As early as 1911, Ernest Thompson Seton had developed a prototype program he named Cub Scouts of America that was never implemented.

In spite of this, unofficial programs for younger boys started around this time, under names such as Junior Troops or Cadet Corps.

This led to an issue with Daniel Carter Beard who felt that the use of the British book was nearly disloyal to the United States of America.

[8][9] On my honor I will do my best To do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law; To help other people at all times; To keep myself physically strong mentally awake, and morally straight.

A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent.

The chartered organization is responsible for selecting leadership, providing a meeting place and promoting a good program.

The pack meets once a month, providing a program for Cub Scouts, leaders, parents and other family members attending.

A Cub Scout is elected to the Denner position to provide basic leadership to the den.

[16] However, some councils are now getting ready to pilot mixed-gender Scouts BSA troops for a one year initial trial.

[17] The uniform gives a Cub Scout visibility and creates a level of identity within both the unit and the community.

Wolves also wear the Cub Scout belt and blue socks topped with a ring of yellow.

Bears also wear the Cub Scout belt and blue socks topped with a ring of yellow.

Webelos typically wear the Cub Scout uniform, with one unique addition being the Adventure colors ribbons worn on the right sleeve to hold the pins they earn.

Webelos also wear the Cub Scout belt and blue socks topped with a ring of yellow.

Arrow of Light emblem (youth) and knot (adult) Advancement is one of the methods used to promote the aims of character development, citizenship training, personal fitness, and leadership.

Everything a Cub Scout does in the advancement program is intended to achieve these aims and aid in personal growth.

[20][21] On June 1, 2024, Cub Scouts reworked all of the ranks to harmonize and simplify the adventure system.

Outside of the requirements, Lion Scouts can also complete any number of sixteen elective adventures of their den's or family's choosing.

Earning the Arrow of Light allows a youth to join a Scout troop at ten years of age instead of eleven.

These are generally recognized by a medal and an embroidered square knot that can also be worn on the Scouting uniform.

Cub Scout leaders who complete training, tenure, and performance requirements are recognized by a system of awards.

The pack overnighter is a pack-organized camping activity that provides Cub Scouts with positive outdoor experiences.

Cub Scout day camp or twilight camp is an accredited, organized, one- to five-day program for Cub Scouts using trained leadership at an approved site, and is usually held during daylight or early evening hours, but not overnight.

[32] A number of "high-risk" outdoor activities are banned by Scouting America (including Cubs), and others are limited to special programs.

[33] Fast Start Training is the introduction for adult leaders new to the Cub Scout program.

[34] Youth Protection Training[34] is required for all adult leaders and must be recertified per local council policy.

Wood Badge consists of six days of training (usually presented as two three-day weekends) and an application phase of several months.

When training is complete, leaders are recognized with the Wood Badge beads, neckerchief and woggle.