Cub Scouts 101

Who may join Cub Scouts?

• From the BSA Parent FAQ: Cub Scouting is for boys in the 1^st through 5^th grades, or 7 to 10 years of age. Boys who are older than 10, or who have completed the fifth grade, can no longer join Cub Scouting, but they may be eligible to join the Boy Scouting or Venturing program.

What are the core values of Cub Scouts?

• From the BSA Character Development page: Citizenship, Compassion, Cooperation, Courage, Faith, Health and Fitness, Honesty, Perseverance, Positive Attitude, Resourcefulness, Respect, Responsibility

What are the benefits of Cub Scouts?

• From the BSA Benefits of Cub Scouting page: As a worldwide brotherhood, Scouting is unique. It is based on the principles of loving and serving God, of human dignity and the rights of individuals, and of recognizing the obligation of members to develop and use their potential. It is a movement dedicated to bringing out the best in people. Cub Scouting doesn't emphasize winning as an end result, but rather the far more demanding task of doing one's best. When Scouting can help nurture courage and kindness and allow boys to play, to laugh, to develop their imaginations, and to express their feelings, then we will have helped them grow. We want boys to become useful and stable individuals who are aware of their own potential. Helping a boy to learn the value of his own worth is the greatest gift we can give him.

What is a council?

• From the US Scouting Service Project: The National [BSA] Council does not attempt to administer directly the more than 150,000 registered Boy Scout units (troops, packs, venturing crews, etc.). To achieve this, each year, the National Council issues a charter to an autonomous organization called a local council...Local councils are usually not-for-profit private corporations registered within the State in which they are headquartered...Local councils are privately funded and are not financially linked to the National Council or local units. Funding comes from donations, corporate sponsors, and special events.
• Pack 412 belongs to the Greater Alabama Council (P.O. Box 43307, Birmingham, AL 35243, Office: 1-888-490-8955, Fax: (205)970-0349)

What is a district?

• From the US Scouting Service Project: A Scouting district is an optional geographical area within the local council, as determined by the council executive board. District leaders mobilize resources to ensure the growth and success of Scouting units within the district's territory.
• Pack 412 belongs to the Talakto District (2211 Drake Avenue, Huntsville, AL 35805, Office: (256)883-7071, Fax: (256)880-1490)

What is a chartering organization?

• From the US Scouting Service Project: [Each pack] is owned and run by a sponsoring group called a chartered organization. The chartered organization receives a national charter yearly to use the Scouting program as a part of its youth work. The local council helps the chartered organization understand the program, however it is the chartered organization's program and is part of the chartered organizations youth work. These groups, which have goals compatible with those of the Boy Scouts of America, include religious, educational, community groups, fraternal, business, labor, and professional associations.
• Pack 412's Chartered Organization is Huntsville Christian Church (171 Indian Creek Road, Huntsville, AL 35806, (256)864-2220)

What is a pack?

• From the BSA "What Is Cub Scouting?" page: Every Cub Scout is a member of a Cub Scout pack. A pack is a large group of boys.
• Our pack is number 412.

What is a den?

• From the BSA "What Is Cub Scouting?" page: The pack is divided into smaller groups called dens. Each den has about six to eight boys. All of the Cub Scouts in a den are about the same age and live in the same neighborhood.
• All dens within Pack 412 meet at the same location at the same time as a convenience to both parents and adult leaders. We meet at Huntsville Christian Church each Tuesday night from 6:30-7:30pm.

What are ranks?

• From the BSA Advancement Trail page: On the advancement trail, a Cub Scout progresses from rank to rank, learning new skills as he goes. Each of the ranks and awards in Cub Scouting has its own requirements. As you advance through the ranks, the requirements get more challenging, to match the new skills and abilities you learn as you get older.
• The Cub Scout ranks are Tiger (1^st grade), Wolf (2^nd grade), Bear (3^rd grade), and Webelos (4^th and 5^th grades).

What does "akela" mean?

• Akela (ah-KAY-la) is the term for any adult that guides the Scout along his trail. At home, this is the parent. At the den meeting, Akela is the Den Leader. While at a pack meeting, Akela is the Cubmaster. At school, Akela is your Scout's teacher.

