Pack 323 Bear Den Leader Playbook — 2026–2027¶

Program Year: September 2026 – May 2027 Pack: Cub Scout Pack 323, Howard County, MD Charter Organization: St. Alphonsus Rodriguez Catholic Church Den: Bears (3rd Grade / 8–9 year olds)

Dear Den Leader¶

Welcome — and thank you for stepping up to lead the Bear den. Third grade is a great age for Scouting: these kids are old enough to take real responsibility, build genuine skills, and lead portions of activities themselves, but they still light up for hands-on experiments, creative projects, and time outdoors. You will have a terrific year with them.

This playbook covers all 18 den meetings for the 2026–2027 school year, from the first Wednesday in September through mid-May. If your Scouts attend most meetings and complete the at-home assignments, every one of them will earn the Bear Badge of Rank well before the end of the program year — with several meetings to spare for catch-up.

You don't need to be an expert. Every meeting plan in this document includes step-by-step activity instructions, a complete materials checklist, a run-of-show table, and a scripted note to parents. Read each plan a few days before the meeting, gather your supplies, and you are ready to go. If a plan isn't working — the activity falls flat, attendance is low, or the den takes the conversation somewhere more interesting — trust your judgment and adapt. The goal is a good experience for the Scouts, not a perfect execution of the script.

Two meetings per month. The Pack calendar holds the 1st and 2nd Wednesdays as Den Meeting nights. Keep to this schedule as consistently as you can. Eight-year-olds are predictable-schedule people.

No mandatory parent-at-meeting requirement for Bears. Unlike Lions and Tigers, Bears do not require a parent or guardian to attend every den meeting. Standard Scouting America two-deep leadership applies: you must always have at least two registered adult leaders present (or one registered adult plus one parent/guardian). Parents are always welcome, but their attendance is not required.

Advancement is tracked in Scoutbook Plus. Log completed requirements at advancements.scouting.org after every meeting while your memory is fresh. Don't let them pile up for April. If a Scout misses a meeting, their requirements from that night are simply not logged — they can complete them during one of the catch-up meetings built into this plan.

The Bobcat adventure must come first. Every other adventure can be done in any order after that. This playbook sequences them to align with the Pack calendar and Maryland's seasons.

A note on the den doodle. The Bear adventure guide suggests building a wooden den doodle with bead cords — one per Scout — for tracking attendance and advancement. The construction takes prep time but pays dividends all year in Scout engagement. Instructions are in the Bobcat adventure file. Build it before Meeting 1 if you want to use it; if not, a simple poster with stickers works fine.

What Bears Need to Earn the Bear Badge of Rank¶

Bears must complete 6 required adventures plus any 2 elective adventures (8 adventures minimum). This plan includes 6 elective adventures — extra buffer in case one meeting is cancelled or a Scout needs more time.

#	Adventure	Type	Meeting in This Plan
1	Bobcat Bear	Required	Meeting 1
2	Let's Camp Bear	Elective ⭐	Meeting 2
3	Bear Habitat	Required	Meeting 3
4	Standing Tall	Required	Meeting 4
5	Paws for Action	Required	Meeting 5
6	Bear Strong	Required	Meeting 6
7	Baloo the Builder — Part 1	Elective ⭐	Meeting 7
8	Race Time Bear — Part 1 (Design)	Elective ⭐	Meeting 8
9	Race Time Bear — Part 2 (Build)	Elective ⭐	Meeting 9
10	Fellowship	Required	Meeting 10
11	Baloo the Builder — Part 2 (Build)	Elective ⭐	Meeting 11
12	Catch-Up / Flex	—	Meeting 12
13	Catch-Up / Flex	—	Meeting 13
14	Super Science	Elective ⭐	Meeting 14
15	Forensics	Elective ⭐	Meeting 15
16	Spring Campout Prep	—	Meeting 16
17	Retrospective + Advancement Review	—	Meeting 17
18	Celebration Meeting	—	Meeting 18

Rank completion target: All 6 required adventures completed by Meeting 10. Elective minimum (2 of 6 planned) complete by Meeting 9. Meetings 11–18 are extra electives, catch-up, and celebration — strong buffer for a smooth finish.

