow Points to families to present to
their boys.)
Blue stands for truth. Truth comes through as a quality in
our Cub Scouts who have completed the achievements
for the rank of Bear. They have learned that Cub Scout
honor is important and that truth is always the best. Will
the following boys and their families please come for-
ward. (Call the names and present the badges to fami-
lies to give to their boys.) After earning this rank, several
boys have gone on to complete additional electives to
earn Gold and Silver Arrow Points. (Call the names and
present the Gold and Silver Arrow Points.)
Another meaning for the color blue is loyalty. This is an
important quality a boy can develop in the process of
becoming a man. Boys who have completed the require-
ments for the Webelos badge are developing this quality.
forward. (Call the names and present the badges to
families to give to their boys.) Several of our Webelos
Scouts have completed activity badges during the past
month. Will the following boys please come forward.
(Call the names and present the badges.)
Arrow of Light candidates prove that they are true to the
gold and the blue by demonstrating the traits of our Cub
Scout colors: good cheer, happiness, truth, and loyalty.
They also show that they are striving toward the quali-
ties of Boy Scouting by being trustworthy, loyal, helpful,
friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave,
clean, and reverent. Will the following boys and their
families please come forward. (Call the names and
Lets show all these boys with a cheer how much we
admire their efforts. (Lead applause.) Whos the best in
blue and gold? Pack [number]!
Six Steps to Boy Scouting
Materials: Holder with six candles or lights.
NARRATOR: We are here tonight to honor Cub Scouts
who have advanced in rank since we last met as a
pack. As he walks the achievement trail, the Cub Scout
achieves many goals. These candles represent steps in his
advancement. Their light stands for the help and encour-
agement given to him by his family, friends, and leaders.
(Light Bobcat candle or light.) First comes the Bobcat,
the beginner. He learns the Cub Scout motto, the Cub
Scout Promise, and the Law of the Pack. He stands with
much enthusiasm on the first step of the advancement
trail. As he climbs this trail, he grows in knowledge, skills,
and fun. Will the following boys and their families please
to families to give to their boys.)
(Light Tiger Cub candle or light.) Next comes the Tiger
Cub. He completes five achievements each in three
areas: Family, Den, and Go See Its. He has learned about
the outdoors, where he lives, and health and safety. Will
the following boys and their families please come for-
ward. (Call the names and present the badges to fami-
lies to give to their boys.)
(Light Wolf candle or light.) Next comes the Wolf Cub
Scout, who completes 12 achievements in reaching the
rank of Wolf. These require knowledge of the flag, about
8-12
fitness, tools, safety, and the environment. He has mas-
tered several feats of skill, has made a collection, and has
accomplished much more. Will the following boys and
their families please come forward. (Call the names and
(Light Bear candle or light.) The Bear Cub Scout com-
pletes 12 achievements that show he is growing in
knowledge and skills. The Bear Cub Scout is proud that
he has climbed more than halfway up the Cub Scout
achievement trail. Will the following boys and their fami-
lies please come forward. (Call the names and present
the badges to families to give to their boys.)
(Light Webelos candle or light.) When a Cub Scout
enters the Webelos den, he begins the final stage of his
climb up the trail. As a Webelos Scout, he works on a
variety of activity badges that challenge him to do new
things. Will the following boys and their families please
(Light Arrow of Light candle or light.) The Arrow of Light
Award is the highest award in Cub Scouting and is the
only Cub Scout rank that a boy may wear on his Boy Scout
uniform. A boy who has earned the Arrow of Light is fully
prepared to enter Boy Scouts. Will the following boys and
their families please come forward. (Call the names and
As we walk this Cub Scout trail, may our steps be guided
by the Cub Scout motto: Do Your Best.
Value of a Badge
NARRATOR: A badge in Cub Scouting is a piece of
embroidered cloth. It might not be worth a lot of money
because the real value of the badge is in what it repre-
sentsthe things you learned to earn it.
For Bobcats:
NARRATOR: We have some boys who are to receive
the badge of Bobcat and take their first step along the
Scouting trail. Will the following boys and their families
please come forward. (Call the names and present
the badges to families to give to their boys.) To earn
the badge of Bobcat, these boys learned the Cub Scout
Promise, the Law of the Pack, the Cub Scout sign, and the
Cub Scout motto. These things are part of the map that
guide you along the Cub Scouting trail. As your families
present this badge, please remember the value of this
badge and the Cub Scout motto to Do Your Best.
For Tiger Cubs:
the badges to families to give to their boys.) As you
worked toward earning your Tiger Cub badge, you
had the opportunity to take Go See Its and to work on
advancement requirements at home and in your den.
You learned about the outdoors, health and safety, and
communication. Congratulations on your achievement.
Think about how your family helped you as your par-
ents present to you the Tiger Cub badge.
badges to families to give to their boys.) As each of you
worked toward your Wolf badge, you had the opportunity
to develop new skills, help at home and in your commu-
nity, and learn respect for our flag. You have completed the
achievements for the Wolf badge. As your families present
this award, think about how you will wear it with pride.
the badges to families to give to their boys.) As you
worked toward your Bear badge, you found that the
challenges became more difficult with each step. We
all experience choices in our lives and must decide
the best path to follow. To achieve the rank of Bear, you
made choices as you selected which requirements to
complete. As your families present this badge, think
about the choices you make in your lives.
For Webelos Scouts:
badges to families to give to their boys.) As each of
you joined the Webelos den, you faced new challenges
and choices in working toward the Webelos badge. Your
Webelos den leader now approves the completion of
your requirements. Achievements are in the form of
activity badges. As your family presents this award to
you, think about the value of the Webelos badge and the
changes that took place while you earned this award.
Arrow of Light:
badges to families to pin on their boys.) The trail to
the Arrow of Light is a long and difficult trail to climb.
It was full of adventure as you stretched to experience
new challenges. Many of the achievements you accom-
plished have prepared you to move into Boy Scouts.
These achievements have been new and varied with
the promise of even greater adventures in the future.
As your family places this award on your uniform, think
about the adventures to come.
The Cub Scout trail is full of the traditions you learn as a
Bobcat, the skills you learn as a Wolf Cub Scout, the choices
you make as a Bear Cub Scout, the changes you experi-
ence as a Webelos Scout, and the adventures that challenge
you while working toward the Arrow of Light. Think of
the value of each badge you have earned. Each badge is a
step-by-step adventure in your life along the Scouting trail.
Remember the value of each of your badges.
8-13
Woodworking
NARRATOR: Woodworkers use tools to transform plain
wood into objects of beauty and usefulness. There are
many steps between beginning to plan your project and
displaying your completed masterpiece.
A woodworker has to start with a plan. Once he has a
plan on paper, he uses the first saws to roughly shape
the wood. Some of our Cub Scouts have earned the
Bobcat badge and Tiger Cub badge that have begun to
shape their Cub Scout experience. Will the following
boys and their families please come forward. (Call the
names and present the badges to families to give to
their boys.)
The woodworkers next step is to finish cutting all the
pieces so that they match the specifications on his plan.
He then completes additional steps such as drilling and
then shaping the edges. We have several Cub Scouts who
have completed the steps for the Wolf badge. Will the
Now the wood pieces are ready for the assembly pro-
cess. This stage requires using dowels, screws, and glue
to assemble the project. Patience and precision are
needed. Some of our Cub Scouts have completed a
tougher set of requirements for the Bear badge. Will the
After the assembly, the surfaces of our project need to
be sanded and prepared for the finishing treatment.
Attention to details like these has led several of our
Scouts to receiving the Webelos badge today. Will the
The finishing touch to a fine piece of furniture is adding
the stain and sealer. Our Arrow of Light recipients have
demonstrated a commitment to becoming master crafts-
men. Will the following boys and their families please
come forward. (Call the names and present the awards
Our Cub Scouts and their families are certainly going to
come out with a masterpiece with this advancement plan!
Yule Log
Materials: A holder with a single candle or light.
NARRATOR: In the England of old, a Yule log was
burned during the dark days of December to bring good
luck. The ashes were then spread around the fruit trees
for a good harvest.
In Germany, the Yule log was lighted at Christmas to
scare away Father Frost.
In France, starting on Christmas Eve, it was an ancient
custom to keep the Yule log burning through the days
of Christmas until Twelfth Night. The log was carefully
tended each night so it would last all 12 days. These cus-
toms were ways of wishing for good luck throughout
the coming year.
forward. (Call the names.) These boys have worked
hard to bring out the Yule spirit by doing their best to
earn their next badge. (Present the badges to families
to give to their boys.)
I am lighting this candle that represents our pack Yule
log as a sign of our joy and to wish each one of you best
wishes and good luck in the coming year.
Top of the Mountain
(Arrow of Light)
NARRATOR: Id like to tell you a story that was first
told by Ernest Thompson Seton, one of the founders of
Scouting in America.
There once was a high mountain that towered above a
village. One day, the elder of the village asked the young
men to start right after breakfast and to climb as high as
they could. Their challenge was to climb until they were
tired and then return with a twig from the place where
they had turned back.
Away they went, filled with enthusiasm. Soon the first
boy came slowly back, carrying a piece of cactus. The
elder smiled and said, My boy, you barely got started. I
like to think that this boy is like a newly inducted Cub
Scout. He has just barely started.
An hour later, the second boy returned carrying a twig of
sagebrush. Well, said the elder, you reached a higher level
but did not start the climb. This boy is like the Cub Scout
who has earned his Bobcat badge. He has progressed on
his journey but has not really started his climb.
After another hour, the third boy came back. He held
out a cottonwood sprig. Good, said the elder, you
reached the springs. This might represent the Cub
Scout who has reached the first level of his climb and
received his Tiger Cub badge.
After a longer wait, another boy came back with some
buckthorn. The elder smiled and spoke: You were
climbing. You were up to the first slide rock. This is like
the Cub Scout who has progressed nearly half way and
has received his Wolf badge.
A while later, another boy came back with some cedar.
The elder smiled and said, Well done, my boy, you went
halfway up. This is like the Cub Scout who has pro-
gressed halfway up the advancement trail and earned
his Bear badge.
Later in the afternoon, the fourth boy returned carrying
a branch of pine. To him the elder said: Good, you went
to the third level. Keep on trying. Next year, you will
8-14 Advancement Ceremonies
surely reach the top. The Cub Scout who has earned his
Webelos badge is in sight of the top.
The sun was gone when the last boy returned. He
approached the elder and held up his empty hand.
He was radiant as he spoke: My leader, there were no
trees where I went. I saw no twigs, no living thing upon
the peak. But far and away, I saw other mountains, and
beyond them, the shining sea.
The elders face glowed as he said: I knew it when I
looked upon your face. It is written in your eyes, and it
rings in your voice. My boy, you need no twigs for token,
you have seen the glory of the mountain.
This boy who reached the peak is like the Webelos
Scout who has reached the topthe Arrow of Light
Award. But, beyond the top are the peaks of Boy
Scouting that must be met and climbed to reach the
shining sea beyond. I would like to now call the names
of the Webelos Scouts and have their families present
them their Arrow of Light Award.
Spirit of Scouting
(Arrow of Light)
Materials: Holder with four candles or lights (blue,
white, yellow, green)
NARRATOR: Will the following Webelos Scouts please
come forward with their families to receive the Arrow
of Light Award. (Call the names.)
You have completed all the requirements for the Arrow
of Light Award, the highest rank in Cub Scouting. You
have also visited a Boy Scout troop and have discovered
some of the excitement that awaits you.
