THE "SHARED LEADERSHIP" CONCEPT
 

 

WHAT IS SHARED LEADERSHIP?   The Tiger Cub Adult Partner The success of a Tiger Cub den depends on active, enthusiastic families and a knowledgeable, well-trained den leader. The den leader plans and carries out a year - round program of activities for the Tiger Cub den and gives continuity to the program. Each month, however, the den leader also works with a different boy-adult partner team to plan the two monthly den meetings, the Go See It, and the den's part in the pack meeting. (Some teams may serve more than one month, depending on how big the den is.) This is called shared leadership. Shared leadership is a key part of Tiger Cubs because the direct involvement of you and other adults is important for boys at this age. Shared leadership also gives each boy and adult partner a chance to lead, often resulting in an interesting variety of activities as each boy - adult partner team shares its knowledge and resources.     The Tiger Cub Den Leader The Tiger Cub den leader is a registered volunteer position within the BSA. Each Tiger Den MUST include a person in this role. The responsibilities of the Tiger Cub den leader can be summarized as: Work directly with other den and pack leaders to ensure that their den is an active and successful part of the pack.   Coordinate shared leadership among the Tiger Cub adult partners, ensuring that den meetings and outings are planned, prepared for, and con-ducted by all adult partners on a rotating basis, and that the den activities provide advancement opportunities for the boys in the den.   Attend pack leaders' meetings.   Lead the den at the monthly meeting and pack activities.   Ensure the transition of boys in the Tiger Cub den into a Wolf den at the end of the year. See the Cub Scout Leader Book for additional information concerning the responsibilities of this position. BACK TO TOP

 

THE TIGER CUB ADVANCEMENT PLAN
 

 

WORKING ON ACHIEVEMENTS AND ELECTIVES In Scouting, advancement is the process by which a member meets certain requirements and earns recognition. Boys in Cub Scouting work on advancement with their families. The Tiger Cub advancement program is a blend of activities boys do in their home and activities they do in a den setting with their adult partner. This is unique to Tiger Cubs. A Tiger Cub may earn the Tiger Cub rank. This rank is for those boys who are in first grade or are 7 years old. All the Cub Scout ranks (Tiger Cub, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos) are tailored for a grade and the corresponding age level. (A Tiger Cub must earn the Tiger Cub badge first and then the Bobcat badge [rank] before all other ranks. See here for the Bobcat badge requirements.) To advance, Tiger Cubs work on achievements and electives, which are described in the Tiger Cub handbook. As a boy completes these, you, his adult partner, sign in this handbook where it says "Akela's OK." Akela means "good leader" and is an important part of Cub Scouting. Akela can be a den leader, a teacher, or other important adult. As your boy's adult partner, you are Akela. As boys advance, they receive recognition items to mark their progress. These items will be given to them during a simple ceremony at a pack or den meeting. It is important for boys to be recognized for the good work they do. The Tiger Cub recognition items are the Tiger Cub belt totem and totem beads, the Tiger Cub badge, and Tiger Track beads. (Although participation with an adult partner is required for all Tiger Cub awards, adult partners don't earn these awards. Recognition items are for boys only.) BACK TO TOP

 

THE TIGER CUB BELT TOTEM
AN INSTANT RECOGNITION TOOL
 

 

EARNING THE TIGER CUB BELT TOTEM To begin his path towards the Tiger Cub rank, a boy must do three things. They are:   Learn the "Tiger Cub Motto" (The MOTTO is: "SEARCH, DISCOVER, SHARE ") Learn the "Cub Scout Sign" Learn the "Cub Scout Salute"     When he has done these, he is awarded the Tiger Cub belt totem at a pack meeting. This is a plastic recognition device that he wears on his belt. The front side of the totem is emblazoned with a tiger paw print.The lower end of the totem includes space for four strands for totem beads. A boy earns totem beads by working on the five Tiger Cub achievements. HOW TO USE TOTEM BEADS There are five achievements in Tiger Cubs: Making My Family Special Where I Live Keeping Myself Healthy and Safe How I Tell It Let's Go Outdoors   Each achievement has three parts: a family activity, a den activity, and a Go See It outing. A boy receives totem beads as he completes each part: He earns a white bead for each required 'family activity' part he completes. He earns an orange bead for each required 'den activity' part he completes. He earns a black bead for each required 'Go See It' part he completes. These beads go on the first three strands of the Tiger Cub belt totem. (The fourth strand is for Tiger Track beads which signify completed electives.)   A boy can earn only one bead for each of the 15 achievement parts, regardless of how many times he may repeat a part. As each bead is awarded and added to a boy's belt totem, he should be recognized with a simple ceremony at a den meeting. When a boy has earned all 15 beads, he is eligible to receive his Tiger Cub badge, signifying that he has earned the Tiger Cub rank.     BACK TO TOP

