Cub Scout Grade Level Programs
On the advancement trail, a Cub Scout progresses towards a badge of rank based on their grade. They need not have earned the previous rank in order to earn the next. Each of the ranks in Cub Scouting has its own requirements that are age appropriate, so earning a rank below a Cub Scout’s current grade is not necessary. As a Cub Scout advances through the ranks, the requirements get more challenging, to match the new skills and abilities they have learned. To earn a badge of rank, the Cub Scout must complete several activities, called adventures, which are collections of themed, multidisciplinary activities.
During each Scouting year, your child will have the opportunity to complete six required adventures and at least two elective adventures. Required adventures focus on core concepts: character/leadership, outdoors, personal fitness, citizenship, personal safety, and family/reverence. Elective adventures offer fun lessons in subject areas like STEM, conservation, fishing, personal care, teamwork, and shooting sports. A Cub Scout earns a badge of rank for completing the six required and two elective adventures.
Lion and Tiger Cub Scouts will require an adult partner (parent, grandparent, or other guardian) to attend all activities with them. Adult partners are there to support and guide, allowing the new Cub Scout to discover risks and rewards under the security of adult supervision.
Lion Rank - Kindergarten
The Lion Cub Rank is designed with indoor and outdoor activities for kindergarten-age children and their guardians. It serves as the entry point into the world of Cub Scouting. As the kindergarten year comes to an end, the young Lions will embark on the next phase of their Cub Scouting journey. They will transition to Tigers, where they will have the opportunity to continue their engaging exploration of Cub Scouting activities.
Tiger Rank - 1st Grade
The Tiger Rank marks the beginning of a Cub Scout’s exploration of the natural world and community. Tigers, accompanied by adult partners, engage in hands-on activities that promote curiosity, teamwork, and creativity. Tigers and their adult partners embark on shared adventures, emphasizing the role of family in the scouting journey. Scouts engage in nature hikes, learn about different animals and plants, and begin to appreciate the outdoors. They learn about personal hygiene, nutrition, teamwork, and what to do in an emergency.
Wolf Rank - 2nd Grade
The Wolf Rank focuses on building essential life skills and self-reliance. Scouts work on tasks that help them become more self-sufficient and gain a sense of accomplishment. Scouts learn about community, volunteering, and truthfulness. They engage in physical activities and games that promote health and well-being as well as participate in activities that encourage responsibility, communication, and understanding.
Bear Rank - 3rd Grade
As Cub Scouts progress to the Bear Rank, they delve deeper into areas of personal interest and gain a broader perspective on the world around them. This rank encourages creativity and exploration. Scouts take on the challenge of a 1-mile hike and learn to protect the outdoors. They also learn about volunteering and participate in a service project.
Webelos Rank - 4th Grade
The Webelos Rank emphasizes personal responsibility and leadership. Within this rank, Scouts engage in hiking and learn about safety in the outdoors to develop wilderness skills. They gain insight into elections and government. They will also learn about emergency preparedness and safety at home.
Arrow of Light Rank - 5th Grade
The Arrow of Light is the highest rank a Cub Scout can achieve and represents a significant step toward becoming a member of Scouts BSA. This rank prepares Scouts for the transition to a more challenging and independent scouting experience. The Arrow of Light stands as the sole Cub Scout badge permissible to be worn on the Scouts BSA uniform. They will work on advanced outdoor skills such as campsite selection, first aid, and orienteering. Scouts take on active leadership roles and plan their own service project to benefit the community. They'll reflect on their Cub Scouting journey and set personal goals for the future.