What is Boys' Life?

• From the BSA Boys' Life page: The mission of Boys' Life magazine is to entertain and educate America's youth and to open their eyes to the joyous world of reading. This is accomplished through a proven mix of news, nature, sports, history, fiction, science, comics, and Scouting. A special edition is published for Cub Scouts, with age- and program-specific content and feature articles.
• At Pack 412, we hope that all boys will want their own subscription to Boys' Life. Scouts can elect to receive this magazine when they register as a new Cub Scout. While this subscription is optional, we strongly encourage it. Of course, if a family has more than one Scout active in the pack, they can always share a single subscription.

What do you do at a pack meeting?

• From the BSA page on Pack Meetings: The monthly pack meeting brings together boys from every den, their leaders, and their families, to participate in a large-scale event that serves as a showcase for everything the boys have learned and done in their individual den meetings.
• At Pack 412, we conduct pack meetings on the last Tuesday of the month while school is in session. A typical pack meeting at Pack 412 consists of skits, songs, and silly stuff. We also use this time to recognize Scouts for their achievements in front of the entire pack.
• Occasionally, we will schedule a Pack Activity, such as our Halloween party or a pack-wide service project, in lieu of a pack meeting.

What do you do at a den meeting?

• From the BSA page on Den Meetings: The range of activities that may fit into a den meeting is as wide as imagination itself. Many suggestions for activities can be found in the Cub Scout program literature, childrens' books and magazines, and many other sources. Any activity you can imagine can be incorporated into a den meeting, so long as it is age-appropriate, safe, and most of all fun. Ideally, the activities included in a den meeting reinforce the values taught by Cub Scouting or match the monthly theme. But sometimes, "just for fun" is all the reason you need.
• At Pack 412, a typical den meeting agenda begins with a gathering activity followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and receiting the Cub Scout Promise or Law of the Pack. The main part of the meeting is an activity, craft, or game that focuses the Scouts on one of the core values, rank requirements, or belt loops. At the end of the hour, reminders and information for up-coming activities are provided.

What are belt loops?

• From the BSA Academics and Sports Program page: Belt loops and pins are a great way to help fulfill the aims of Scouting: build character, develop citizenship, and encourage mental and physical fitness. Through a variety of subjects, you can stretch your mind and abilities by exploring the wonders of science, learning about the world, and expanding skills in new areas.

What is the Cub Scout Promise?

• I, <state your 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.

What is the Law of the Pack?

• The Cub Scout follows Akela, the Cub Scout helps the pack go, the pack helps the Cub Scout grow, the Cub Scout gives goodwill.

What is the Cub Scout Motto?

• Do your best.

Do you have a website?

• We have a website with both public and private content: http://pack412.org.  The private content is open to pack members only.

When do you meet?

• We meet each Tuesday evening, from 6:30-7:30pm, on days when the Madison County schools are in session, at Huntsville Christian Church (171 Indian Creek Road, Huntsville, AL 35806, (256)864-2220).
• Pack meetings are scheduled on the last Tuesday of each month and den meetings meet the other 3 or 4 Tuesdays each month.
• During the summer, our schedule is less structured, but we will meet together for combined pack activities a couple of times each month.

When does the year start and stop?

• Pack 412 is a year-round pack and our calendar year of activities starts with the beginning of Madison County schools.
• Our fiscal year follows the BSA schedule from January to December.

How large is your pack?

• We typically have 50-70 registered scouts and 10-20 registered adult leaders at the beginning of the school year.

My son is involved with sports. Can he also do scouts?

• Absolutely! We understand that boys at this age are just beginning to experience many different activities and organizations and that conflicts in schedules are bound to happen. There are many rank requirements and individual recognitions available to scouts that cover many different sports so his sporting activities will actually be complimentary to his scouting experience.

How do I register my son with your pack?

• Come visit us during our meetings or contact the Cubmaster to fill out a registration form.

Can I visit your pack before registering?

• Yes, by all means. You and your son are always welcome to observe a pack meeting and participate in a den meeting before registering with the pack.

How much does Cub Scouts cost each year?

