Cub Scouting Basics

The Cub Scout sign is made with the right arm held high and straight up above the shoulder, with the index and middle fingers forming a V. The other fingers are held down by the thumb. It's the sign of Cub Scouts all over the world.The two raised fingers stand for the Scout Oath and the Scout Law.

The fingers look like the sharp ears of the wolf ready to listen to Akela! Leaders and boys should give the Cub Scout sign when repeating the Scout Oath or the Scout Law.

Cub Scout Salute

The Cub Scout salute is made by joining the index and middle fingers of the right hand (holding the other fingers with the thumb) and touching them to the cap visor or forehead above the right eyebrow. The hand is held the same as for the Cub Scout sign, except the index and middle fingers are together.

The salute is used to salute the flag when in uniform--otherwise hold your right hand over your heart. It can also be used when greeting other Scouts.

Cub Scout Handshake

The Cub Scout handshake is made by putting the index and middle fingers of the right hand against the other person's wrist when shaking hands. The handshake means that each Scout will help others to remember and obey the Scout Oath and Scout Law.

The Living Circle

The Living Circle is a ceremony that is used occasionally as an opening or closing at a Cub Scout meeting. It reminds boys of the friendships they are making that link them together with other Cub Scouts.To form a Living Circle, Cub Scouts and leaders stand in a close circle, facing inward and slightly to the right. With their right hands, they make the Cub Scout sign. With their left hands, they reach into the center of the circle. Each thumb is pointed to the right, and each person grasps the thumb of the person on his left, making a complete Living Circle handclasps. The Scout Oath, the Scout Law, or Cub Scout motto can then be repeated.

The Living Circle can also be used by moving all the left hands up and down in a pumping motion while the members say, "A-ke-la! We-e-e-ll do-o-o- ou-r-r best," snapping into a circle of individual salutes (with right hands) at the word "best."