No Cub Scout wants to wait several months to be recognized for hard work. The Cub Scouting program recognizes completion of intermediate steps leading to rank advancement by awarding immediate recognition. Each adventure for Lion through Bear has a metal adventure loop that is designed to be worn on the Cub Scout’s belt. To purchase adventure loops at the Scout shop, an advancement report is not required. This allows for the den leader or other pack leadership to purchase adventure loops ahead of time and have them ready to present once a Cub Scout has completed the adventure.

 

Adventure loops are color-coded to each rank. Required adventure loops have full-color logos, and elective adventure loops have single color logos. Advancement gives Scouts a means of measuring their progress. Credit is given to the Cub Scout for each requirement when the den leader is satisfied that the Scout has done their best. Ensuring that Cub Scouts are recognized immediately and publicly for their efforts is an important part of the advancement process.

 

No Scout should have to wait for more than two weeks to receive a device and be recognized for their accomplishments. Your pack may approach this in a variety of ways: • The den leader may provide the belt loop or adventure pin at the final meeting when the Cub Scouts complete the adventure. At the following pack meeting, the Scouts would then receive a certificate during a brief ceremony. • The pack may provide certificates for den leaders to award when Scouts complete the adventure and then present the adventure loops and pins at the next pack meeting. Packs are encouraged to find a method that works well for the families in the pack, guided by principles that recognition is both immediate to encourage the Cub Scouts and public to celebrate their success.

 

Advancement provides a satisfying means of recognizing Cub Scouts for their progress. Cub Scouts have a ladder to climb, with recognition at each step. Presenting awards in meaningful ceremonies to recognize their accomplishments is a principle of advancement. Advancement is not competition. Each Cub Scout is encouraged to advance steadily and purposefully, setting their own goals with guidance from family and leaders. Measurement for satisfying requirements is “Do Your Best,” and that level can be different for each Cub Scout.