Year at a Glance¶

#	Date	Adventure	Type	Pack Tie-In
1	Wed Sep 2	Bobcat Bear	Required	—
2	Wed Sep 9	Let's Camp Bear	Elective	Fall Family Campout Sep 25–27
3	Wed Oct 7	Bear Habitat	Required	Outdoor season; Rocket Launch Oct 21
4	Wed Oct 14	Standing Tall	Required	—
5	Wed Nov 4	Paws for Action	Required	Leaf Raking Service Nov 8
6	Wed Nov 11	Bear Strong	Required	Gratitude Night Pack Meeting Nov 18
7	Wed Dec 2	Baloo the Builder — Part 1 (Tools)	Elective	Winter building energy
8	Wed Dec 9	Race Time Bear — Part 1 (Design)	Elective	PWD Car Kit Distribution Dec 16
9	Wed Jan 6	Race Time Bear — Part 2 (Build & Paint)	Elective	STEM Carnival Pack Meeting Jan 20
10	Wed Jan 13	Fellowship	Required	✅ All required adventures done!
11	Wed Feb 3	Baloo the Builder — Part 2 (Build Project)	Elective	PWD final prep; Klondike Derby
12	Wed Feb 10	Catch-Up / Flex	—	PWD car finishing; Pinewood Derby Feb 17
13	Wed Mar 3	Catch-Up / Flex	—	Blue & Gold Banquet Mar 17
14	Wed Mar 10	Super Science	Elective	STEM energy; spring weather
15	Wed Apr 7	Forensics	Elective	Spring / detective theme
16	Wed Apr 14	Spring Campout Prep	—	Spring Family Campout Apr 30–May 2
17	Wed May 5	Retrospective + Advancement Review	—	Graduation at June Pack Meeting (Jun 2)
18	Wed May 12	Celebration Meeting	—	Graduation at June Pack Meeting (Jun 2)

Den Meeting Format¶

Every den meeting runs 60 minutes, 6:30–7:30 PM at the Waverly Elementary School cafeteria unless noted otherwise. (Most dens meet at the school; the church or another venue is used on the occasions when the school is unavailable.) The standard flow:

Segment	Duration	Purpose
Pre-Opening / Gathering Activity	5 min	Scouts arriving have something to do immediately; no dead time
Opening Ceremony	5 min	Cub Scout sign, Pledge of Allegiance, Scout Oath or Law
Main Activity	30–35 min	Adventure requirement(s) for the evening
Second Activity or Debrief	10–15 min	Skill reinforcement, game, or group discussion
Closing + At-Home Assignment	5 min	Recap, announcements, what to bring/do before next meeting
Parent Handoff	5 min	Den Leader speaks briefly with parents about at-home requirements

Denner. Starting at Meeting 2, rotate a "denner" — an official helper who arrives early, leads the flag ceremony, hands out supplies, and helps clean up. Each Scout should have at least one turn. Use a popsicle-stick lottery: write names on sticks, draw one at each meeting's closing, and cycle through until everyone has gone.

Meeting 1 — Bobcat Bear (Required)¶

Date: Wednesday, September 2, 2026 Time: 6:30–7:30 PM Location: Waverly Elementary School cafeteria Pack tie-in: None — this is the first meeting of the year

Important: Bobcat is always the first adventure, and it must be completed before any others. The at-home component (Parent's Guide booklet) can be completed at home this week before Meeting 2. Send the booklet home tonight.

Materials Checklist¶

Run of Show¶

Time	Duration	Segment	Lead	Notes
6:30	5 min	Pre-opening: Name-tag draw	Den Leader	Each Scout draws their own name tag with their name + one thing they did this summer
6:35	5 min	Opening ceremony	Den Leader	Introduce Cub Scout sign; Pledge of Allegiance; explain the sign means "stop and listen"
6:40	15 min	Activity 1: Scout Law bean bag game	Den Leader	Scouts take turns tossing bean bags onto numbered grid; name the point of Scout Law
6:55	10 min	Activity 2: Den Code of Conduct	Den Leader	Group discussion; Scouts suggest rules; write final list on poster board
7:05	8 min	Activity 3: Denner introduction + Scout Oath	Den Leader	Explain denner role; draw first denner from popsicle sticks; recite Scout Oath together
7:13	7 min	Closing: "Do Your Best" sharing + at-home assignment	Den Leader	Each Scout shares one time they did their best; hand out Parent's Guide
7:20	10 min	Parent handoff + den doodle (if using)	Den Leader	Explain Parent's Guide requirement; preview the Fall Family Campout; award first beads if using den doodle

