Webelos is a rank of Cub Scouts. It is a program designed to help boys prepare for the rank of Boy Scouts. It is for boys in fourth and fifth grade who have earned their Bobcat, Tiger, Wolf, and Bear badges. Webelos have opportunities to earn 20 badges in this program. Boys that have not participated in Cub Scouts before can also enter at this level.
Another agenda for the Webelos rank is to transition from a predominantly adult-run organization to a predominantly boy-run organization. Webelos are given much more control over their activities and programs than in prior ranks. While there is still adult interaction and supervision (mostly coming from the den leader), the Webelos learn how to make decisions, delegate roles, and in the process grow in maturity.
To earn the Webelos badge, in order to move on to Boy Scouts one must:
- Be an active member of his den for at least 3 months.
- Know all the parts of the Webelos badge and their meanings.
- Plan and lead a flag ceremony.
- Plus learn and know codes and pledges.
- You can find all requirements at Boy Scouts of America National Council.
Whereas in the lower Cub Scout ranks parents had to sign off on activities that were completed by the scouts, now the den leader takes over this role.
The 20 opportunities to earn badges in Webelos is broken into five categories. These include:
- Physical Skills Group
- Mental Skills Group
- Community Group
- Technology Group
- Outdoor Group
Each group has numerous activities and projects for Webelos to work on. They do not have to be done in order, but usually troops like to plan things together, so everyone has the chance to earn the same badge. It encourages teamwork, as well.
Webelos sure have a lot of fun with their scouting experience. They participate in games, competitions, and camp outings. They have plenty of opportunity for completing service projects and have fundraisers to support individual troops. All of this is done with the mind-set that Webelos must become more independent and develop the skills necessary to become Boy Scouts.
Webelos also live by a set of character traits called "Webelos Virtues." The virtues include:
- Wisdom
- Courage
- Self-Control
- Justice
- Faith
- Hope
- Love
You can read more about these virtues at the Boy Scout Trail.
Of course, Webelos need a uniform that signifies their rank. The uniform includes:
- Shirt
- Neckerchief
- Slide
- Shoulder loops
- Cap
- Belt
- Shorts
- Socks
- Handbook
All this runs about $97.00 retail. You can find great deals eBay. Patches and badges that Webelos earn during their rank cost money, too, but these are pretty reasonable ranging from $1.50 to $3.00. Again, you can find great deals on eBay.
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