(Webelos den leader lights the blue candle or light.) This
blue candle [light] represents the spirit of Cub Scouting,
that spirit of giving goodwill and doing your best.
(Webelos den leader lights the white candle or light.)
This white candle [light] represents the spirit of Scouting.
If you promise to fulfill the Cub Scout Promise and the
Cub Scout motto, Do Your Best, please say, I do.
WEBELOS SCOUTS: I do.
NARRATOR: This yellow candle [light] represents the
Arrow of Light Award.
(Webelos den leader lights the yellow candle or light.)
Remember that the spirit of Cub Scouting and Boy
Scouting are one and the same. The spirit of the entire
Scouting movement is one of service, high ideals, and
fellowship. To each family, I am presenting the Arrow of
Light Award and ask you to give this to your boy. This
award is worn on the Webelos uniform and on the Boy
Scout uniform later. (Present badges to the families.)
Notice that we are leaving unlit the green candle [light]
representing the Boy Scout program. This is to remind
you that there is more adventure ahead as you continue
in Boy Scouts. Good luck to you and your families as you
walk the Scouting trail.
9-1
Lets Have a Celebration! 9-2
Timing Is Everything, 9-2
Who Plans the Ceremony? 9-2
The Cub Scout Cycle, 9-2
Ceremonies
Akela Transition Ceremony for Tiger Cubs, 9-3
Mark of the Tiger, 9-3
Neckerchief Ceremony, 9-3
Bear Trail Adventure, 9-3
Four Winds, 9-4
Colors of the Wind, 9-4
Seven Virtues of Life, 9-4
Cub Scout Trail, 9-5
CHAPTER 9
Transition Ceremonies
9-2
Lets Have a Celebration!
Do you remember what it feels like to move into a
new class in school? There is some fear on one hand
and excitement on the other. When we celebrate the
moment of a boys transition from Tiger Cubs to Wolf
or Webelos Scouts to Boy Scouts, it helps smooth that
adjustment. In fact, why not celebrate each step: Tiger
Cub to Wolf, Wolf to Bear, Bear to Webelos Scout, and
Webelos Scout to Boy Scout. Next to receiving a rank
badge, there is no stronger memory in a boys Scouting
experience than a transition ceremony.
Be careful to make all of your props barrier-free. A
bridge from Cub Scouts to Boy Scouts could prevent
someone who is visually or physically impaired from
participating with the den. Instead of making the boy
feel different, adapt the plan so that all boys have this
experience in the same way. Make freestanding hold-
ers for a rope, suggesting a bridge, instead of raising the
floor. Use your imagination.
Timing Is Everything
When do you transition your Cub Scouts and start their
work on the next rank? The Cub Scout cycle recom-
mends that Tiger Cubs, Wolf Cub Scouts, and Bear Cub
Scouts transition into the next program at the end of the
school year. This gives them the opportunity to work in
their new books during summertime activities.
It is important that Webelos Scouts receive the Arrow of
Light by the end of February and then begin attending
Boy Scout troop meetings in March. They need to have
time to develop friendships and skills before attending
summer camp with their troop. Boy Scouts who attend
summer camp their first year are much more likely to stay
in Scouting than those who miss out on this opportunity.
Who Plans the Ceremony?
The responsibility of planning the transition ceremony
belongs to many people in the pack and should be dis-
cussed at a pack leaders meeting. The key is to involve
as many people as possible, with one person leading the
group. Use your parents, Cubmaster, assistant Cubmasters,
Tiger Cub den leaders, Cub Scout den leaders, Webelos
den leaders, den chiefs, and Scoutmasters. In other words,
involve the people who have played an important part in
providing the Cub Scout program for the boys. When you
schedule these events ahead of time during your annual
pack program planning conference, youll be sure to
make it a memorable and impressive event.
April and May: Selecting the best possible den and pack leaders is critical. Carefully identify and recruit next years
leaders now so that they can help current leaders and transition into their new roles.
Summer activities include a
special effort to involve new
Scouts.
On June 1, all boys
transition and work
on their next book
over the summer.
Fifth-grade Webelos Scouts transition
and join Boy Scout troops in February
so they will be ready to go to summer
camp with Boy Scout troop.
The Cub Scout Cycle
(with February transition of fifth-grade Webelos Scouts)
SUMMER
JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY
Tiger
Cubs
First
grade
12
months
Wolf Cub
Scouts
Second
grade
12
months
Bear Cub
Scouts
Third
grade
12
months
Webelos
Scouts
Fourth
grade
12
months
Webelos
Scouts
Fifth
grade
9
months
9-3
Akela Transition Ceremony for Tiger Cubs
Preparation: Lay a path with tracks of a tiger from
where the Tiger Cub den is seated to the area where the
ceremony will be held.
Materials: Tiger tracks made from black construction
paper, electric campfire, a Tiger Cub emblem, and a
homemade certificate for each boy.
CUBMASTER: Come to the council fire, those of you who
wish to become Wolf Cub Scouts. As I call your name,
come follow the trail of the tiger to our campfire. (Call
the names of Tiger Cubs and their adult partners.) You
have earned the Bobcat badge. For the past year, you have
learned about making your family special, citizenship,
how to keep yourself healthy and safe, communicating,
and outdoor program.
TIGER CUB DEN LEADER: Along this trail, you were
helped and guided by your Tiger Cub adult partner.
CUBMASTER: Now it is time to begin a new trail, a new
path, a new adventure in Cub Scouting. You will be enter-
ing the Wolf Cub Scout den and following the trail to the
Wolf badge. May the Great Spirit always be by your side
as you follow the Cub Scout motto: Do Your Best!
Mark of the Tiger
(Tiger Cub to Wolf Cub Scout)
Materials: Orange or black marker and poster.
NARRATOR: Today, we honor our Tiger Cubs. Will the
following boys and their adult partners please come
forward. (Call the names.) On behalf of our pack, Tiger
Cub Den Leader [Name] would like to recognize your
journey this year.
TIGER CUB DEN LEADER: During the past months,
you and your families have explored new and exciting
things and places. You have taken part in den and pack
meetings, and taken field trips called Go See Its. (Draw
the pad of the tiger paw on the poster.)
You and your partner have searched out new activities
that have shown you how people work and have fun
together. (Draw the first toe.)
You have discovered that by doing things together with
friends and family, you feel a sense of belonging. (Draw
the second toe.)
You have shared with your family, friends, and fellow
Tiger Cubs the things that you have searched out and
discovered, which helped them learn more about you.
(Draw the third toe.)
In Cub Scouting, your family is important, just as it is
throughout your whole Scouting experience. Support
in earning each badge comes from your family as well
as from your den leader. Your family will help you each
step of the way. (Draw the fourth toe.)
On behalf of our pack, I want to congratulate you as
you move to the next step of Scouting! Lets give them a
round of applause and congratulate them!
Neckerchief Ceremony
Materials: Tiger Cub, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, and Boy Scout
neckerchiefs on display; a neckerchief for each boy for
his next rank.
NARRATOR: Today, we have the privilege of watching
our Scouts take a step toward their next station on the
Cub Scouting trail.
Will the Tiger Cubs and their families please come for-
ward. During the past year, you have worked hard. As you
start on the trail of the Wolf, you will wear the yellow
neckerchief, which reminds you of the happiness, good
cheer, and warm sunshine of the Cub Scout Promise.
(Remove the Tiger Cub neckerchiefs and replace with
Wolf Cub Scout neckerchiefs.) Pack [number], I would
like to present to you your new Wolf den.
Will the Wolf Cub Scouts and their families please come
forward. You have worked hard this past year on the
achievements and electives for the Wolf rank. The next
neckerchief you will wear is blue to remind you of the
truth in the Law of the Pack. (Present mementos.)
Pack [number], I would like to present to you your
new Bear den.
Will the Bear Cub Scouts and their families please come
forward. The Webelos program has more challenges
ahead for you. The plaid neckerchief you will wear is
multicolored, combining the blue and gold of the Cub
Scout program with the red and green of the Boy Scout
program. (Present mementos.) Pack [number], I would
like to present to you your new Webelos den.
May you walk the Cub Scouting trail with pride and live
the Cub Scout Promise and Law of the Pack.
Bear Trail Adventure
(Wolf Cub Scout to Bear Cub Scout)
Preparation: Make a bear paw for each boy and write
God, Country, Family, Self on each.
NARRATOR: We have some Cub Scouts who are get-
ting ready to embark on a new adventure! Will the fol-
lowing boys please come forward. (Call the names of
transitioning Wolf Cub Scouts.) You have accepted the
challenges that were sent your way this past year and
mastered them. Are you ready to walk a new trail? (Boys
say yes.)
This trail will have choices for you to make. There are
lots of achievements, and you will be making choices
in four areas: God, country, family, and self. The choices
you make will shape your future trails. If you accept
this new challenge, please make the sound of the bear.
(Boys roar.) Here is a bear paw to remind you of the
challenge ahead. (Present a paw to each boy.)
9-4
Four Winds
(Bear Cub Scout to Webelos Scout)
Materials: Holder with five candles or lights.
NARRATOR: (Have someone dim the lights.) Tonight,
we have some Cub Scouts who are ready to join a
Webelos den. Will the following boys and their families
please come forward. (Call the names.)
(Have the Webelos den leader light the first candle
or light.) The winds can be both our friends and our
enemies. They can bring rain clouds with much needed
moisture or heavy storms that damage our crops. Today,
they are bringing us messages of goodwill. Listen to
what they are saying.
BEAR DEN LEADER: I am the north wind. People say
that I am cold, but I will always bring you the warmest
of winds because you live up to the Law of the Pack.
(Webelos den leader lights the second candle or light.)
I am the south wind. I wish you good Scouting and
carry stories of your Cub Scouting achievements
throughout the land. (Webelos den leader lights the
third candle or light.)
I am the east wind. I spread the story of your Scouting
spirit and tell how you live up to the Cub Scout Promise.
(Webelos den leader lights the fourth candle or light.)
I am the west wind. I guide families to help these Cub
Scouts. They do not walk the trail alone. Each has the
help of his family. (Webelos den leader lights the fifth
candle or light.)
All the winds are wishing you the best of luck on the
Webelos trail toward the Arrow of Light.
NARRATOR: Congratulations! Lets all welcome these
new Webelos Scouts!
Colors of the Wind
(Webelos Scouts to Boy Scouts)
Materials: Holder with four candles or lights (blue, yellow,
white, and red). Webelos den leader lights the candles. Have
a trail ready if you are using one in this ceremony.
NARRATOR: Tonight, we are honoring some Webelos Scouts
who are moving forward along the Scouting trail. Will the
following boys please come forward. (Call the names.)
Today, you are making a giant stepthat from Cub
Scouting to Boy Scouting. As we present to you the
colors of the four winds, remember them, and let them
continue to guide you along the Scouting trail.
(Light the blue candle or light.) Blue stands for the Cub
Scout spirit and the north wind. You are a true blue Cub
Scout and live up to the Law of the Pack.
(Light the yellow candle or light.) Yellow stands for the
south wind that carries the story of your achievements
far and wide. As a Cub Scout you have been eager, fair,
and a credit to your den and pack.
(Light the white candle or light.) White stands for the east
wind and the spirit of Scouting. The east wind carries the
story of your fun and happiness to your Scout troop and
tells others how you live up to the Cub Scout Promise.