Activity 1: Scout Law Bean Bag Game (15 min)¶

Goal: Scouts learn all 12 points of the Scout Law in a moving, competitive format — not a passive recitation.

Setup: Lay the pre-marked poster board (12 squares in a 4×3 grid) on the floor. Place index cards number-side-up on each square.

Instructions: 1. Tell the den: "The Scout Law has 12 points. Each square on this board is one of them — but we've hidden which is which. When it's your turn, toss the bean bag and try to name the point of Scout Law that matches the number you land on. If you get it right, I'll flip the card over to reveal the word. If you need help, your den-mates can help you." 2. Scouts take turns from a throwing line about 6 feet back. 3. If a Scout names the correct point, leave the card flipped. If not, Scouts in the den call out the answer together — no one is embarrassed. 4. Play until all 12 cards are flipped. Then go back to the Scout Law from the beginning as a group: "A Scout is… trustworthy, loyal, helpful…"

Activity 2: Den Code of Conduct (10 min)¶

Goal: Scouts invest in the rules they help create. A code of conduct they wrote themselves works better than one handed to them.

Setup: Hang the large poster board where everyone can see. Have thick markers ready.

Instructions: 1. Ask: "If you were designing the perfect den — the den you'd actually want to come to every week — what rules would make it great?" 2. Write every suggestion on the poster. Prompt as needed: What about respect? What about showing up ready to participate? 3. When the list is complete, read it aloud together. Ask Scouts to vote (show of hands) to narrow to 5–7 final rules. 4. Title the poster "Bear Den Code of Conduct" and have every Scout sign it. Keep it — bring it to every meeting.

Tip: Common Bear-age suggestions include "no put-downs," "help each other," "be on time," and "bring your handbook." Accept their language, not yours.

Activity 3: Denner Introduction + Scout Oath (8 min)¶

Instructions: 1. Explain the denner: "A denner is the den's official helper. You arrive a few minutes early, lead us in the flag ceremony, pass out supplies, and help clean up. Every Scout in our den will get a turn this year." 2. Draw the first popsicle stick. Announce the denner for Meeting 2. Confirm they can arrive 5 minutes early. 3. Recite the Scout Oath together, looking at the back cover of the Bear handbook: "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."

Advancement Connections¶

Requirement	Completed at this meeting	At-home
Get to know members of your den (Bobcat Req. 1)	✅ Name-tag introductions; bean bag game	—
Recite the Scout Oath and Scout Law with your den (Bobcat Req. 2)	✅ Scout Law game + Oath recitation	—
Identify the three points of the Scout Oath (Bobcat Req. 3)	✅ Discussed during Oath recitation	—
Create a den Code of Conduct (Bobcat Req. 4)	✅ Activity 2	—
Learn about the denner position (Bobcat Req. 5)	✅ Activity 3	—
Demonstrate Cub Scout sign, salute, handshake (Bobcat Req. 6)	✅ Opening and relay	—
Share a "Do Your Best" moment (Bobcat Req. 7)	✅ Closing share	—
Complete Parent's Guide booklet (Bobcat Req. 8)	—	✅ This week at home with parent/guardian

At-Home Assignment¶

"Scouts, before our next meeting, you have one thing to do at home. Inside your handbook — or in the envelope I'm handing out — there's a booklet called 'How to Protect Your Children from Child Abuse: A Parent's Guide.' This is a Scouting America requirement for the Bobcat adventure. Sit down with a parent or guardian this week and go through it together. It's a short read and it covers important safety information. Bring your handbook to the next meeting."

