Back to: Cub ScoutsFrequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are the updates taking effect on June 1?
A: In the BSA computer systems all Scouts are automatically moved from one grade to the next, this is called “roll-over”. The effect date of June 1 is to coincide with grade roll-over. As a practical matter, June 1 is the beginning of the next program year.
Q: Our schools get out past June 1st, will our Cub Scouts be able to complete their badge of rank that they are currently working on, past June 1st?
A: Yes. Scoutbook will allow you to enter the advancement of the current program between June 1 and August 31st.
Q: What do we do with current 4th graders who are Webelos?
A: Current 4th grade Webelos should focus only on Webelos required Adventures and not start any work on Arrow of Light. It is suggested that they focus on the elective Adventures that will not be available to them next year as an Arrow of Light. Those elective Adventures are Aquanaut, Art Explosion, Aware and Care, Built It, Earth Rocks!, and Modular Design.
Q: Why are awards going away?
A: The important aspect of Cub Scout awards is the content of the award and that as many Cub Scouts have the chance to experience that content as possible. The content is staying but how we deliver that content is changing, as awards are reimagined into Cub Scout Adventures. As Adventures, the content will be directly in handbooks increasing the exposure to STEM, camping, and conservation.
Q: Who was involved in making these updates?
A: The National Cub Scouting Committee is made up of volunteers from across the country, most of the members of the committee are currently active or are within two years of having been active in a local Cub Scout pack. Updates were based on feedback from over 23,000 parents and leaders from various surveys in addition to available data. The committee also utilized subject matter experts, inside and outside of Scouting, to ensure requirements are age-appropriate, consistent with the best methods, and aligned with Scouting values.
Q: How are Cub Scouts supposed to wear all those Adventure loops on their belt?
A: The number of Cub Scout electives Adventures is designed to give Cub Scouts, dens, and packs plenty of options to explore subjects that are fun, engaging, and consistent with Scouting values. The design of the program is not for Cub Scouts to earn all the elective Adventures.
The design of Adventure loops is for Cub Scouts to only wear the Adventures of the badge of rank they are currently working on. It is recommended that Adventures from previous ranks are displayed with a homemade craft such as wood paint stirrers or a display board.
Q: Why the change to 4th grade Webelos in blue Cub Scout uniforms?
A: The majority of 4th grade Webelos in Cub Scouting were active in Cub Scouting as a 3rd grader and already have a blue uniform. This allows Cub Scouts to get the most use out of their Cub Scout uniform. Transitioning into a tan Scouts BSA uniform should be done when the Cub Scout has decided that they will continue in Scouting and join a Scouts BSA Troop. The Arrow of Light badge of rank is designed to prepare a Cub Scout to join Scouts BSA making it the best time to transition into a tan Scouts BSA uniform. This also allows a family to get the most out of the tan Scouts BSA uniform.