 

TIGER CUB MEETINGS
 

 

- A MEETING PRIMER -   When Do Tiger Cubs Meet? To experience the fun, excitement, and other benefits of Cub Scouting, you and your Tiger Cub will do the following things each month:   Go to two one-hour den meetings at the host adult partner's home or other location. Leaders will try to hold the meetings at a time that is convenient for all adult partners and is appropriate for boys of Tiger Cub age. Some dens meet at a school, a place of worship, or the location of their chartered organization. But meetings can be held almost anywhere-in a basement, recreation room, backyard, or park - as long as the meeting location is safe for boys and their families.   Take a field trip, or Go See It, with the entire den. The Go See It is a planned field trip to a place that is interesting to boys. It may be associated with the monthly theme   Attend the Cub Scout pack meeting.   Planning the Tiger Cub Den Meeting With shared leadership, each month a different boy-adult partner works with the Tiger Cub den leader to plan the two monthly den meetings and the Go See It. Together, they also organize the participation of the den at the monthly pack meeting. It is important that each boy-adult partner team has a turn at planning and conducting the den activities. The Tiger Cub Den Meeting Program form, found in the Cub Scout Leader Book, helps leaders and boy - adult partner teams plan weekly Tiger Cub meetings. The den meetings will be based on the theme of the month (see "Using the Monthly Theme in the Den Meeting" below) or on one of the den activity parts of an achievement. (You'll read more about the three parts of achievements below.)   The Tiger Cub den leader and the host adult partner can also use the resources of other families in the den for den activities. Let the boys give their ideas, too. See "Tiger Cub Den Resources" on page 17 for creative program ideas. Remember: A well-planned den meeting will hold the boys' interest, and they will be excited to return.   Using the Monthly Theme In the Den Meeting Each year, Cub Scout Program Helps (No. 34304) suggests 12 monthly themes suitable for Tiger Cubs and Cub Scouts. This annual publication includes songs, skits, games, crafts, and ideas for Go See It activities that complement the theme. Boys' Life magazine also features ideas and articles each month on the recommended theme, and the monthly adult leader roundtable meetings provide program ideas and instruction for these same themes. (You'll read more about roundtable below.)   Packs aren't required to use the recommended theme each month, but they are chosen and planned to appeal to boys and to offer opportunities for them, and you, to achieve the purposes of Cub Scouting (see page 24 for more about the purposes of Cub Scouting). By following the themes, den leaders and the Cub master have a lot of support material available to them.   Tiger Cub den leaders and host adult partners introduce the theme at the first den meeting of the month. The activities for the second den meeting and the pack meeting also use the monthly theme. Therefore, the theme provides continuity among the two den meetings, the Go See It, and the pack meeting. The theme is different each month, which helps provide variety and hold the boys' interest.     Possible Monthly Themes All Aboard: All about trains Blast Off: Rocket ships, space program Circus Fun: Three-ring circus with animals and acts Exciting Explorers: Famous adventurers and their accomplishments Hometown Heroes: Recognize people who make a difference in your community Land Before Time: Dinosaurs Magic: Secrets of the magicians' art, amazing feats Rodeo: A look at the Wild West Treasure Chest: Pirates Visiting Other Lands: Cultures from around the world   Parts of a Tiger Cub Den Meeting The focus of every den meeting plan should be based on the Tiger Cub motto: Search, Discover, Share. The Tiger Cub den meeting plan in Cub Scout Program Helps divides the meeting into eight parts. Each part has a purpose, so the den meeting will be better for the boys if you follow this pattern. It will make planning and running the den meetings easier.   Parts of a Tiger Cub Den Meeting Before the Meeting Gathering Opening Share Discover Search Closing Before the meeting. The purpose of this part of the meeting is to give the den leader and the host adult partner time to make preparations, gather supplies, set out the U.S. flag, and take care of any last-minute details before the boys and their adult partners arrive.   The Gathering is an activity or game that keeps the boys interested and busy while everybody else arrives. Planning activities for when Tiger Cubs arrive will help avoid some of the behavior problems that can happen when boys don't have enough to do. The gathering time also gives the den leader time to take attendance, collect dues, and keep track of the achievements each boy has completed while the host adult partner is with the boys.   The Opening is the official start of the den meeting. Whereas the gathering time is an informal time, the opening is an organized activity that signals the beginning of the meeting. Here are some ideas:   Most den meetings begin with a flag ceremony. At this time, the boys can practice saying the Tiger Cub motto and the Cub Scout Promise. A brief prayer may be included, but always be sensitive to the diverse religious beliefs. The opening may also include boisterous action or a song. A roll call isn't necessary, but boys like to hear their names being said. if the meeting relates to a monthly theme, such as jungle animals, each boy could respond with the name of a jungle animal.   The Share part of the den meeting gives each boy an opportunity to share something that he has done since the last meeting. This activity gives boys time to share family experiences.   For the Discover time, the den leader may introduce the monthly theme and talk about what the den will be doing for the pack meeting. Then, the boys will play games, work on craft projects and puzzles, take part in outdoor activities, or work on advancement requirements. The den leader can initial requirements in each boy's handbook as the boy completes them. (You, the adult partner, also sign in the handbook; see more about advancement here.)   Den activities that boys and their adult partners can do together are the best. They are a team, so they should participate and have fun as a team.   Boys love to play games, so each meeting should include at least one game. It can be indoors or outdoors, quiet or active. The host Tiger Cub could lead the game. Once again, adult partners should be included.   Sometimes, boys will do a craft project during a den meeting. For instance, around the holidays, boys could do holiday-related crafts or make something that is needed for the pack meeting. Some projects can be completed during one or two den meetings, but others might require that you and your Tiger Cub work together at home The den leader and host adult partner can explain the project and help the boys do it. (You and other adult partners can be very helpful during craft time.)   During the Search time of the meeting, the leaders will talk about plans for the Go See It. Boys love to get out and see new things. This activity could fulfill one of the achievement requirements or one of the elective requirements, and/or it could relate to the monthly theme.   The Closing period draws the meeting to an end and is usually more serious and quiet. Den leaders might present a thought for the day, have the boys say the Tiger Cub motto or the Cub Scout Promise together, and/or give everyone last-minute reminders about upcoming events. Leaders can also use this time to reinforce the 12 core values of Cub Scouting (you'll read about the 12 core values on page 26 tin the Tiger Cub Handbook).   After the Meeting, the den leader and host adult partner review the events of the meeting and finalize plans for the next meeting and the upcoming pack meeting. If this is the second den meeting of the month, the den leader may meet with the host adult partner for the next month to plan and/or preview that month's den activities.   The Tiger Cub Den Meeting Program form helps the den leader and host adult partner plan a den meeting. A few days before the den meeting, they fill in the details for each portion of the den meeting, including the plan and the supplies and equipment needed.   BACK TO TOP