Post-Meeting Notes (fill in after)¶

Attendance: ___ Scouts, ___ adults

What worked well:

What to improve:

Follow-up needed:

Meeting 2 — Let's Camp Bear (Elective ⭐)¶

Date: Wednesday, September 9, 2026 Time: 6:30–7:30 PM Location: Waverly Elementary School cafeteria (tent setup outside if weather allows) Pack tie-in: Fall Family Campout

Check before this meeting: The Denner drawn at Meeting 1 should arrive at 6:25. Confirm they know what they'll be doing (carry the flag in, lead the Pledge of Allegiance).

Parent's Guide check-in: At the top of the meeting, do a quick show of hands — who completed the booklet with a parent this week? For Scouts who didn't, remind them to do it before next meeting. Bobcat is not complete until that requirement is done.

Materials Checklist¶

Tents (2 — from den leader storage or ask a family to bring theirs)
Cub Scout Six Essentials display: water bottle, whistle, flashlight, sunscreen/hat, trail snack, small first-aid kit
Printed Six Essentials word search (1 per Scout — download from Scouting America: Bear Let's Camp 2 Cub Scout Six Essentials Word Search)
Pencils (1 per Scout)
Bear handbooks (remind Scouts to bring)
Printed Camping Checklist (1 per Scout — from Scouting America: Bear Let's Camp 3 Camping Checklist)
Music-playing device (for Musical Gear game, optional)
Assorted camping and non-camping items for Musical Gear (sleeping bag, pillow, cooking gear, Nintendo Switch, etc. — see adventure file)

Run of Show¶

Time	Duration	Segment	Lead	Notes
6:30	5 min	Pre-opening: Six Essentials puzzle	Den Leader	Scouts work on word search as they arrive
6:35	5 min	Opening ceremony	Denner	Denner leads flag ceremony; Pledge of Allegiance; Cub Scout sign
6:40	15 min	Activity 1: Buddy System game	Den Leader	Back-to-back seated stand-up; discussion on buddy system outdoors
6:55	15 min	Activity 2: Musical Gear	Den Leader	Musical chairs variant using camping vs. non-camping gear
7:10	8 min	Activity 3: Tent Setup Race	Den Leader	Divide into two teams; race to pitch a tent
7:18	7 min	Closing + campout preview	Den Leader	Review camping checklist; preview the Fall Family Campout; at-home assignment
7:25	5 min	Parent handoff	Den Leader	Hand out camping checklist; gear reminder for campout

Activity 1: Buddy System Game (15 min)¶

Goal: Scouts practice and understand the buddy system — which they will use at the Fall Campout.

Instructions: 1. Review the Buddy System section in the Bear handbook. 2. Pair Scouts by counting off (1-2). Any group of 3 is fine. 3. Have each buddy pair sit on the floor, backs touching, arms interlocked. 4. On "Go," pairs try to stand up without unlocking or using their arms. 5. After a few rounds: "Why did it get easier? How does having a buddy help you on a trail? What do you do if your buddy has to leave the group?" 6. During the meeting at 2–3 random points, call "Buddy Check!" — buddies find each other, hold hands, and raise them. Discuss why this matters on a campout.

Activity 2: Musical Gear (15 min)¶

Goal: Scouts identify what to pack for a campout beyond the Six Essentials.

Setup: Arrange camping and non-camping items around the room (sleeping bag, pillow, tent, cooking gear, a game console, laundry basket, etc.). Have music ready to play and pause.

Instructions: 1. Pair Scouts as buddies. Explain: "When the music plays, walk around with your buddy. When the music stops, find an item you'd need on a campout and stand next to it together. If you pick a non-camping item, or split up from your buddy, you sit out." 2. After each round, confirm whether the chosen item is a Six Essential, a camping item, or neither. 3. Play 5–6 rounds. Last pair standing wins.

Activity 3: Tent Setup Race (8 min)¶

Instructions: 1. Divide the den into two equal groups. Give each a tent. 2. "Race to see who can set up their tent first. Work together — communicate!" 3. After both tents are up: "Where should we put a tent on a campsite? What makes a good spot?" (Flat ground, away from standing water, not under dead branches.) 4. Have Scouts collapse and bag the tents properly.