(Light the red candle or light.) Red stands for the west
wind and represents the families of these Webelos
Scouts. It tells of the help and guidance that these
Webelos Scouts receive from their families. Continue to
help your boy go and grow as he continues to walk the
Scouting trail in Boy Scouting.
As you cross into Boy Scouting, well give you the Cub
Scout handshake one last time. (The Cubmaster and
Webelos den leader shake hands with the Webelos
Scout. The boy walks to the Scoutmaster, giving him
and the senior patrol leader the Scout handshake.)
Seven Virtues of Life
Materials: Holder with seven candles or lights, troop
neckerchief (if one is going to be presented; if the necker-
chief is not going to be presented, reword the ending of
the ceremony).
NARRATOR: Will the following Webelos Scouts please
come forward. (Call the names.) Today, we are honor-
ing these boys who have brought honor to our pack as
they climbed the Cub Scout trail. They are now ready
to go into Boy Scouting. With the help of their families,
they will soon start walking the Boy Scout trail.
WEBELOS DEN LEADER: The seven candles [lights] before
you represent the rays in the Arrow of Light. As they are
lighted, you will hear how they stand for the seven great
virtues of life. (The narrator lights the candles or lights.)
1. Wisdom doesnt mean that you are smarter than
others. It means that you use what you know to lead
a better life.
2. Courage doesnt mean that you have no fear of danger.
It means that you can face danger despite your fear.
3. Self-control means being able to stop when you have
had enough of something, such as eating, playing, or
even working too much.
4. Justice means being fair with others as you play and
work with them.
5. Faith is belief in God and things you cannot see but
feel are true.
6. Hope means to look forward to good things you
believe will happen and work hard today to make
them happen.
7. Many kinds of love are important: love of family,
fellow humans, God, and our country.
9-5
NARRATOR: If you live by these virtues, you will be a
happier person. Scoutmaster [Name] is here to receive
you into your troop. (Scoutmaster says a few words
of welcome.)
SENIOR PATROL LEADER: As you remove your Cub Scout
neckerchief, remember the things you learned in Cub
Scouting. And as you wear this Boy Scout neckerchief,
remember that it represents the members of our troop
who always try to do their best and be prepared. Welcome
to our troop. (He gives each boy a Scout handshake.)
Cub Scout Trail
Preparation: Any Cub Scout holds a Bobcat badge, a
Tiger Cub holds a Tiger Cub badge, a Wolf Cub Scout
holds a Wolf badge, a Bear Cub Scout holds a Bear badge,
a Webelos Scout holds a Webelos badge, a den chief
holds an Arrow of Light Award, a Scoutmaster or senior
patrol leader holds a Boy Scout badge. Space the badges
apart so that they form a trail. This ceremony can be
done inside or outside (arrange them around the edge
of a clearing).
NARRATOR: Tonight, we are honoring some Webelos
Scouts who are moving forward along the Scouting
trail. Will the following boys please come forward.
(Call the names.)
You are taking a giant stepthat from Cub Scouting to
Boy Scouting. We would like to think back on some of
the steps you have taken along the way.
(Walk with the boys to the Bobcat station.) Remember
when you first joined Cub Scouts? The Cub Scout motto,
Law of the Pack, and the Cub Scout Promise were new
to you then.
(Walk with the boys to the Tiger Cub station.) Your first
year in Cub Scouting, you did lots of activities with your
families. You went on Go See Its, you did family projects,
and you shared new ideas in your den.
(Walk with the boys to the Wolf station.) At this stop,
you worked on achievements that included knowledge
about the flag, fitness, tools, safety, and feats of skill.
(Walk with the boys to the Bear station.) While work-
ing on the Bear badge you completed achievements in
four areas: God, country, family, and self. You were able
to choose which achievements to complete.
(Walk with the boys to the Webelos station.) As
Webelos Scouts, you worked on activity badges. You
learned the different parts of the Webelos uniform, the
Outdoor Code, and furthered your knowledge about
your duty to God. You began to discover the meaning
behind the Scout Oath and Scout Law.
(Walk with the boys to the Arrow of Light station.)
To earn the highest award in Cub Scouting, you com-
mitted yourself to living the Scout Oath and Scout Law.
You learned about the Boy Scout uniform. You may have
gone on a Webelos den overnight campout [or day hike]
and visited a Boy Scout troop meeting [or activity].
(Walk with boys to the Boy Scout station.) And now you
have reached the beginning of a new trail. I would like to
introduce your new Scoutmaster and senior patrol leader.
(The Scoutmaster and senior patrol leader take a few
moments to welcome the new Boy Scouts.)
10-1
Are There Other Times for Recognition? 10-2
Webelos Activity Badge Presentation, 10-2
Ceremonies
Tiger Cub Immediate Recognition Emblem, 10-2
Gold and Silver Arrow Points, 10-2
Webelos Activity Badge With Colors or Cap, 10-2
Webelos Activity Badge With Samples, 10-3
Academics and Sports Awards, 10-3
Den Service Projects, 10-3
World Conservation Award, 10-3
National Den Award, 10-3
Service Stars (Tenure Award), 10-3
Twelve Months of Scouting
(National Summertime Pack Award), 10-4
Centennial Quality Unit Award, 10-4
Pack Charter Presentation, 10-4
Silver or Gold Pack Anniversary Ceremony
at the Blue and Gold Banquet, 10-5
The All-Purpose, All-Occasion Ceremony Creator, 10-5
CHAPTER 10
Other Opportunities
for Ceremonies
Other Opportunities for Ceremonies
10-2
Are There Other Times
for Recognition?
Definitely! More ideas follow on the next few pages.
Tiger Cubs earn Tiger Track beads by completing
electives.
Cub Scouts earn Gold and Silver Arrow Points by
completing electives.
Webelos Scouts have the opportunity to earn 20
activity badges.
The Cub Scout Academics and Sports program has
many areas where boys and their adult partners can
be recognized for their efforts and talents.
The Fun for the Family Award recognizes families
with a certificate, patches, and pins for working on
this program together.
The pack can recognize its own efforts in presenting
a quality program during the past year.
Your ceremonies will focus on everyones accomplish-
ments and will build den and pack spirit. Use your imag-
ination to develop and adapt ceremonies for your boys.
Webelos Activity Badge
Presentation
Webelos Scouts will earn a variety of activity badges
during their time in a Webelos den: Aquanaut, Artist,
Athlete, Citizen, Communicator, Craftsman, Engineer,
Family Member, Fitness, Forester, Geologist, Handyman,
Naturalist, Outdoorsman, Readyman, Scholar, Scientist,
Showman, Sportsman, and Traveler.
The Webelos den program will be focusing on one of
these areas each month, so it may happen that you will
have several boys who have earned the same activity
badge. If the Webelos den has worked with an activity
badge counselor, involve this person in the presentation
of the badges. That counselor will have a working knowl-
edge of what was involved in earning the awards and will
be able to help develop a more meaningful ceremony.
Tiger Cub Immediate Recognition Emblem
Preparation: Learn the man overboard knot in
Achievement 22 of the Bear Handbook.
Materials: Rope and Tiger Cub Immediate Recognition
Emblem for each boy
CUBMASTER: Throughout Scouting, there is a strong
emphasis on strengthening family relationships. This is
particularly true in Tiger Cubs. We take a first-grade boy
full of enthusiasm and curiosity. (Hold up a rope and
make the first loop for the man overboard knot.) And
add an adult partner (make the second loop) to make
our first Tiger team. We add other teams (make more
loops) to make a Tiger Cub den. Then we take our Tiger
Cub program by the tail and thread our teams together
securely. (Thread the tail of the rope through all the
loops.) And if we have done our best and provided a
program to spark the spirit of Scouting, then well find
we have a string of strong families. (Pull the rope to
form the knots.)
TIGER CUB DEN LEADER: Cubmaster, these Tiger Cubs
are beginning their first year in Scouting and have
learned the Cub Scout Promise, the Cub Scout sign, and
the Cub Scout salute. (Call the boys and their adult
partners forward. Lead all in reciting the Cub Scout
Promise.) Because you have learned these things, you
may wear the Tiger Cub Immediate Recognition Emblem
on your right shirt pocket. (Present the emblems.)
CUBMASTER: Congratulations on completing this first
step of the Scouting trail. As you do activities with your
den and family, you will receive special orange, black,
and white activity beads to attach to your new emblem.
As you complete elective activities, you will receive
yellow Tiger Track beads. May the fun you have in Tiger
Cubs bring your family closer together as you live the
Cub Scout motto.
Gold and Silver Arrow Points
Materials: An arrow
NARRATOR: Today, we honor some Cub Scouts who
have gone the extra mile and have earned Gold and
Silver Arrow Points. Will these boys and their families
please come forward. (Call the names.)
(Hold the arrow in the air.) Have you ever shot an
arrow? What do you think makes the arrow fly straight?
(Point out the straight shaft and the feathers.) What
helps it enter its target? (Tell them: A good aim and a
sharp point.)
The arrow must be straight and true with feathers for
guidance and stability, and it also must be fast and sharp.
To be a good Cub Scout, you too must remain straight
and true and receive guidance and stability from Akela.
Congratulations on reaching your target and earning
these Arrow Points. (Present awards.)
Webelos Activity Badge With Colors or Cap
Preparation: Create a generic prop that is a large
Webelos colors or Webelos cap. It can be made of fab-
ric or a sheet of poster board that has been colored to
match. Enlarge a line drawing of each activity badge
and copy the requirements for that badge on the back.
Throughout the year, use them as you present badges.
Involve the Webelos den leader or activity badge coun-
selor in the presentations.
NARRATOR: Today, we have the honor of recognizing
Webelos Scouts who have earned Webelos activity badg-
es since our last pack meeting. Will the following boys
please come forward.
10-3
[Names] have earned the [name of an activity] badge.
Requirements for this badge include [list some require-
ments]. What was most memorable about earning this
badge? (The boys respond.)
(Continue if more than one activity badge was earned.)
Congratulations on completing this step along your
Scouting trail toward the Arrow of Light Award.
Webelos Activity Badge With Samples
Preparation: Webelos Scouts bring samples of their
projects for the activity badge.
WEBELOS DEN LEADER: Our den has been working at
home and in our den meetings on the [name] activity
badge. Several of the Webelos Scouts have completed
the requirements and have earned this badge. Will the
following Webelos Scouts please come forward. (Call
the names.) With us tonight is [Name of person], the
activity badge counselor, who will present the badges.
ACTIVITY BADGE COUNSELOR: It has been my pleasure
to work with these Scouts on this activity badge. They
have brought some samples of their work to show you.
(Boys show what they have been working on.) I take
great pleasure in presenting these (name of badge)
activity badges. Congratulations!
Academics and Sports Awards
Preparation: Insert the awards in an old newspaper.
NARRATOR: (reading newspaper) Help wanted. Boy
who likes challenges, enjoys life, has fun, loves adventure,
can follow rules, and is a good sport.
Will the following boys please come forward. (Call the
names.) It sounds like you qualify for this position!
You have earned your Cub Scout Sports award for
[list requirements]. (Present the Sports awards.)
(Narrator continues reading the newspaper.) Help
wanted. Young man who has a good imagination, is
skilled in [list academic talents], and practices his
talents. Will the following boys please come forward.
(Call the names.)
You sound just like the people we need. You have
completed all the requirements for an Academics award.
(Present the Academics awards.)
Lets congratulate our Scouts who jumped right up and
really answered these want ads!
Den Service Projects
Preparation: Create a fun award for the den doodle
(See examples in Chapter 3.)