 

THE WELL DRESSED TIGER CUB
 

 

TIGER CUB UNIFORMS

The uniform is an important part of the Scouting program. It identifies the boys and adults with Tiger Cubs and gives them a sense of belonging to the den, the pack, and the Boy Scouts of America. Most boys enjoy wearing their Tiger Cub uniform. They should wear it to all den meetings, pack meetings, and special pack activities. The uniform for the Tiger Cub is the official Tiger Cub orange T-shirt with the Tiger Cub emblem on the front. The official Tiger Cub cap and blue web belt with a Tiger Cub buckle are optional. Adult partners don't have to wear a uniform, but it is highly recommended that they also wear a Tiger Cub orange sweatshirt or T- shirt. The Tiger Cub den leader wears the official Cub Scout leader uniform, the Tiger Cub cap, and the Tiger Cub leader neckerchief.

Official Tiger Cub Shirt Official Tiger Cub Cap Official Tiger Cub Belt

 

EARNING THE TIGER CUB BADGE
"HELPING YOUR BOY ALONG THE TIGER CUB TRAIL..."
 

 

THE TIGER CUB TRAIL   The Tiger Cub badge is for boys who have completed all 15 parts of the five achievements, that is, five family activities, five den activities, and five Go See It outings. During an impressive ceremony, the Tiger Cub badge is presented to the adult partner at a pack meeting, who in turn presents the badge to the boy. The badge is affixed to the Tiger Cub belt totem in the recessed area. While your boy is working on advancement, you can help. Besides signing his handbook as Akela once he has done his best, let your den leader know of any completed parts of achievements at your next den meeting. The den leader will keep a record of your boy's individual progress on the Tiger Cub Den Advancement Chart. In addition, your boy, with your help, will keep track of his own advancement on the Tiger Trail chart found on page 152 of his handbook. This encourages him and helps him see his progress toward the Tiger Cub rank. The advancement requirements are written in such a way as to give you room to customize activities for your boy and your den. There are no performance requirements for Tiger Cubs. Boys should never be "tested" or placed in a position where they will not be successful. Simply participating in the activities and doing his best constitutes completion. The den activities and 'Go See It' outings are intended to be completed with the den. If a Tiger Cub is unable to participate in an activity because of illness or a conflict, however, you may work with him to complete these requirements. For your boy to receive the full benefit of the program, it is important for you, his adult partner, to make every effort to attend meetings regularly. At the end of the school year, he will graduate into a Wolf Cub Scout den. Later, he will be in a Bear den, and then he'll become a Webelos Scout. The following requirement items are prefaced with the letters "F," "D," or "G." These denote: F = A "FAMILY" oriented requirement D = A "DEN" oriented requirement G = A "GO SEE IT" oriented requirement (i.e. field trip)       THE TIGER CUB ACHIEVEMENTS   EARNING THE "TIGER CUB BADGE" Making My Family Special 1F - Think of one chore you can do with your adult partner. Complete it together 1D - Make a family scrapbook 1G - Go to a library, historical society, museum, old farm, or historical building, or visit an older person in your community. Discover how family life was the same and how it was different many years ago. Where I Live 2F - Look at a map of your community with your adult partner. 2D - Practice the Pledge of Allegiance with your den, and participate in a den or pack flag ceremony. 2G - Visit a police station or fire station. Ask someone who works there how he or she helps people in your community. Keeping Myself Healthy and Safe 3Fa - With your family, plan a fire drill and then practice it in your home. 3Fb - With your adult partner, plan what to do if you become lost or separated from your family in a strange place. 3D - Make a food guide pyramid. 