The Lion program is for girls and boys who are in kindergarten or are ages 5-6. This is a great introduction to Scouting! To earn the Lion badge, a Scout must complete the six required Adventures with his/her den or family, and at least two elective Adventures with his/her den or family. As the Scout completes each Adventure, they will receive the Adventure loop for that adventure, which they can wear on their belt. When the Scout has completed the eight required Adventures, they can receive the Lion badge. The Lion badge is given to the Scout's adult partner at a Pack Meeting.
After the Scout has earned the Lion badge, a Lion Scout can work on the remaining twelve Lion electives until he/she finishes kindergarten (or turns 7 years old). They can choose elective Adventures that may show them new hobbies and teach them skills that will be useful during his/her BSA Scout years. When he/she completes an elective Adventure, the Scout receives an additional Adventure loop to wear on their belt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often and for how long does the den meet?
A: The den meets for eight to nine months of the year, one time per month for a den meeting. The den meetings usually last for one hour. Additionally, there may be outings and meetings for the whole pack. These meetings and/or outings may be longer depending on the activity.
Q: Do Lions memorize the Scout Oath and Scout Law?
A: Lions are not asked to memorize the Scout Oath and Scout Law. The Lion program is an introduction to Cub Scouting. The goal is for Lions to start becoming familiar with the ideas and not emphasize memorization.
Q: What type of uniform does the Lion wear?
A: A Lion T-shirt, scout belt, and an optional cap specifically designed for Lion youth is available at the local council Scout shop. Additionally, Scouts will be provided with a Class B t-shirt to wear at pack-wide events.
Q: Do Lions have advancement like the other levels in the Cub Scouting program?
A: Lions will be awarded Adventure belt loops as they complete each requirement.
Q: Will Lions be a part of the pack?
A: Yes. Lions are a part of the Cub Scout pack. All Lions should at least attend 2-3 Pack meetings per year and more if their families’ desire. The Lion program is designed to introduce 5-year-old kindergarten-age girls and boys to the fun and excitement of Scouting, but in ways that maintain age appropriate expectations. Because of their age, development level, physical abilities, and stamina, Lions should participate in pack activities as their families feel comfortable with the age appropriateness of the activities.
For more information about the Lion Program, check out www.scouting.org/lion