NARRATOR: Service to others has been a part of the
Scouting program since it first started. Will the Cub Scouts
and leaders of Den [number] please come forward. Please
share with us how your den helped other people. (Allow
the boys some time to share what they did.)
Wed like to present you with a den award for your den
doodle. This is a [name the award] for [say why the den
is receiving it]. (Examples: Flashlight on a string for light-
ing the way, compass on a string for leading the way, tent
stake on a string for your stake in the future.) Lets show
them our appreciation. (Lead an appropriate applause.)
World Conservation Award
Materials: World Conservation Award for each boy
NARRATOR: In his last letter to Scouts around the world,
Lord Baden-Powell, the founder of Scouting, wrote, Try
to leave the world better than you found it.
DEN LEADER: Today, we are honoring some Scouts who
have worked hard to fulfill the requirements of the World
Conservation Award. Will the following boys please come
forward. (Call the names.) These boys have completed
achievements and electives related to the outdoors in
addition to completing a den conservation project. Would
you like to explain your project to our pack? (Let the
boys share the explanation of their project.)
NARRATOR: Thank you for helping make our world a
better place for all of us. (Present the awards.)
National Den Award
Materials: National Den Award ribbon for the den
NARRATOR: Cub Scouting happens in the den. We have a
den that has been on the ball with a year-round fun and
quality program. Will the Cub Scouts and leaders of Den
[number] please come forward. (Pause.) The boys in this
den have attended den meetings and pack meetings or
pack activities each month of the year. They have also had
a denner, gone on field trips, attended camp, experienced
Character Connection activities, participated in Cub
Scout Academics and Sports, and had fun in a den
conservation or service project.
On behalf of the pack committee for Pack [number],
I am pleased to present them with this National Den
Award ribbon for their den flag. Lets congratulate them
with an applause. (Lead an appropriate applause.)
Service Stars
(Tenure Awards)
Preparation: Cut out a star for each person receiving
a tenure award and write his/her name on it. Insert
the service star showing the correct number of years
of service.
NARRATOR: Have you ever watched shooting stars
in the sky? You usually dont see just one. When the
conditions are favorable, you usually see a bunch of
them falling one at a time. We have some stars of our
own tonight. The conditions have been favorable for
each of these Scouts and leaders to complete a year of
Scouting in our pack. Will the following people please
come forward. (Call the names.)
10-4
Tiger Cub, Cub Scout, and Webelos Scout time is marked
with a yellow backing behind the pin showing the number
of years. Adult leaders can wear separate pins for their time
in Scouting as a youth, or combine their time with that of
their adult leader service in front of a light blue backing.
These pins are worn three-eighths of an inch above
the left shirt pocket on the uniform. Congratulations!
(Present the awards.)
Twelve Months of Scouting
(National Summertime Pack Award)
Materials: Holder with one candle or light, 12 boys
holding flashlights standing behind the narrator, a
copy of the Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide and
Webelos Leader Guide, National Summertime Pack
Award ribbon for each den that has qualified, a pin for
each boy who qualifies (Note: This award is for boys
only, not adults.)
NARRATOR: (Light the single candle or light and have
someone dim the lights.) This light represents the spirit
of Scouting. These 12 boys represent the 12 months of a
year in the life of an active boy.
This year our pack has used the Core Values: (Hold up
the Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide and Webelos
Leader Guide and read the Core Values your pack has
used for the past year. As you read each month, have a
boy turn on his flashlight and shine it on the floor in
front of him.)
This is what happens when pack leaders plan a full
12-month program of activities. If we were to take the
summer off from Scouting (have three boys turn off
their flashlights), we would have lost one-quarter of our
lightand one-quarter of our boys Cub Scout program.
But, by sticking to our plan (the three boys turn on
their flashlights again), our Cub Scouts had a full year
of fun and adventure.
Our pack planned and conducted three pack activities
that occurred in June, July, and August. Im pleased to
present this streamer we have received for our pack
flag. (Present the streamer to the Cubmaster.)
Will the following den leaders please come forward.
(Call the names.) Your dens had an average attendance
of at least half of your members at the three summer
pack events. I would like to present you with a den
participation ribbon for your den doodle. (Present the
ribbons to the leaders.)
Will the following Scouts please come forward. (Call the
names.) Each of you participated in all three of the pack
summertime events and has earned this pin that you can
wear on the right pocket flap of your uniform. (Present
the pins.) Lets give our pack a special applause!
Centennial Quality Unit Award
Materials: Centennial Quality Unit streamer for the
pack flag, Centennial Quality Unit Award for adults
and boys
UNIT COMMISSIONER: Im here today to recognize
Pack [number] as one of the best packs in our district, in
our council, in our region, and in our nation. Your pack
has earned the distinction of being a Centennial Quality
Unit. Will Cubmaster [Name] please come forward.
Your pack leaders have completed training and
have planned activities that meet the test of being a
Centennial Quality Unit. On behalf of the [local council
name], I am pleased to present you with this streamer
for your pack flag. Congratulations!
CUBMASTER: Each leader and Scout in our pack shares
the honor of this distinction because together they
have done their best. I would like to present each one
of them with the Centennial Quality Unit Award, which
they can wear for the following year on their right
sleeve, 4 inches below the shoulder seam. (The boys
and leaders come forward.) Lets give our pack a
special applause!
Pack Charter Presentation
Preparation: The unit commissioner conducts the pre-
sentation of the pack charter to a representative of the
chartered organization at one of its meetings. Four boys
carry lights that can be turned on.
CUB SCOUT 1: This light represents the spirit of
Scouting. (He turns on his light.)
CUB SCOUT 2: I promise to do my best to do my duty to
God and my country. (He turns on his light.)
CUB SCOUT 3: I promise to do my best to help other
people. (He turns on his light.)
CUB SCOUT 4: I promise to do my best to obey the Law
of the Pack. (He turns on his light.)
UNIT COMMISSIONER: In presenting this unit charter
to [name of organization], I would like to congratulate
you on the way you have assumed and carried out your
responsibilities as the chartered organization for Pack
[number]. I want to express the appreciation of the
[BSA Councils name] for the cooperation that you have
given in extending this program to youth.
Congress has chartered the Boy Scouts of America since
1916. The Boy Scouts of America, in turn, charters your
organization to carry out the full Scouting program. It is
with a great deal of pleasure that I now present you the
charter for Cub Scout Pack [number] for [year]. (Present
the charter.) I wish your pack a successful Scouting
program in the coming year.
10-5
CUB SCOUT 1: The Cub Scout follows Akela.
CUB SCOUT 2: The Cub Scout helps the pack go.
CUB SCOUT 3: The pack helps the Cub Scout grow.
CUB SCOUT 4: The Cub Scout gives goodwill.
(Extinguish lights.)
Silver or Gold Pack Anniversary
Ceremony at the Blue and Gold Banquet
Materials: Holder with four candles or lightswhite,
blue, yellow, and silver or gold. Your pack charter will
tell how many months your unit has been continuously
chartered.
CUBMASTER: Welcome to the Pack [number] Blue and
Gold Banquet.
CUB SCOUT: I am lighting this white candle, (lights it)
which represents the spirit of Scouting.
ASSISTANT CUBMASTER 1: I am lighting this blue can-
dle, (lights it) which represents truth, loyalty, and the
sky above.
ASSISTANT CUBMASTER 2: I am lighting this yellow
candle (lights it) representing good cheer, happiness,
and warm sunlight.
COMMITTEE CHAIR: I am lighting this silver (or gold)
candle (lights it) representing the 25 [or 50] years that
our pack has served our youth.
CUBMASTER: These four candles symbolize our tradi-
tions and dedication to the Cub Scout program. If we
went back and counted each boy and adult who has
been registered with our pack, we would have an
impressive number to give you. But think even beyond
that. We could never count the effect that these people
have had on their communities and on future genera-
tions. Lets all stand, give the Cub Scout sign and say the
Cub Scout Promise together.
The All-Purpose, All-Occasion
Ceremony Creator
Choose one or more phrases from each area. Add your
own personal words for each occasion.
1. Will the following __________________ please come
forward. (Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, Webelos Scouts,
special guests, leaders, families, dens, other:________
________________)
2. Before you stands _________________. (A candle,
a light, a Cub Scout handbook, Akela, a ladder, a
neckerchief, a trail, your leader, a bucket, a tripod,
a religious symbol, a bridge, a box, the pack, a branch,
a picture, your parents, other: _____________)
3. This represents ___________________. (The spirit of
Scouting, the pack, your future, our dedication, char-
acter, fun and adventure, our religious organization,
your den, your advancement, fitness, the family, good
deeds, your accomplishments, the world, our com-
munity, other: _____________)
4. You have earned this award by _________________.
(Helping others, joining the pack, being the best
___________, doing your best, completing achieve-
ments, collecting ______________, helping boys
grow, helping with _____________, serving as
_______________, being a denner, selling the most
_______________, serving for _______ years, other:
___________________)
5. Please accept this award and continue to
_____________________. (Do your best, give good-
will, help the pack go, come to meetings, follow
Akela, help your boy, work hard, grow strong, follow
the trail, other: _________________)
6. Will the pack please join me in congratulations for
this award. (Lead an appropriate applause.)
11-1
Scouting Goes Outdoors, 11-2
Things to Remember, 11-2
Ceremonies
Campfire Lighting, 11-2
Campfire and Candles, 11-2
Invocation of the Fire, 11-2
Outdoor Code, 11-2
Campfire Advancement, 11-3
Circle of Light, 11-3
Benediction, 11-3
Irish Blessing, 11-3
Light of Day Has Left Us, 11-3
CHAPTER 11
Outdoor and
Campfire Ceremonies
Outdoor and Campfire Ceremonies
11-2
Scouting Goes Outdoors
Remember that the outdoor program runs like a thread
through the Scouting program. When dens and packs are
outdoors, ceremonies are appropriateand important!
Outdoor pack activities can start with an opening cere-
mony and end with a closing ceremony or closing camp-
fire. If an outdoor pack activity is replacing the monthly
pack meeting, there should also be an advancement cer-
emony so that awards can be presented promptly.
Things to Remember
When planning an outdoor ceremony, consider these
details ahead of time:
Weather can make it difficult to keep candles lit. Have
a backup plan and always remember fire safety rules.
Outside noises from wind and water can make it dif-
ficult to hear voices. Keep the group close together
and have the speaker face the crowd.
Plan your flag ceremony carefully. If you do not have
a secure flag holder, have the boys present the flag
and continue to hold it during your flag ceremony.
Then have them retreat with the flag. Whether we
are inside or outside, we give the U.S. flag the same
respect and handle it properly.
Use nature as a backdrop. Look around and chose a
location that showcases your event.
Sweep the area and walkways, looking for loose rocks
and tree roots that might trip a boy or adult.
If you are using a campfire, learn and follow the rules
for fire safety.
Flashlights or glow sticks work well as alternatives
to candles in outdoor ceremonies.
Keep ceremonies short!
Campfire Lighting
Preparation: Narrator enters carrying a lighted candle
to light the fire.
NARRATOR: This light is the symbol of a Cub Scouts
promise to do his best to do his duty to God and his
country, to help other people, and to obey the Law of
the Pack. We light our fire tonight with the spirit of
Scouting. (Lights the fire with the candle.)
Campfire and Candles
Materials: Leader and seven boys holding candles
LEADER: (Lights candle from campfire.) Welcome
to our campfire. Let us draw from it the warmth of
Scouting and the spirit of brotherhood. (Lights candle of
Cub Scout 1.)
