FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a den and a pack?
A den is a small group of Scouts who are all in the same grade — typically 6 to 8 youth. Dens meet regularly to work on rank adventures together. A pack is the larger group made up of all the dens. The full pack gathers for bigger events like the Pinewood Derby, Blue and Gold Banquet, and service projects.
What rank will my child be in?
Rank is determined by your child’s current grade in school:
| Rank | Grade |
|---|---|
| Lion | Kindergarten |
| Tiger | 1st Grade |
| Wolf | 2nd Grade |
| Bear | 3rd Grade |
| Webelos | 4th Grade |
| Arrow of Light | 5th Grade |
If your child joins mid-year, they enter the rank for their current grade and work toward completing that year’s adventures.
How often does the den meet?
Dens typically meet twice a month. The full pack gathers for additional events throughout the year. Your den leader will share the specific meeting schedule at the start of the program year.
What do Scouts do at meetings?
Den meetings focus on earning Adventures — the activity-based requirements for each rank. Scouts might do crafts, learn first aid basics, work on citizenship projects, or practice outdoor skills. Pack meetings celebrate achievements, introduce upcoming events, and build community across all the dens.
Do parents need to attend meetings?
For Lion (Kindergarten) and Tiger (1st Grade) dens, yes — every Scout must be accompanied by a parent or adult partner at each den meeting. This is a Scouting America program requirement, not just a Pack 300 rule. For Wolf through Arrow of Light, parents are always welcome but are not required at every den meeting.
How can I volunteer?
Cub Scouting runs entirely on parent volunteers. Open roles include:
- Den Leader or Assistant Den Leader
- Cubmaster or Assistant Cubmaster
- Committee Chair, Advancement Chair, Secretary, or Treasurer
No experience is needed — free training is available online at my.Scouting.org. Reach out to our Cubmaster at cubmaster@pack300.org to get started.
What does Cub Scouting cost?
Scouting America charges the following annual registration fees:
- Youth registration: $85/year
- Adult leader registration: $65/year
- Scout Life magazine (optional, recommended): $15/year
Pack 300 also collects pack dues to cover awards, supplies, and activities — contact the pack for our current rate. Uniform and handbook costs vary; see scoutshop.org for pricing. Financial assistance is available — ask the Cubmaster for information.
What is Youth Protection training?
Youth Protection training is an online course required by Scouting America for all registered adult volunteers. It covers how to recognize and prevent abuse, and must be renewed every two years. Parents and guardians are also encouraged to complete it. The free course is available at my.Scouting.org. More information is at scouting.org/training/youth-protection.
How do I track my child’s advancement?
Download the free Scouting app (available on Apple and Android) or log in at Scoutbook. Both tools let you view completed adventure requirements, record achievements at home, and stay up to date on your Scout’s progress. Let your den leader know when your child completes requirements outside of den meetings so they can be recorded.
Where do I buy a uniform?
Official Cub Scout uniforms and handbooks are sold at ScoutShop.org and at your local Scouting America council service center. Your den leader can tell you exactly which pieces are required for your child’s rank. Second-hand uniforms are often available through the pack — ask at a meeting.
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