3G - Learn the rules of a game or sport. Then go watch an amateur or professional game or sporting event. How I Tell It 4F - At a family meal, have each family member take turns telling the others one thing that happened to him or her that day. Remember to practice being a good listener while you wait for your turn to talk. 4D - Play "Tell It Like It Isn't." 4G - Visit a television station, radio station, or newspaper office. Find out how people there communicate to others. Let's Go Outdoors 5F - Go outside and watch the weather. 5D - With a crayon or colored pencil and a piece of paper, make a leaf rubbing. 5G - Take a hike with your den.     When you and your boy have followed the five steps of the Tiger Cub, your boy has earned his Tiger Cub badge. The badge should be ceremoniously presented as soon as possible at an upcoming Pack meeting.     BACK TO TOP

 

TIGER ELECTIVES AND TIGER TRACK BEADS
"ADDITIONAL RECOGNITIONS FOR THE TIGER CUB"
 

 

ELECTIVES AND TIGER TRACK BEADS After your boy has earned the Tiger Cub badge, he can earn Tiger Track beads - by completing elective activities in this handbook. Tiger Cubs strives to provide an opportunity for your boy to learn and grow while having fun along with you. The wide variety of electives allows your Tiger Cub to choose additional activities and receive recognition for his participation. The electives help broaden a boy's horizons and fulfill the Tiger Cub motto of Search, Discover, Share. Electives provide advancement opportunities and recognition for your boy until he is eligible to begin working on the Wolf rank. A boy shouldn't feel, however, that he must do all of the electives. Some may not appeal to him, and some he may want to do more than once. if a boy completes an elective activity twice, it may be counted as two electives. But at the same time, try to avoid much repetition, as variety will keep Tiger Cubs more interesting for your boy. As with the achievements, you, the adult partner, approve your boy's completion of electives by signing the handbook in the space provided for "Akela's OK." Then let your den leader know about completed electives. The den leader will fill in the Tiger Cub Den Advancement Report, found in the Cub Scout Leader Book, to show Tiger Track beads earned and give the report to the pack committee at the monthly pack leaders' meeting. In addition, your boy, with your help, will keep track of his own elective advancement on the Tiger Track Trail found on page 154 of his handbook. Here's how earning Tiger Track beads works: A boy earns one Tiger Track bead for every 10 electives he completes. The Tiger Track bead is presented to you, the adult partner, at a pack meeting, and you in turn present it to your boy. The Tiger Track beads are suspended from one the the lace strands on the Tiger Cub Totem. A boy may work concurrently on both achievement and elective projects; however, he can't receive Tiger Track beads until he has earned the Tiger Cub badge. The Tiger Cub Handbook documents all of the Tiger Cub Electives with ideas and tips for the Tiger Cub and his Adult partner. The following list enumerates the 50 Tiger Cub electives by elective number and name.     How Do You Celebrate? Making Decorations Fun and Games Display a Picture Family Mobile Song Time Play Along Your Religious Leaders A New Friend Helping Hands Helping the Needy A Friendly Greeting Making Change Reading Fun Our Colorful World Collecting and Other Hobbies Make a Model Sew a Button Magic Fun Get the Word Out The Show Must Go On Picnic Fun What Kind of Milk? Help in the Kitchen Snack Time Phone Manners Emergency! Smoke Detectors Safety in the Sun Plant a Seed Learn About Animals Feed the Birds Cleanup Treasure Hunt Conservation Fun Outdoors See a Performance Take a Bicycle Ride Bicycle Repair Go to Work Fun in the Water Transportation Fun at the Zoo Pet Care Dairy Products Fresh Baking Healthy Teeth and Gums Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Go for a Ride Your Government Banking

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