CUB SCOUT 1: In its light, we see new chances to be help-
ful and to do our best. (Lights candle of Cub Scout 2.)
CUB SCOUT 2: In its warmth, we think about friends
and learning how to get along with others. (Lights can-
dle of Cub Scout 3.)
CUB SCOUT 3: In the rocks around the fire that contain
the fire, we learn to control our tempers and become
good citizens. (Lights candle of Cub Scout 4.)
CUB SCOUT 4: From the smoke that rises, we learn to
do our duty to God. (Lights candle of Cub Scout 5.)
CUB SCOUT 5: The spark that lit this fire reminds us
that small things can lead to greater good deeds. (Lights
candle of Cub Scout 6.)
CUB SCOUT 6: Fire needs to have wood to burn brightly,
and we need the care and love of our families as we
grow. (Lights candle of Cub Scout 7.)
CUB SCOUT 7: In the flames of this campfire, we see
the fun of Cub Scouting! (All Cub Scouts blow out
their candles.)
Invocation of the Fire
CUB SCOUT 1: May this be a fire of peace and goodwill
where we may gather and share our thoughts.
CUB SCOUT 2: As this fire keeps us warm, may it also
warm our spirits.
CUB SCOUT 3: In the beauty of the flames, may we see
the ever-changing beauty of the world.
CUB SCOUT 4: May this fire be a place where fellow-
ship, adventure, and fun sit side-by-side.
CUB SCOUT 5: May this fire, this night, remain forever in
our hearts as the first fire kindled by humans has stayed
a part of us through the ages.
Outdoor Code
Preparation: Five boys walk in with the U.S. flag.
CUB SCOUT 1: As an American, I will do my best to be
clean in my outdoor manners.
NARRATOR: I will treat the outdoors as a heritage. I will
take care of it for myself and others. I will keep my trash
and garbage out of lakes, streams, fields, woods, and
roadways.
CUB SCOUT 2: As an American, I will be careful with fire.
NARRATOR: I will prevent wildfire. I will build my fires
only where they are appropriate. When I have finished
using fire, I will make sure it is cold-out. I will leave a
clean fire ring or remove all evidence of my fire.
CUB SCOUT 3: As an American, I will be considerate in
the outdoors.
11-3
NARRATOR: I will treat public and private property
with respect. I will use low-impact methods of hiking
and camping.
CUB SCOUT 4: As an American, I will be conservation-
minded.
NARRATOR: I will learn how to practice good conserva-
tion of soil, waters, forests, minerals, grasslands, wildlife,
and energy. I will urge others to do the same.
CUB SCOUT 5: Let us think about these responsibilities
as we stand and sing America the Beautiful.
Campfire Advancement
Preparation: Start with a very small campfire and have
small pieces of tinder attached to each award. Each boy
adds his piece of wood to the fire after receiving his
award.
NARRATOR: Our Cub Scouts have worked hard this
month on achievements, electives, and activity badges.
As they learn and grow, they are adding fuel to the fire
that makes our pack go. As each of you receives your
award tonight, you will add a piece of tinder to help
our campfire grow also. (Call the boys and parents for-
ward to receive Tiger Track beads; Bobcat, Tiger Cub,
Wolf, and Bear badges; Arrow Points; Webelos activity
badges; Webelos badges, and Arrow of Light Awards.)
You can see what a difference this tinder has made to
the fire of Scouting in our pack!
Circle of Light
CUB SCOUT 1: As darkness creeps into our circle of
light,
CUB SCOUT 2: Embers that glow and sigh,
CUB SCOUT 3: Draw our friendship circle closer,
CUB SCOUT 4: Whisper memories that will not die.
CUB SCOUT 5: Gods magic dances in our fires flames,
CUB SCOUT 6: And fills the gathering night
CUB SCOUT 7: With mystery and a wondrous peace
CUB SCOUT 8: That brings safe sleep til mornings light.
Benediction
CUB SCOUT 1: May the silence of the hills,
CUB SCOUT 2: The joy of the wind,
CUB SCOUT 3: The music of the birds,
CUB SCOUT 4: The fire of the sun,
CUB SCOUT 5: The strength of the trees,
CUB SCOUT 6: And the faith of youth,
CUB SCOUT 7: In all of which is God,
CUB SCOUT 8: Be in our hearts now and evermore.
Irish Blessing
NARRATOR: May the blessed sunlight shine upon you
and warm your heart until it glows like a great fire, so
that a stranger may come and warm himself at it, and
also be a friend.
Light of Day Has Left Us
CUB SCOUT 1: The light of day has left us.
CUB SCOUT 2: Our campfire burns low.
CUB SCOUT 3: A good day of Scouting done, we can sit
back and consider our rewards.
CUB SCOUT 4: The whole of nature surrounds us: tow-
ering trees, running water, green grass, hills and valleys,
animals, stars, and especially good friends.
CUB SCOUT 5: Our fire still warms us against the chill
night air.
CUB SCOUT 6: The fire focuses our attention, embers
glowing, giving a soft light to silhouettes.
CUB SCOUT 7: We remember our hours of teamwork, as
we became a Scouting family.
CUB SCOUT 8: While the fire becomes ashes and only a
memory, our friendship and our Scouting traditions go
on forever.
12-1
Why Do We Recognize Den Chiefs and Adults?, 12-2
Ceremonies
Den Chief Induction No. 1Twisted Cord, 12-2
Den Chief Induction No. 2, 12-2
Den Chief Induction No. 3, 12-2
Den Chief Service Award, 12-3
Den Leader Induction, 12-3
Cubmaster Induction, 12-3
Pack Leaders and Pack Committee Induction, 12-4
Den Leader Recognition, 12-4
Cubmaster Recognition, 12-4
Appreciation for Service, 12-4
Leader TrainingThe Pack Helps the
Cub Scout Grow, 12-4
Leader Training Awards, 12-5
CHAPTER 12
Den Chief and
Adult Ceremonies
Den Chief and Adult Ceremonies
12-2
Why Do We Recognize Den
Chiefs and Adults?
Cub Scout packs would not be in operation if we didnt
have adults and den chiefs involved in the program.
When we have induction ceremonies, we are outlining
the responsibilities of their positions and are letting
them know that we appreciate their services. Often,
these people will go beyond the regular service asked
for and earn awards for their position. Lets not keep it a
secret. Share the good news with the entire pack.
Also, saying thank you is something we learn. When adults
plan ceremonies to recognize other adults and den chiefs,
we are really teaching boys how to do this, too. Youll find
fun ideas to use for den chief and adult appreciation in
Chapter 3. Look for opportunities to let your volunteers
know how much you appreciate their service.
Den Chief Induction No. 1Twisted Cord
(For den chiefs who are members
of a Boy Scout troop)
Materials: Two 4-foot lengths of rope made from yarn
(one blue and one yellow), Den Chief Handbook, den
chief shoulder cord
NARRATOR: Will Den [number or name], Den Chief
[Name], and Den Leader [Name] please come forward.
(Pause.)
Cub Scouts and friends of Pack [number], we wish to
recognize a new leader who will serve as den chief of
Den [number or name]. This blue rope (hold up blue
rope) represents the Cub Scout pack with all its Scouts,
leaders, and parents. It also represents the Cub Scout
Promise and Law of the Pack. (Hand the blue rope to a
Cub Scout.) This gold rope (hold up gold rope) repre-
sents the Scout troop and its leaders, the Scout Oath, and
the Scout Law. (Hand the gold rope to the den chief.)
You will notice that each of these ropes is made from
many strands, representing all the boys in the Cub Scout
pack and Boy Scout troop. Let us bind together these
two ropes into a bond of friendship. (The Cub Scout
and the den chief each grasp the end of the others
rope and twist in opposite directions.)
You will now see that these ropes have become the sym-
bol of the den chiefs officethe den chief cord. (The
narrator takes the rope in his hands and holds it up.)
Den Leader [Name] will now present his symbol of office.
DEN LEADER: (Places the cord on the den chiefs left
shoulder.) We want to recognize the importance of the
service you are giving by presenting you with this Den
Chief Handbook. (Presents the book and gives the den
chief the Cub Scout handshake.)
NARRATOR: Welcome to our pack, and thank you! (The
Cubmaster and the Cub Scouts in the den each give
the den chief a Cub Scout handshake.)
Den Chief Induction No. 2
(For den chiefs who have been Cub Scouts)
Materials: Den chief cord
NARRATOR: Cub Scouting is different from Boy
Scouting. Like Boy Scouting, there are games, crafts,
advancements, and service projects. The biggest differ-
ence between the two programs is in the type of activi-
ties that we do. The person who knows these activities
best is one who has been a Cub Scout.
Its the job of den chiefs to help lead den activities that
will help boys achieve the purposes of Cub Scouting.
Den chiefs set a good example by being both good lead-
ers and friends. Not only do den chiefs participate in
troop, patrol, and crew activities, they attend den chief
training and den and pack meetings.
Tonight, we want to recognize those who will serve our
pack as den chiefs. (Call the names.) Will you please
make the Scout sign and repeat the den chief pledge
after me:
I promise to help the Scouts in my den
To the best of my ability;
To encourage, guide, and protect them in
den and pack activities,
And to show them by my example
What a good leader is.
I will strive to be prompt and dependable
And to cooperate with the leaders
In carrying out the Cub Scout program.
Thank you for all you are doing for our pack! (Present
the den chief cord.)
Den Chief Induction No. 3
Materials: Den chief cord
NARRATOR: We have some new leaders here today
whom we want to welcome into our pack. These leaders
will be the activity assistants in the den. They will lead
games, teach songs, help with ceremonies and skits, and
bring special Scouting skills to the den. These new lead-
ers are our den chiefs. (Call the den chiefs forward.)
These Boy Scouts [and/or Varsity Scouts and/or
Venturers] will not only serve as assistants in our dens
and pack, they are also charged with the larger respon-
sibility of serving as models for Cub Scouts. They are
living examples of the Scout Oath and Law. They will be
both teachers and friends to our Cub Scouts.
Den chiefs, please repeat after me:
I, [Name], promise to do my best
To help the Cub Scouts of this pack
To do their best.
Congratulations! We want to present you with your den
chief cord. (Have the den leader hand a cord to each
den chief and give a Cub Scout handshake.)
12-3
Den Chief Service Award
Preparation: Have a Den Chief Service Award cord for
the den chief. Arrange to have the Scoutmaster [or Varsity
Scout Coach or Venturing Advisor] attend the ceremony.
If this award already has been presented at a Boy Scout
troop meeting, the den chief can still be recognized at a
pack meeting.
NARRATOR: Will the following people please come for-
ward. (Call the den chief, Scoutmaster [Varsity Scout
Coach or Venturing Advisor], and den leaders.)
The Den Chief Service Award recognizes den chiefs, who
lead and serve their dens for at least one year. This award
emphasizes their key role within Scouting and compli-
ments them for their important service. It is the den chief
who brings the fun of Boy Scouting [and/or Varsity Scouts
and/or Venturing] to Cub Scouts and who helps brings
eager Webelos Scouts into the Boy Scout troop.
Den Chief [Name], have you helped the Cub Scouts in your
den to the best of your ability? (Den chief responds yes.)
Have you encouraged, guided, and protected them in den
and pack activities? (Den chief responds yes.) Have you
shown them by example what a Boy Scout [Varsity Scout
or Venturer] can be? (Den chief responds yes.)
