The Cub Scouts Bear den is for children in the 3rd grade (typically 8–9 years old) who are working toward the Bear rank in Cub Scouting.

What Is the Bear Den?

• Grade Level: 3rd Grade

• Age Range: Around 8–9 years old

• Rank: Bear — the fourth Cub Scout rank, after Lion (Kindergarten), Tiger (1st Grade), and Wolf (2nd Grade)

• Group: The Bear den is a small group of kids in the same grade who meet regularly with a Den Leader to work on Bear-level adventures.
  
  

What Do Bear Scouts Do?

Bear Scouts take on more advanced activities, learning practical skills, citizenship, outdoor safety, and how to make good choices — while still having plenty of fun.

Bear Adventures

To earn the Bear badge, a scout must complete:

• 6 required adventures

• 1 elective adventure

• Plus attend a pack event or outing
  
  

Family Involvement

• At this stage, kids are expected to do more on their own.

• Parents still support at home, especially with elective adventures and family-based requirements.

• The Den Leader, often a trained parent volunteer, leads group meetings.
  
  

What Bear Scouts Learn

• Basic knife safety

• Camping and hiking skills

• Citizenship and community service

• Problem-solving, teamwork, and personal responsibility
  
  

Bear Den Meetings

• Typically three times per month

• Include:

  • Hands-on activities

  • Group games or projects

  • Short outings or field trips

• Plus pack meetings with all dens
  
  

What They Earn

• The Bear badge (worn on the uniform)

• Belt loops for every adventure completed

• Recognition at pack meetings in front of families and fellow scouts
  
  

Why the Bear Year Is Important

The Bear year helps kids:

• Grow in confidence and skill

• Learn real-world abilities like using tools, following rules, and helping others

• Explore nature, science, and community in fun, structured ways