Advancement Connections¶

Requirement	Completed at this meeting	At-home
Review the buddy system (Let's Camp Req. 1)	✅ Buddy System game and discussion	—
Show Cub Scout Six Essentials (Let's Camp Req. 2)	✅ Word search and display review	—
Show personal items needed for campout (Let's Camp Req. 3)	✅ Musical Gear + camping checklist review	—
Help set up a tent; identify a good spot (Let's Camp Req. 4)	✅ Tent Setup Race	—
Attend a pack or council campout (Let's Camp Req. 5)	—	✅ Fall Family Campout

At-Home Assignment¶

"Here's your camping checklist for the Fall Family Campout. Go over it tonight with your family. You'll need a sleeping bag, a tent if you have one, your Six Essentials, and a few personal items. Wear layers — September nights in Maryland can be cool. We'll be doing a campfire program, hiking, and station activities. If you have any questions about what to bring, contact me the week before."

Post-Meeting Notes (fill in after)¶

Attendance: ___ Scouts, ___ adults

What worked well:

What to improve:

Follow-up needed:

Meeting 3 — Bear Habitat (Required)¶

Date: Wednesday, October 7, 2026 Time: 6:30–7:30 PM Location: Waverly Elementary School cafeteria + 1-mile outdoor walk (same night or pre-planned at a local park) Pack tie-in: Outdoor season; connection to the Rocket Launch Pack Meeting

Important: Bear Habitat's centerpiece is a 1-mile outdoor walk. You have two options: (a) plan the walk at this meeting and do it as a separate den outing before Meeting 4, or (b) hold this meeting at a park trail and complete the walk the same evening. Option (b) requires distributing an Activity Consent Form in advance. Either approach works — just decide before this meeting and notify families.

Safety note: Before this adventure, review each Scout's Scouting America Annual Health and Medical Record for any conditions affecting physical activity. Complete the "Hazardous Weather" online training module at my.scouting.org if you haven't already.

Materials Checklist¶

Printed "Paths for Everyone" worksheet (1 per Scout — from Scouting America)
Printed Trash Timeline Cards, Trash Timeline, and Trash Timeline Key (2 sets — from Scouting America)
Maps of the walk route (printed or on a device — Google Maps works fine)
Activity Consent Form (if walk is same evening or off-site — 1 per family)
Cub Scout Six Essentials (display set for discussion)
Den first aid kit (including ace bandage and moleskin)
Camera or phone (for "Leave What You Find" photos during walk)
Bear handbooks

Run of Show¶

Time	Duration	Segment	Lead	Notes
6:30	5 min	Pre-opening: Wildlife spotting cards	Den Leader	Scouts draw or name 3 animals they might see on a trail
6:35	5 min	Opening ceremony	Denner	Flag ceremony, Pledge, Scout Law
6:40	15 min	Activity 1: Trash Timeline game	Den Leader	Teams race to place items in correct decomposition order
6:55	15 min	Activity 2: Map the walk + Know Before You Go	Den Leader	Use printed map or device; Scouts identify route, starting point, and landmarks
7:10	8 min	Activity 3: Fire danger rating matching game	Den Leader	Introduce fire danger card game; discuss Be Careful with Fire
7:18	7 min	Closing: Walk logistics + at-home assignment	Den Leader	Confirm walk date/location; Six Essentials reminder; consent form
7:25	5 min	Parent handoff	Den Leader	Walk details, consent forms if needed, gear reminder

Activity 1: Trash Timeline Game (15 min)¶

Goal: Scouts understand Leave No Trace ("Trash Your Trash") through a competitive game.

Setup: Print two sets of Trash Timeline Cards. Divide the room into two halves with a base timeline at each end.

Instructions: 1. Divide the den into two teams. Give each team a shuffled set of Trash Timeline cards. 2. "You have five minutes to place each card at the correct decomposition time on the timeline. The team with the most correct cards wins." 3. After five minutes, reveal the correct order using the key. Check answers together. 4. Ask: "Were you surprised? What's the fastest thing to decompose? The slowest? What will you do differently on a trail?"