Pack [number] thanks and congratulates you for your
part in the success of our pack. (At this point, allow the
Scoutmaster [Varsity Scout Coach or Venturing Advisor] to
make any comments.)
Den leaders, do you have anything you would like to
say? (Allow them a minute to respond.) At this time,
we would like your den leader to place on your left
shoulder your new service award cord. (The den leader
places the cord on the den chiefs left shoulder.)
Lets all show our appreciation for our den chief. (Lead
an appropriate applause.)
Den Leader Induction
Materials: Holder with six candles or lights
NARRATOR: Will the following people please come
forward. (Call the names of the new den leaders and
Webelos den leaders.) Tonight, we have the honor of
inducting our new den leaders.
(Light the first candle or light.) This light is the light of
Scouting. Will one of you please light a second candle?
(Candle is lit.) This light represents the first step in a
boys Cub Scout life, the Bobcat badge. For you, its a
symbol of your acceptance of your position and your
promise to do your best to help these boys learn and
grow in both mind and body. If you accept this respon-
sibility, please give the Cub Scout sign and say, I do.
(Pause for the leaders to respond.)
Please light the third candle. (Candle is lit.) This is the
symbol of the Tiger Cub, the second step in a boys prog-
ress. For you, its the symbol of your promise to do your
best for the Cub Scouts in your den and pack. If you
will always try to do your very best, please give the Cub
Scout sign and say, I do.
Please light the fourth candle. (Candle is lit.) This is the
symbol of the Wolf rank, the third step in a boys prog-
ress. For you, its the symbol of your promise to attend
monthly Cub Scout leader roundtable meetings, where
you will find help for projects and fun and games for
your den. If you now pledge to attend roundtable each
month, please give the Cub Scout sign and say, I do.
(Pause for the leaders to respond.)
Please light the next candle. (The candle is lit.) This is
a symbol of the Bear badge and your promise to seek
knowledge for your position at Cub Scout leader training.
If you now promise to seek training, give the Cub Scout
sign and say, I do. (Pause for the leaders to respond.)
Please light the final candle. (The candle is lit.) This is
the symbol of the Webelos Scout and your symbol for
enthusiasm. Do you now promise to share your enthusi-
asm for Scouting with the boys in your den? (Pause for
the leaders to respond.)
Congratulations! May you serve well the Tiger Cubs, Cub
Scouts, and Webelos Scouts in your dens.
Cubmaster Induction
Preparation: Assemble a symbol for each quality listed
below: a telephone, diploma, paper-cup megaphone, and
walking stick. Present each to the Cubmaster during the
ceremony. Each one can be symbolized with a cardstock
cutout. The committee chair is assisted by committee
members, den leaders, and families.
COMMITTEE CHAIR: As you accept the responsibilities
and challenges of the position of Cubmaster, we have
some items that will help you succeed in your efforts.
PERSON 1: I want to present you good communication,
because communication will be at the root of your suc-
cess. (Present the telephone.)
PERSON 2: I want to present you with knowledge,
beginning with your attendance at Cub Scout leader
training. Your understanding of the Cub Scout program
will ensure that we remember the purposes of Cub
Scouting in everything we do. (Present the diploma.)
PERSON 3: I present you with enthusiasm, because this
will motivate you and the adults and boys in our pack.
(Present the paper-cup megaphone.)
PERSON 4: I present you with support, which repre-
sents the assistance you will receive from each family in
our pack. (Present the walking stick.)
COMMITTEE CHAIR: As our pack leader, you are the
guiding hand behind other pack leaders and serve as
program adviser to the pack committee. You are a recruit-
er, a supervisor, a director, a planner, and a motivator of
other leaders. But beyond all this, your most important
task is to make sure that what we are doing is in the best
12-4
interest of the boys in our pack. Thank you for taking on
this rewarding challenge.
Pack Leaders and Pack
Committee Induction
CHARTERED ORGANIZATION REPRESENTATIVE: It
takes many people with lots of different talents working
together to make our pack go. Will the following people
please come forward. (Call the title and names of the
pack committee chair, the pack committee members,
the Cubmaster, the assistant Cubmasters, the den lead-
ers, the assistant den leaders, the pack trainer, the
ScoutParents unit coordinator, and the den chiefs.)
These people have accepted the challenge and responsi-
bility of working with the boys and families in our pack
this year to achieve the aims of Scouting. These aims are
building character, citizenship, and personal fitness in
our boys.
Do you accept the challenges and responsibilities in
assuming your position? (Pause for the response.) Will
you attend Cub Scout Leader Basic Training, pow wow,
and Cub Scout roundtables so that the knowledge you
find there can help make our pack meet the aims and
purposes of Cub Scouting? (Pause for the response.)
Lets all pledge to work with them in achieving this goal.
Please stand, make the Cub Scout sign, and say the Cub
Scout Promise together.
Den Leaders Recognition
Preparation: Make a special award or certificate for
each leader. (See Chapter 3 for ideas.)
NARRATOR: Den leaders are regular people, just like you
and me. They give a special gift to our children: their time.
They attend training, attend Cub Scout leader roundtables,
plan den meetings, meet with other pack leaders, watch
for new ideas, call families, and play with our boys. The
time that they spend helps mold our Cub Scouts into the
type of men we wish them to becomeresponsible
people who are strong in mind and character.
We want the best for our children. Tonight, we wish
to thank those who have given their best. Will the fol-
lowing special people please come forward. (Call the
names of the den leaders and present each one with a
special certificate or award.)
Cubmaster Recognition
Preparation: Make a special award or certificate. (See
Chapter 3 for ideas.)
NARRATOR: Cub Scouts learn that Akela means leader.
They honor Akela by listening to that person and follow-
ing that person. One person who represents Akela to us is
our Cubmaster. We listen to our leaders words and follow
the Cubmasters example of service. Our Cubmaster is
enthusiastic and idealistic and tries to set the example by
living these ideals. The question the Cubmaster uses as a
guideline is, What is best for the boys?
We want to honor Akela tonight and thank our
Cubmaster for guidance and inspiration. (Present a spe-
cial certificate or award.)
Appreciation for Service
Materials: A certificate and a Nice Job pin
NARRATOR: Today, we would like to honor someone in our
pack who has shown unselfish service by (list the unself-
ish service). Will [Name] please come forward. (Pause.)
On behalf of our pack committee and chartered organi-
zation, I would like to present to you this certificate of
appreciation for your service as (list the role this person
assumed). (Present the certificate.) We also want to pres-
ent you with a pin that can be worn only by those who
have served Scouting in an extra special way. We feel you
should have this pin in recognition of your service to our
pack. (Present the pin.)
Please join me in showing an expression of our
appreciation. (Lead an appropriate applause.)
Leader TrainingThe Pack Helps
the Cub Scout Grow
Materials: A yardstick with a drawing of a Cub Scout
mounted on the top and yellow and blue marking pens
NARRATOR: Today, we will be recognizing some of our
leaders for helping our pack grow. Would the following
leaders please come forward? (Call the names.)
The Law of the Pack guides us all. One of the lines
in the Law of the Pack says, The pack helps the Cub
Scout grow. These pack leaders are helping our Cub
Scouts grow by taking extra time to learn about the Cub
Scout program and things we can do in our dens and
pack. (Make comments about the training event that
they have attended, such as Cub Scout Leader Basic
Training, pow wow, den chief training conference, or
Wood Badge.)
Tonight, we are marking this growth with an inch for
each training. (Have leaders mark yardstick with alter-
nating stripes of blue and gold.) Please stand and join
these leaders in saying the Law of the Pack. (All give
Cub Scout sign and say the Law of the Pack together.)
Lets show our appreciation of these leaders. (Lead an
appropriate applause.)
12-5
Leader Training Awards
Materials: A small toy car or drawing of one for each
leader (or present a flower)
COMMITTEE CHAIR OR CUBMASTER: Every month at
our pack meeting, we recognize the Cub Scouts who
receive awards. Today, we would like to recognize a leader
who has received a special award. Will [Name] please
come forward.
To receive this award, a leader must be trained, participate
in special extra training, work as a leader in that position
for a given period of time, and do several other require-
ments. It sounds like a lot of work, and it is, but this leader
has had as much fun earning this recognition as you Cub
Scouts and Webelos Scouts do while earning yours.
[Name] has earned the (read the name of the recogni-
tion award earned). He/she has received a certificate and
a special square knot to wear on the uniform. As Akela, you
have really helped our pack go and our Cub Scouts grow
(add and our district glow, if appropriate).
We would like to present this special symbol of our
thanks. (Present the recognition item from the pack.)
Congratulations, and thank you again for all your
hard work.
A-1
Important Dates in
Cub Scouting History
1910 Boy Scouts of America incorporated on
February 8
1916 BSA chartered by Congress in June
1930 The Cubbing program started
1940 Program themes introduced
1941 Webelos rank created in Cubbing
1943 Blue and gold banquet materials developed
1945 Cubbing changed to the Cub Scout program
1947 Long trousers introduced
1949 Age limits lowered to 8 for Cub Scouting, 11 for
Boy Scouts, and 14 for Explorers
1954 Webelos dens introduced as a bridge to Boy
Scouts
1955 Pinewood derbies introduced
1964 National Summertime Pack Award created
1967 Lion rank discontinued and Webelos program
for 10-year-olds introduced with 15 activity
badges
1968 Cub Scout day camp program approved
1971 Cub Scout Promise changed from be square to
help other people.
1980 New uniforms designed for boys and leaders
1980 50th anniversary of Cub Scouting in the United
States
1982 Tiger Cubs BSA introduced
1986 Cub Scouting program expanded to serve all
elementary school grades
1991 Ethics in Action and BSA Family programs
introduced
Resources
Where do Cub Scout leaders find materials and resources
for ceremonies? Everywhere! Use your imagination, and
you will find and create what you need! (Also, for more
information, refer to the current BSA catalog.)
BSA Printed Reference Materials
Cub Scout Ceremonies for Dens and Packs, No. 33212
Cub Scout Leader Book, No. 33221
Cub Scout Leader How-To Book, No. 33832
Cub Scout Roundtable Guide, No. 34410
Cub Scout Songbook, No. 33222
Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide, No. 34409
Webelos Leader Guide, No. 33853
Your Flag, No. 33188
Stickers/Posters
Cub Scout Stickers, 2
1
2 by 5
1
2 inches (8), No. 34015
Cub Scout Achievement Stickers (set of badges), 2
1
4 by
2
1
4 inches, No.4455D
Cub Scout Extra Large Insignia Stickers (set of badges),
4
1
4 by 4
1
4 inches, No. 34650
Cub Scout Bobcat Stickers, 2
1
2 by 5
1
2 inches (8),
No. 34014
Cub Scout Wolf Stickers, 2
1
2 by 5
1
2 inches (8), No.34010
Cub Scout Bear Stickers, 2
1
2 by 5
1
2 inches (8), No. 34011
Webelos Scout Stickers, 2
1
2 by 5
1
2 inches (8), No. 34012
Important Dates in Cub Scouting History, A-1
Resources, A-1
New Ceremonies Recommendation Form, A-3
Appendix
APPENDIX
for Dens and Packs
A-2
"Fun for the Family" Award
Fun for the Family Book, No. 33012
Fun for the Family Award certificate, No. 33710
Shaping Your Family Identity pin, No. 14354; patch,
No. 18094
Developing Personal Skills pin, No. 14355; patch,
No. 18095
Building a Family Team pin, No. 14356; patch, No. 18096
Connecting With Your Community pin, No. 14353; patch,
No.18097
Facing Family Challenges pin, No. 14352; patch,
No. 18098
Pins/Certificates/Ribbons
Arrow of Light Wall Certificate, No. 34215
Cub Scout Appreciation Certificate, 10-by-8 inch blue
foil, No. 34069
Cub Scout Pack Graduation Wall Certificate, 10-by-8
inches, No. 33751
Den Chief Award Service Certificate, No. 33726
Pack Leader Appreciation Certificate, No. 33755
RibbonsCub Scout Im a Winner, No. 17804
RibbonsI Did My Best, No. 17803
Special Awards
Cub Scout Thank You Paperweight, No. 17696
Marbleized Den Leader Appreciation Plaque, No. 17733
Other Resources
Cub Scout leaders roundtable
Cub Scout leaders pow wow
Council Service Center
Local Scout Shop
www.Scouting.org
www.JoinCubScouting.org
www.scoutstuff.org
Appendix
A-3
New Ceremonies Recommendation Form
Date:
To: Innovation Team (S320)
Boy Scouts of America
1325 West Walnut Hill Lane
P.O. Box 152079
Irving, TX 75015-2079
Our pack has developed a ceremony that we recommend for the next version of
Cub Scout Ceremonies for Dens and Packs.
