Introduces kindergarten‑age youth to Cub Scouting through grade‑appropriate adventures that build curiosity, teamwork, and early Scouting skills.
Merit badges give Scouts the opportunity to explore new interests, learn valuable skills, and discover potential career paths. With more than 135 merit badges available, Scouts can choose from a wide range of topics including outdoor adventure, science, trades, business, and more.
Scouts work with knowledgeable merit badge counselors who guide them through each requirement, helping them build confidence and gain hands-on experience along the way. Whether learning a new hobby, developing leadership skills, or exploring a future career, each badge represents growth and achievement.
Earning a merit badge is a flexible and self-paced process. Scouts can choose topics that interest them, set goals, and complete requirements with guidance and support. Along the way, they develop independence, responsibility, and a sense of accomplishment.
From outdoor skills like camping and hiking to STEM, health, and communication, merit badges encourage Scouts to try new things, challenge themselves, and expand their horizons. These experiences play an important role in the Scouting journey and help prepare youth for life.
Each program offers a variety of engaging activities designed to build skills, confidence, teamwork, and a love of adventure. Experiences are tailored to each age group and focus on learning by doing—both outdoors and in the community.
Introduces kindergarten‑age youth to Cub Scouting through grade‑appropriate adventures that build curiosity, teamwork, and early Scouting skills.
For first graders, this level builds on early Cub Scouting experiences with structured activities and adventures that develop confidence and family involvement.
Designed for second graders, this rank features adventures that help Scouts develop new skills and deepen their understanding of Cub Scouting values.
Third graders work on adventures that challenge them with more advanced skills and opportunities to grow personally and socially.
Fourth graders work on required and elective adventures that help prepare them for higher responsibilities and future Scouting experiences.
Fifth graders complete adventures that culminate in the highest Cub Scout award, preparing them to transition into Scouts BSA.
The Scout rank is the first step in Scouts BSA, introducing youth to the basics of Scouting and the core values of the program. It lays the foundation for skill development, teamwork, and leadership.
The Tenderfoot rank builds on Scout skills, introducing basic outdoor abilities, personal fitness, and leadership principles. It marks the start of a Scout’s journey toward more advanced achievements.
The Second Class rank emphasizes proficiency in outdoor skills, first aid, and community involvement. Achieving it shows growing independence and competence in Scouting.
The First Class rank demonstrates mastery of foundational Scouting skills, independence, and leadership. It prepares Scouts for more advanced challenges and sets the stage for higher ranks.
The Star rank focuses on leadership, service, merit badge completion, and personal growth. It’s the first step on the path toward the Eagle Scout rank.
The Life rank emphasizes continued leadership, service, and skill development. Achieving it reflects dedication and prepares Scouts for the final step toward Eagle Scout.
The Eagle Scout rank is the highest honor in Scouting, recognizing exceptional leadership, service, and personal achievement. Scouts must earn merit badges, demonstrate leadership, complete a service project, and pass a board of review.
The first step in Venturing, introducing new members to the program, the crew, and the principles of Venturing. It marks a Scout’s commitment to participate and grow through Venturing experiences.
The Discovery Award recognizes growth in the program and helps Scouts explore their interests, develop new skills, and discover their talents.
The Pathfinder Award emphasizes leadership, community service, and personal growth. Scouts demonstrate leadership by guiding the crew, completing service projects, and gaining hands-on experience.
The Summit Award is the highest recognition in Venturing, requiring significant leadership, service, and personal development. Scouts serve as mentors, lead community projects, and develop skills that prepare them for lifelong success.
The first rank in Sea Scouting. Learn the basics of ship life, safety rules, and boating skills. Get introduced to teamwork, ship structure, and how to take care of equipment. This rank helps you feel comfortable and confident on the water.
Build on your Apprentice skills. Participate in cruises and on-water activities, learn flag etiquette, and improve your boating and navigation skills. Start taking small leadership roles and help out with ship operations.
Take your skills to the next level. Learn advanced seamanship, navigation, and safety procedures. Teach newer Scouts, lead activities, and take on more responsibility during cruises and ship events.
Whether you’re ready to register your Scout or just want more information, we’re here to help! Our team can guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.