The Cub Scouting program has 10 purposes related to the overall
mission of the Boy Scouts of America – to build character, learn
citizenship, and develop personal fitness:
1. Character Development
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6. Respectful Relationships
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2. Spiritual Growth
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7. Personal Achievement
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3. Good Citizenship
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8. Friendly Service
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4. Sportsmanship and Fitness
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9. Fun and Adventure
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5. Family Understanding
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10. Preparation for Boy Scouts
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Every Cub Scouting activity should help fulfill one of these
purposes. When considering a new activity, ask which purpose or purposes
it supports. Not everything in Cub Scouting has to be serious – far
from it! Silly songs, energetic games, and yummy snacks all have their
place in the program.
The Methods of Cub Scouting
To accomplish its purposes and achieve
the overall goals of building character, learning citizenship, and
developing personal fitness, Cub Scouting uses seven methods:
1. Living the Ideals
Cub Scouting’s values are embedded in the Scout Oath, the Scout Law, the Cub Scout motto, and the Cub Scout sign, handshake, and salute. These practices help establish and reinforce the program’s values in boys and the leaders who guide them.
2. Belonging to a Den
The den—a group of six to eight boys who are about the same
age—is the place where Cub Scouting starts. In the den, Cub Scouts
develop new skills and interests, they practice sportsmanship and good
citizenship, and they learn to do their best, not just for themselves
but for the den as well.
3. Using Advancement
Recognition is important to boys. The advancement plan provides
fun for the boys, gives them a sense of personal achievement as they
earn badges, and strengthens family understanding as adult family
members and their den leader work with boys on advancement projects.
4. Involving Family and Home
Whether a Cub Scout lives with two parents or one, a foster
family, or other relatives, his family is an important part of Cub
Scouting. Parents and adult family members provide leadership and
support for Cub Scouting and help ensure that boys have a good
experience in the program.
5. Participating in Activities
Cub Scouts participate in a huge array of activities, including
games, projects, skits, stunts, songs, outdoor activities, trips and
service projects. Besides being fun, these activities offer
opportunities for growth, achievement, and family involvement.
6. Serving Home and Neighborhood
Cub Scouting focuses on the home and neighborhood. It helps
boys strengthen connections to their local communities, which in turn
support the boys’ growth and development.
7. Wearing the Uniform
Cub Scout uniforms serve a dual purpose, demonstrating
membership in the group (everyone is dressed alike) and individual
achievement (boys wear the badges they’ve earned). Wearing the uniform
to meetings and activities also encourages a neat appearance, a sense of
belonging, and good behavior.
(Scouting.org,2015)