Categorycircle one:
Den Ceremony Advancement
Pack Opening Ceremony Transition
Induction to Cub Scouting Adult Recognition and Den Chief Ceremony
Pack Closing Ceremony Other type of ceremony: _____________________
Materials needed:
Ceremony description:
Name:__________________________________________________________________
Address:_________________________________________________________________
City:______________________ State:__________________ Zip:___________________
Telephone:________________ Fax:________________ E-mail:_____________________
Council:______________________________________ Pack No:___________________
Appendix
I-1
A
Academics and Sports Awards, 10-3
Achieve opening pack ceremony, 5-6
Activity badge presentation, Webelos, 10-2
Adapting advancement ceremonies, 8-2
Adult ceremonies, listed, 12-1
Adult recognition, Appreciation for Service, 12-4
Advancement
ceremonies, adapting, 8-2
ceremonies encourage advancement, 1-3
ceremonies, listed, 8-12
Cub Scout, goals of, 1-3
props, 8-2
What is?, 1-3
Why advancement ceremonies?, 8-2
Airplane advancement ceremony, 8-3
All-Purpose, All-Occasion Ceremony Creator form, 10-5
AmericaThe Song, opening pack ceremony, 5-2
A-M-E-R-I-C-A opening pack ceremony, 5-2
Americas Answer closing pack ceremony, 6-2
Anniversary Ceremony, Silver or Gold Pack, 10-5
Apple Seeds closing pack ceremony, 6-3
Appreciation
awards, 3-2
ideas, 3-2
for Service, 12-4
Arrow of Light ceremonies
Painted Paws, 8-8
Spirit of Scouting, 8-14
Top of the Mountain, 8-13
Woodworking, 8-13
Yule Log, 8-13
Arrow Points ceremony, Gold and Silver, 10-2
Assistant Denner Installation, 2-4
Award and appreciation ideas, 3-2
Awards
den chief service, 12-3
leader training, 12-5
B
Baden-Powell opening pack ceremony, 5-6
Badges of Cloth opening pack ceremony, 5-6
Balloons, Immediate Recognition in den, 2-4
Baseball advancement ceremony, 8-4
Bear Cub Scout ceremonies
Airplane, 8-3
Baseball, 8-4
Fitness, 8-5
Jungle Book, 8-3
Our Flag, 8-6
Painted Paws, 8-8
Pinewood Derby, 8-6
Swimming, 8-7
Wagon Train, 8-8
Woodworking, 8-13
Yule Log, 8-13
Bear-to-Webelos transition ceremonies
Four Winds, 9-4
Bear Trail Adventure transition ceremony, 9-3
Benediction outdoor ceremony, 11-3
Bird Nest closing pack ceremony, 6-3
Bird Watchers closing pack ceremony, 6-3
Blue and Gold Banquet, Silver or
Gold Pack Anniversary Ceremony at, 10-5
Blue and Gold closing pack ceremony, 6-3
Bobcat ceremonies
Airplane, 8-3
Baseball, 8-4
Cub Scout Shirt Bobcat Recognition in Den, 2-3
Fitness, 8-5
Jungle Book, 8-3
INDEX
for Dens and Packs
Index
I-2
Key to Cub Scouting, 8-2
On the Cub Scout Trail, 7-2
Our Flag, 8-6
Pinewood Derby, 8-6
Swimming, 8-7
Wagon Train, 8-8
Woodworking, 8-13
Yule Log, 8-13
Bobcat Recognition in Den, Cub Scout Shirt, 2-3
Boy Scout Handshake closing den ceremony, 2-4
Boy Scout Motto opening den ceremony, 2-3
Boy Scout Oath
Meaning of, den closing ceremony, 2-5
opening den ceremony, 2-3
Bridge (transition ceremonies)
Brotherhood Circle Closing den ceremony, 2-4
Building a Flag opening pack ceremony, 5-2
C
Campfire Advancement outdoor ceremony, 11-3
Campfire ceremonies, listed, 11-1
Campfire Lighting outdoor ceremony, 11-2
Campfire and Candles outdoor ceremony, 11-2
Centennial Quality Unit Award, 10-4
Ceremony Creator form, All-Purpose, All-Occasion, 10-5
Ceremony equipment, 3-3
Ceremonies
adapting, 1-3
kinds of, 1-2
limitations, 1-3
music in, 3-7
planning your pack, 3-2
tips for effective, 1-2
Why do we use?, 1-2
Charter Presentation, Pack, 10-4
Circle of Light outdoor ceremony, 11-3
Climbing the Ladder advancement ceremony, 8-11
Clip art to use in ceremonies, 3-5
Closing Thoughts, Short pack, closing ceremony, 6-2
Closing ceremonies, den. See also Tiger Cub ceremonies.
A Valuable Opportunity, 6-2
Brotherhood Circle Closing, 2-4
Den Yell Recognition ceremony, 2-5
Flag Folding, 2-5
Friendship Circle, 2-5
Grand Howl, 2-5
Handshake Closing, 2-4
Leaders Minute, 2-5
Living Circle, 2-5
Meaning of the Cub Scout Promise or
Boy Scout Oath, 2-5
Mountain Climbing Closing Thought, 2-5
My Flag, 2-5
Patriotic Song Closing, 2-5
Square Knot, 2-5
We Meet as Cub Scouts/Webelos Scouts, 2-5
Closing ceremonies, pack meeting, listed, 6-12
Closing Thought, Mountain Climbing, 2-5
Colors of the Wind transition ceremony, 9-4
Compass closing pack ceremony, 6-3
Compass Prayer closing pack ceremony, 6-3
Create or Destroy closing pack ceremony, 6-4
Creating your own ceremonies, 10-5
C-U-B-S, Radio Station advancement ceremony, 8-7
Cub Scout
advancement goals, 1-3
/Boy Scout Motto Opening den ceremony, 2-3
Cycle, 9-2
Pocket opening pack ceremony, 5-7
Promise, Meaning of, closing den ceremony, 2-5
Promise/Scout Oath Opening den ceremony, 2-3
Promise in sign language, 5-10
Promise Opening, 2-3
Shirt Bobcat Recognition in Den, 2-4
Spirit opening pack ceremony, 5-7
Trail transition ceremony, 9-5
Vespers closing pack ceremony, 6-4
/Webelos Scout Light den ceremony, 2-3
Cub Scouting
advancement, 1-3
history, important dates in, A-1
Is Many Things opening pack ceremony, 5-7
Cubmaster
induction, 12-3
recognition, 12-4
Cycle, Cub Scout, 9-2
D
Den award and appreciation ideas, 3-2
Den Award, National presentation, 10-3
Den ceremonies. See also closing ceremonies, den;
opening ceremonies, den.
listed, 2-12
Why do we have them?, 2-2
Den chief ceremonies, listed, 12-1
Den Chief Induction
No. 1Twisted Cord, 12-2
No. 2, 12-2
No. 3, 12-2
Den Chief Service Award, 12-3
Den Doodle for Advancement in den, 2-4
Den doodles, 2-6
Den Flag Opening ceremony, 2-3
Den leader
induction, 12-3
recognition, 12-4
Den service projects, 10-3
Index
I-3
Den Yell Recognition ceremony, 2-5
Den Yell Opening ceremony, 2-3
Denner and Assistant Denner Installation, 2-4
Denner and Cub Scout Stamp Installation, 2-4
Diagrams of flag positions, 4-7
Discover America opening pack ceremony, 5-3
Do Your Best closing pack ceremony, 6-4
Dominoes closing pack ceremony, 6-4
Duties as a Citizen opening pack ceremony, 5-3
E
Effective ceremonies, tips for, 1-2
Equipment
music and, 3-7
pack ceremony, 3-3
Explanation of Pledge of Allegiance opening
pack ceremony, 5-3
F
Family Induction Into the Pack, 7-2
Fire, Invocation of, 11-2
Fire Prevention opening pack ceremony, 5-7
Fishing for Advancement ceremony, 8-4
Fishing, Immediate Recognition in den, 2-4
Fitness advancement ceremony, 8-5
Fitness, Shape Up for, opening pack ceremony, 5-9
Flag ceremonies
comments, 4-2
create your own with U.S. flag, 4-2
indoor, using flag stands, 4-3
outdoor, using flagpole, 4-3
planning, 4-2
and Pledge of Allegiance, 4-2
Flag Folding closing den ceremony, 2-5
Flag of America opening pack ceremony, 5-4
Flag positions, diagrams of, 4-7
Flag retiring, 4-5
Flag stands, standard indoor flag ceremony using, 4-3
Flag Story opening pack ceremony, 5-4
Flag, Talking opening pack ceremony, 5-6
Flagpole, standard outdoor flag ceremony using, 4-3
Form, New Ceremonies Recommendation, A-3
Four Winds transition ceremony, 9-4
Friendship Circle closing den ceremony, 2-5
Fun for the Family Award, BSA, 10-2
G
Garden opening pack ceremony, 5-8
Goals, Cub Scout advancement, 1-3
Gold Pack Anniversary Ceremony, 10-5
Gold and Silver Arrow Points ceremony, 10-2
Gold Arrow Points, Meaning of the Blue and Gold, 8-11
Good News closing pack ceremony, 6-4
Grand Howl Recognition den ceremony, 2-5
H
Halloween closing pack ceremony, 6-4
Handshake Closing den ceremony, 2-4
Handshake Opening den ceremony, 2-2
History of Cub Scouting advancement ceremony, 8-9
History, Important Dates in Cub Scouting, A-1
I
I Am an American opening pack ceremony, 5-4
I Am Your Flag closing pack ceremony, 6-4
I Asked Myself a Question opening pack ceremony, 5-4
I Believe opening pack ceremony, 5-4
I Made a Promise closing pack ceremony, 6-4
I Will Use My Senses closing pack ceremony, 6-5
Immediate recognition in den
Balloons, 2-4
Fishing, 2-4
Snowflake, 2-4
Important Dates in Cub Scouting History, A-1
Indoor flag ceremony, using flag stands, 4-3
Induction ceremonies
Cubmaster, 12-3
den chief, 12-2
den leaders, 12-3
listed, 7-1
pack committee, 12-4
pack leaders, 12-4
Webelos den leaders, 12-3
Why do we have?, 7-2
Installation
Assistant Denner, 2-4
Denner, 2-4
Denner and Cub Scout Stamp, 2-4
Inventions and Computers advancement ceremony, 8-10
Invocation of the Fire outdoor ceremony, 11-2
Irish Blessing outdoor ceremony, 11-3
J
Jungle Book advancement ceremony, 8-3
K
Key to Cub Scouting advancement ceremony, 8-2
Knights of the Round Table advancement ceremony, 8-5
Knights opening pack ceremony, 5-8
L
Law of the Pack/Scout Law Opening den ceremony, 2-3
Layout, pack meeting, 3-2
Leader recognition
Cubmaster, 12-4
den leader, 12-4
Leader training
awards, 12-5
The Pack Helps the Cub Scout Grow, 12-4
Leaders Minute den closing, 2-5
Index
I-4
Light of Day Has Left Us outdoor ceremony, 11-3
Light Switch closing pack ceremony, 6-5
Living Circle den closing ceremony, 2-5
M
Magic opening pack ceremony, 5-8
Making a Difference closing pack ceremony, 6-5
Mark of the Tiger transition ceremony, 9-3
Meaning of Blue and Gold advancement ceremony, 8-11
Meaning of Cub Scout Promise or Scout Oath den
closing ceremony, 2-5
Mountain Climbing
advancement ceremony, 8-5
Closing Thought den ceremony, 2-5
Music in ceremonies, 3-7
Musicians, guest, 3-7
My Backyard opening pack ceremony, 5-8
My Flag closing den ceremony, 2-5
N
National Den Award presentation, 10-3
National Summertime Pack Award, Twelve Months of
Scouting, 10-4
Nature Visitors closing pack ceremony, 6-5
Neckerchief Ceremony transition, 9-3
Neighborhood opening pack ceremony, 5-9
New Ceremonies Recommendation form, A-3
O
Old Glory opening pack ceremony, 5-5
On the Cub Scout Trail induction, 7-2
One Candle closing pack ceremony, 6-5
Opening ceremonies, importance of pack, 5-2
Opening ceremonies, den. See also Tiger Cub Ceremonies.
