Cub Scout Advancement
On the Cub Scout advancement trail, a Scout progresses from rank to rank (grade to grade), learning new skills along the way. As Cub Scouts get older and advance through the ranks, the requirements become more challenging to match their new skills and abilities. Cub Scout advancement includes a wide range of group and individual activities youth enjoy – and values parents prize. The activities are carefully selected to encourage physical, intellectual, character and leadership development.
Growing your Dens and Packs with advancement – and personal welcoming, fun activities, and easy ways to do fun and advancement – was the big takeaway of the 2026 Rocking Recruiting “Intermission” Zoom meeting – click here to land at the beginning of that segment reviewing ways to have a better Cub Scout program and increase Cub Scout families returning year after year. For your convenience, attached at the bottom of this page is this handout with the many links referenced in that segment.
Be a hero to your Scout and their friends by leading Handbook Adventures in their den. How? Check out our simpler “Assembled” Den Meeting Plans for each rank and grade through the links below!
The ranks and activities tied to a Cub Scout’s grade are as follows:
Kindergarten Cub Scouts work toward the Lion badge by doing adventures in the Lion Handbook – please click on this link to go the Lion Rank Advancement page.
Beyond The Ranks – Additional Awards and Recognition: |
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This award recognizes a Scout who recruits a friend into Scouting. Any Scout can recruit a friend and earn this badge. |
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Each of 37 major religions or religious organizations have organized an Emblem program that adherents can pursue to strengthen their faith. |
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To recognize individuals who participate in a Messengers of Peace project (service project) – youth and adults. A global service project program carried out by Scouts throughout the world. |
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Check out where to put all your patches on your uniform! |
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| File Name | Description | |
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| Recruiting Intermission Resource Links and QRs | Download |