• Each fiscal year runs from January through December. The yearly cost for participating in Cub Scouts can be broken down into 4 categories: National Registration, Boys' Life subscription, pack fees, and special event/activity costs. Special activities include overnight campouts at BSA facilities, fishing rodeos, and other events where facility or material costs are incurred.
• Pack fees help to pay for awards, badges, and insignia that are presented to the Scout throughout the year. Additionally, for Pack 412, each Scout is given a handbook each year and a pack T-shirt upon joining. Pack fees fluctuate somewhat depending on the amount of funds raised during the popcorn sales.
• For FY 2011, the combined National Registration fees ($15), Boys' Life subscription ($12) and Pack 412 fees ($36) total $63. These fees are prorated depending on the month in which a Scout joins the pack.

What if I can't afford Cub Scouts?

• Whenever there is a financial hardship, we at Pack 412 will always make avenues available for you and your son to participate in Cub Scouts. Please contact the Committee Chair or Cubmaster if you have such difficulties. All financial discussions are kept confidential.

What do the pack fees cover?

• Pack fees help to pay for awards, badges, and insignia that are presented to the Scout throughout the year. Additionally, for Pack 412, each Scout is given a handbook each year and a pack T-shirt upon joining.

Do I have to sell popcorn?

• Yes. Our primary source of operating funds is popcorn sales. These funds offset much of the cost of maintaining the pack, providing the boys with a variety of activities and awards, as well as maintaining Scout camps and other facilities used by all Scouts. The earnest effort of all Scouts is needed for participation in this activity.

Does my son need a uniform?

• Yes. From the BSA page on uniforms: The Boy Scouts of America has always been a uniformed body. Its uniforms help to create a sense of belonging. They symbolize character development, citizenship training, and personal fitness. Wearing a uniform gives youth and adult members a sense of identification and commitment. The uniform represents a democratic idea of equality, bringing people of different backgrounds together in the Scouting tradition. The uniform identifies youth and adult members of the Boy Scouts of America, visible as a force for good in the community. When properly and smartly worn, the uniform can build good unit spirit. The uniform shows the wearer's activity, responsibility, and achievement. The accomplishments of every youth and adult member can be recognized by the insignia worn on the uniform. The uniform is a constant reminder to all members of their commitment to the ideals and purpose of the Scouting movement. It is a way of making visible members' commitment to a belief in God, loyalty to country, and helping others at all times.

What is a class 'A' uniform?

• For Cub Scouts (1^st - 3^rd grades), see the BSA Cub Scout uniform guide.
• For Webelos (4^th and 5^th grades), see the BSA Webelos uniform guide.
• At Pack 412, we only require that boys have the appropriate uniform shirt with insignia, neckerchief and slide. A rank-specific cap and blue web belt are strongly encouraged as these are used to display certain awards.

What is a class 'B' uniform?

• The "class B" uniform consists of a Pack 412 T-shirt and dark blue pants or shorts. Pack 412 provides one pack T-shirt to each new Scout upon joining.

Where can I get a uniform?

• Huntsville Scout Shop (2211 Drake Avenue, Huntsville, AL 35805, (256)880-1488, 1-877-880-1488, Fax: (256)880-1490)
• BSA online retail store
• EBay
• Pack 412 Uniform Closet - We have a very limited supply of uniform items. Please check with the Committee Chair or Cubmaster for item availability and cost policy.

How do I attach patches to the uniform?

• Most patches can be sewn easily onto the uniform. There are "no sew" products that are adhesives that do not leave a residue when the patch is removed. Also, for rank patches, there is a diamond-shaped plastic sleeve that can hold these types of awards. All of these products are available at the Huntsville Scout Shop.

Where do patches go?

• See the BSA insignia guide or the inside cover of any rank's handbook.

Does my son need a handbook?

• Yes. Each level of Scouting has its own Handbook and it is essential for your Scout, as it spells out the requirements for advancement. Boys are strongly encouraged to bring their handbook to every meeting.

Where do I get a handbook?

• Pack 412 provides each Scout the appropriate handbook when he registers with the pack and at our end-of-year graduation ceremony. We believe it is very important that each Scout has his own handbook.