Create your own with the U.S. flag, 4-2
Cub Scout Promise/Scout Oath Opening, 2-3
Cub Scout/Scout Motto Opening, 2-3
Cub Scout/Webelos Scout Light, 2-3
Den Flag Opening, 2-3
Den Yell Opening, 2-3
Handshake Opening, 2-2
Law of the Pack/Scout Law Opening, 2-3
Pledge of Allegiance Opening, 2-3
Roll Call Opening, 2-3
Tiger Cub Opening, 2-2
Tiger Cub Roll Call Opening, 2-2
Opening/Closing Song Ceremony (den), 2-3
Opening pack ceremonies, listed, 5-12
Orange Bead Recognition den ceremony, 2-2
Our American Heritage opening pack ceremony, 5-5
Our Country Is Different opening pack ceremony, 5-5
Our Flag
closing pack ceremony, 6-5
opening pack ceremony, 5-5
Outdoor Benediction, 11-3
Outdoor and campfire ceremonies
listed, 11-1
planning, 11-2
Scouting goes outdoors, 11-2
Outdoor Code outdoor ceremony, 11-2
P
Pack anniversary, gold or silver, 10-5
Pack ceremonies
closing, listed, 6-12
opening, listed, 5-12
planning your, 3-2
Pack ceremony equipment, 3-3
Pack Charter Presentation, 10-4
Pack Leaders and Pack Committee Induction, 12-4
Pack meeting
closing ceremonies, listed, 6-12
layout, 3-2
opening ceremonies, listed, 5-12
Painted Paws advancement ceremony, 8-8
Parents closing pack ceremony, 6-6
Patriotic Song Closing den ceremony, 2-5
Pinewood Derby advancement ceremony, 8-6
Planning
ceremony, 9-2
flag ceremonies, 4-2
outdoor ceremonies, 11-2
your pack ceremonies, 3-2
Pledge of Allegiance
den opening ceremony, 2-3
Explanation of, opening pack ceremony, 5-3
and flag ceremonies, 4-2
introductory statements for, 4-2
When?, 4-2
Pocketknife closing pack ceremony, 6-6
Presentation of colors
flagpole, 4-6
indoors, 4-4
Props, advancement, 8-2
R
Radio Station C-U-B-S advancement ceremony, 8-7
Recipe for Cub Scouting induction, 7-3
Recognition
Cubmaster, 12-4
den leader, 12-4
Index
I-5
for adults, Appreciation for Service, 12-4
in den, Balloons Immediate, 2-4
in Den, Cub Scout Shirt Bobcat, 2-3
in den, Den Doodle, 2-4
in den, Fishing Immediate, 2-4
in den, Snowflake Immediate, 2-4
leader training, 12-5
other times for, 10-2
White Bead Recognition den ceremony, 2-3
Resource list, A-12
Retiring of colors
flagpole, 4-6
indoors, 4-5
Ripple Effect closing pack ceremony, 6-6
Roll Call Opening den ceremony, 2-3
S
Scout Benediction closing pack ceremony, 6-6
Scout Law Opening den ceremony, 2-3
Scouting History closing pack ceremony, 6-6
Service Award, Den Chief, 12-3
Service projects, den, 10-3
Service Stars, tenure awards, 10-3
Seven Seas opening pack ceremony, 5-9
Seven Virtues of Life transition ceremony, 9-4
Shape Up for Fitness opening pack ceremony, 5-9
Ships of Scouting opening pack ceremony, 5-9
Short Closing Thoughts pack closing ceremony, 6-2
Sign language, Cub Scout Promise in, 5-10
Silver or Gold Pack Anniversary Ceremony, 10-5
Silver Arrow Point ceremony, 10-2
Silver Arrow Points, Meaning of the Blue and Gold, 8-11
Six Steps to Boy Scouting advancement ceremony, 8-11
Sky is the Limit closing pack ceremony, 6-6
Smile closing pack ceremony, 6-6
Snowflake Immediate Recognition in den, 2-4
Songs
AmericaThe Song opening pack ceremony, 5-2
appropriate for opening ceremonies
with U.S. flag, 4-2
Opening/Closing Song den ceremony, 2-3
Patriotic Song Ending den ceremony, 2-5
Taps With Cub Scout Promise closing
pack ceremony, 6-7
Taps With Hand Motions closing pack ceremony, 6-7
Tiger Cub Closing Song den ceremony, 2-3
Space opening pack ceremony, 5-9
Spirit of Baden-Powell opening pack ceremony, 5-10
Spirit of Scouting advancement ceremony, 8-13
Sports Awards. See Academics and Sports Awards.
Sportsmanship closing pack ceremony, 6-6
Square Knot closing den ceremony, 2-5
Stars closing pack ceremony, 6-6
Stick to It Stamp closing pack ceremony, 6-7
Sticks closing pack ceremony, 6-7
Story of the Blue and Gold opening pack ceremony, 5-10
Summertime Pack Award, National, 10-4
Swimming advancement ceremony, 8-7
T
Talking Flag opening pack ceremony, 5-6
Taps
With Cub Scout Promise closing pack ceremony, 6-7
With Hand Motions closing pack ceremony, 6-7
Ten Needs of a Boy closing pack ceremony, 6-7
Tenure award. See Service Stars.
Thank You closing pack ceremony, 6-7
This Is Cub Scouting induction, 7-3
Tiger Cub ceremonies
Black Bead Recognition den ceremony, 2-3
Cub Scout Promise, 2-2
Mark of the Tiger transition ceremony, 9-3
Neckerchief Ceremony transition, 9-3
Tiger Cub Closing den ceremony, 2-3
Tiger Cub Closing Song den ceremony, 2-3
Tiger Cub Opening den ceremony, 2-2
Tiger Cub Immediate Recognition Emblem, 10-2
Tiger Cub Roll Call Opening den ceremony, 2-2
Tiger Cubs on the Trail induction ceremony, 7-2
Tiger Tracks advancement ceremony, 8-3
What Is Tiger Cub Fun? opening pack ceremony, 5-6
Tiger Cub
Closing den ceremony, 2-3
Closing Song den ceremony, 2-3
Immediate Recognition Emblem, 10-2
Opening den ceremony, 2-2
Roll Call Opening den ceremony, 2-2
Tiger Cubs on the Trail induction ceremony, 7-2
Timing, Cub Scout Cycle, 9-2
Tips
for effective ceremonies, 1-2
for using this book, 1-3
Tires Can Take It closing pack ceremony, 6-8
Top of the Mountain advancement ceremony, 8-12
Training, recognition for leader, 12-4
let's have a celebration! 9-2
planning, 9-2
timing is everything, 9-2
Trees closing pack ceremony, 6-8
Twelve Months of Scouting (National
Summertime Pack Award), 10-4
Twisted Cord, Den Chief Induction No. 1, 12-2
U
U.S. flag. See flag.
Index
I-6
V
Value
of a Badge advancement ceremony, 8-12
of a Badge closing pack ceremony, 6-8
Voting opening pack ceremony, 5-6
W
Wagon Train advancement ceremony, 8-8
We Meet as Cub Scouts closing den ceremony, 2-5
Webelos activity badge ceremonies
With Colors or Cap, 10-2
With Samples, 10-3
Webelos activity badge presentation, 10-2
Webelos Scouts ceremonies
Airplane, 8-3
Baseball, 8-5
Fitness, 8-5
Our Flag, 8-6
Painted Paws, 8-8
Pinewood Derby, 8-6
Swimming, 8-7
Wagon Train, 8-8
Woodworking, 8-13
Yule Log, 8-13
Webelos Scout Light den opening ceremony, 2-3
Webelos-to-Scout transition
What Is Advancement?, 1-3
What Is Tiger Cub Fun? opening pack ceremony, 5-6
Wolf Cub Scout ceremonies
Airplane, 8-3
Baseball, 8-4
Fitness, 8-5
Jungle Book, 8-3
Our Flag, 8-6
Painted Paws, 8-8
Pinewood Derby, 8-6
Swimming, 8-7
Wagon Train, 8-8
Woodworking, 8-13
Yule Log, 8-13
Wolf-to-Bear transition
Bear Trail Adventure, 9-3
Woodworking
opening pack ceremony, 5-10
World Conservation Award, 10-3
World Globe closing pack ceremony, 6-8
Y
Yardstick closing pack ceremony, 6-8
Yule Log advancement ceremony, 8-13
Index
BOY SCOUTS OF AMERlCA
1325 West Walnut Hill Lane
P.O. Box 152079
lrving, Texas 75015-2079
http://www.scouting.org
CUB SCOUT
Do Your Best: What does it mean for a
L
E
A
D
E
R
?
Need a great idea
for your den or pack that really works?
Want to share a great idea
that worked in your den or pack?
Then, check out CubCast at
www.scouting.org/ScoutCast
CUBCAST
Be Prepared
(with the right leader resources at the right time) Be Trained
Youth
Protection*
Cub Scout
Fast Start*
This Is
Scouting*
Immediately
(before your first
meeting with boys)
As You Advance
(within 23 months)
As Needed
By Den and
Pack Plans
Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide
Leader Book
Webelos Leader Guide
Leader Position-Specific Training
Basic Adult Leader
Outdoor Orientation
Leader How-To Book
Academics and Sports
*Offered through the Online Learning Center at www.scouting.org
SKU 33212
33212 2010 Printing

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