Every rank in scouting is reached by accomplishments by the scout. These requirements are age-appropriate activities that help grow and mold the boy into a self-sufficient, confident, able man. Themes run through the requirements from the beginning Tiger to the Eagle. For instance, when a Wolf scout cooks cookies with his mother, that begins to train him to cook for his patrol as a Life scout. And, when a Tiger Cub visits a police station he begins learning how to be a model citizen.
Bobcat Rank
This is the first rank a Cub Scout earns. No matter what age or grade a boy joins Cub Scouting, he must earn his Bobcat badge before he can advance to the rank of Tiger Cub, Wolf, Bear, or Webelos.
Tiger Cub Rank
The Tiger Cub program is for boys ages 7 years old or in the 1st grade. To begin his path to the Tiger Cub rank, the Tiger Cub must learn the Cub Scout promise, the Cub Scout sign, and the Cub Scout salute. When he has accomplished these tasks, he will be awarded his Tiger Cub immediate recognition emblem. This is a tiger paw with four strands for beads that he wears on the right pocket.
Wolf Rank
The Wolf rank is for boys who have completed first grade (or who are 8 years old). To earn the Wolf badge, a boy must pass 12 achievements involving simple physical and mental skills. His parent or guardian approves each achievement by signing his book. When all requirements are satisfied, the Wolf badge is presented to his parent or guardian at the next pack meeting in an impressive advancement ceremony, during which the parent or guardian in turn presents the badge to the boy.
Bear Rank
Any boy may earn Bear achievements and electives if he is in the third grade, or is nine years old. To earn the Bear badge, a boy must complete 12 of the 24 specified achievements. He can select the ones he wants to do from four different groups: God, Country, Family, and Self. Details regarding the completion of the achievements and associated electives can be found in the BSA Bear Cub Scout Book.
Webelos Rank
Webelos dens are for boys who have completed third grade (or reached age 10). The Webelos den program is different from the Cub Scout den program: Instead of being based on a monthly theme, the Webelos den program is based on one of 20 Webelos activities. Webelos Scouts work on requirements during their weekly den meetings. Once the boy learns the skill, he practices it at den meetings and at home on his own. The boy’s family is encouraged to help him at home.
The Story of Two Wolves
Long ago, an old Native American grandfather told his grandson, “There are two wolves fighting inside all of us constantly–the wolf of fear and hate, and the wolf of love and peace.” The grandson looked up at his grandfather and asked, “Which one will win?” The grandfather replied, “The one we feed.”