How do accomplishments get recorded? Who "signs off"?

• For Tiger Cubs through Bear (1^st - 3^rd grades), the parent/guardian and den leaders sign-off on completed requirements, electives, beltloops, etc.
• Once in Webelos (4^th and 5^th grades), only the den leader certifies completed rank and activity badge requirements but the parent/guardian may still sign-off on beltloops and pins.

Do you go camping?

• Yes. We attend the spring and fall council campouts each year and usually go on 1 or 2 family campouts each year. The Webelos dens also occasionally have their own campouts or camp with a Boy Scout troop.
• See the BSA Cub Scout Camping page for more information.

Where do I get camping equipment?

• Since we do not do any rugged backpacking, inexpensive equipment purchased from Wal-Mart or Target should suffice. There are several sports stores locally that provide equipment of a higher quality. Also, there are online distributors of camping equipment discounted for scouts such as Alps Mountaineering.

What camping equipment do I need?

• A tent and a 20-degree sleeping bag, along with a flashlight, sunscreen, bug spray, and personal toiletries, are the bare minimum to get by. A folding camp chair is highly recommended. Sturdy-soled shoes and several layers of light-weight clothing are best for warmth and protection from the elements. For cooking, inexpensive pots and pans can be used on a campfire or a personal camping stove. Propane lanterns are also a good idea.

Do you meet during the summer?

• Yes. But because we know vacation plans vary among the Scouts, we do not conduct regular den meetings but rather 1 or 2 pack activities each month (June, July, and August). These activities vary each year but could include events such as bowling, hiking, fishing, and swimming. Attendance is not mandatory. We find that keeping boys engaged with Scouts during the summer keeps them interested and ready to jump into the next school year's activities.

What is a pinewood derby?

• From the BSA Derbies page: The pinewood derby is one of the most popular and successful family activities in Cub Scouting. Pinewood derby cars are small wooden models that Cub Scouts make with help from their families. Then they race the cars in competition. The cars are powered by gravity and run down a track. Most packs have a pinewood derby every year. It can be run indoors or outdoors. Every boy can design and build his own "grand prix" car to enter in the race.

Where do I get pinewood derby kits?

• PWD kits are available at the Scout shop. As a convenience, we at Pack 412 often purchase many kits from the Scout shop and then make them available to members of our pack at a discounted price.
• Do not purchase kits from craft stores or online as they may contain modified/enhanced parts that prevent fair competition and therefore violate the contest rules.

Do you offer a pinewood derby workshop?

• Yes. We typically host a pinewood derby workshop a couple of weeks before the race. We understand that not everyone has all of the tools ore expertise that one could use to make constructing a car easier.

How can I as a parent volunteer with the pack?

• There are many opportunities for volunteer service with the Please contact the Committee Chair or Cubmaster for current opportunities.
• Please see the BSA page on "Becoming a Leader" for more information.

What training do adult leaders take?

• All adult leaders are required to take Youth Protection training. This ensures the safest environment for your son. Additionally, each leader should take training specific to his/her leadership role. There are several online and interactive classroom setting training opportunities for all leaders.
• Please see the BSA page on "Adult Cub Scout Training" for more information.

Can girls be Cub Scouts?

• Unfortunately, Cub Scouts is a program for boys only. However, all siblings of a Cub Scout, regardless of gender, are invited to participate in den and pack activities. This includes going on camping trips.

Can siblings participate?

• Yes, to a degree. We value the entire family's participation in all den and pack meetings and activities. Unfortunately, girls and non-registered siblings are not allowed to receive all of the same rank and beltloop awards that the registered Cub Scouts do. We do, however, recognize them for special awards that occur periodically.

Can mothers and grandmothers participate?

• Absolutely! Every leadership position is open to women. Additionally, a mother's participation in den meetings and other scouting activities enhances greatly the mother-son relationship and provides many good memories and examples of conduct for the Scout.

How do you handle misbehavior?

• We follow all BSA guidelines regarding behavior (see the BSA page on "Youth Protection & Adult Leadership").
• In Pack 412, all Scouts and their parents are required to sign a form acknowledging they understand the rules of behavior within the pack and that we expect them to be well-behaved boys.