Activity 2: Map the Walk + Know Before You Go (15 min)¶

Instructions: 1. Show Scouts a digital or printed map of the planned 1-mile walk route. 2. Ask each Scout to find: the starting point, a midpoint landmark, a bathroom if there is one, and the endpoint. 3. Distribute the "Paths for Everyone" worksheet. Ask: "Which type of path is this? Is it accessible for everyone in our den? What hazards might we encounter?" 4. Discuss appropriate footwear and clothing for the current weather.

Activity 3: Fire Danger Rating Game (8 min)¶

Instructions: 1. Lay out the five fire danger cards (Low, Moderate, High, Very High, Extremely High). 2. Scouts take turns drawing a card from the deck and placing it in the correct pile. 3. Discuss: "At which level would we not be able to do our walk safely? How do we check the fire danger rating before a trip?"

Advancement Connections¶

Requirement	Completed at this meeting	At-home
Gather Six Essentials and weather-appropriate gear (Req. 1)	✅ Discussed; Scouts check their own packs	—
Identify walk location on map; confirm 1-mile route (Req. 2)	✅ Activity 2	—
Learn about the path and surrounding area (Req. 3)	✅ Paths for Everyone worksheet	—
Make a plan for personal trash (Req. 4)	✅ Trash Timeline game	—
Take pictures/sketch 5 things on the walk (Req. 5)	—	✅ During walk
Determine fire danger rating (Req. 6)	✅ Activity 3	—
Identify 6 signs of mammals, birds, insects, or reptiles (Req. 7)	—	✅ During walk
Identify how to be kind to other visitors (Req. 8)	✅ Brief discussion at closing	—
Go on the 1-mile walk (Req. 9)	—	✅ Walk — this meeting or separate outing

At-Home Assignment¶

"Our Bear Habitat walk is [DATE/LOCATION]. Please wear closed-toe shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, and bring your Six Essentials. During the walk, you'll take photos or sketches of five things you want to remember — bring a phone or sketchbook. We'll also be looking for six signs of animals: tracks, sounds, nests, scat, burrows, or the animals themselves. I'll have consent forms for you to sign at the start of the walk."

Post-Meeting Notes (fill in after)¶

Attendance: ___ Scouts, ___ adults

What worked well:

What to improve:

Follow-up needed:

Meeting 4 — Standing Tall (Required)¶

Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2026 Time: 6:30–7:30 PM Location: Waverly Elementary School cafeteria Pack tie-in: None — personal safety theme; debrief on the Rocket Launch Pack Meeting coming up

Critical parent notification: The Standing Tall adventure includes watching the "Protect Yourself Rules" video for the Bear rank (13 minutes, available at vimeo.com/325064786). This video covers personal space, body safety, and online safety. Scouting America requires that a parent or legal guardian watch this video with their Scout — not the den leader alone. You must notify families before this meeting. Send the "Standing Tall 1 Parent Notification" (download from Scouting America) home at Meeting 3 or via Scoutbook messaging.

Two approaches work: (1) Have parents attend this meeting and watch the video together as a group, or (2) send the video home as an at-home assignment for families to complete before this meeting, and complete Req. 2–4 at the meeting.

Materials Checklist¶

Laptop/tablet + projector or large screen for video (if watching as a group)
"Protect Yourself Rules Bear" video: vimeo.com/325064786 (13 minutes)
Standing Tall 1 Parent Notification (printed or sent via Scoutbook ahead of time)
Printed Personal Space Bubble worksheets (1 per Scout — from Scouting America)
Printed Digital Safety Pledge (1 per family — from Scouting America)
Pencils
Kitchen safety worksheet (if doing the safety gear activity, see adventure file)
Safety goggles (for Mentos/Diet Coke demo if doing the science experiment option)
Mentos and Diet Coke (if doing experiment — best done outside)

Run of Show¶

Time	Duration	Segment	Lead	Notes
6:30	5 min	Pre-opening: Safety gear sorting	Den Leader	Scouts sort a pile of items: "protective gear" vs. "not protective gear"
6:35	5 min	Opening ceremony	Denner	Flag, Pledge, Oath
6:40	13 min	Activity 1: Protect Yourself Rules video	All	Watch together if parents attended; or confirm at-home viewing
6:53	10 min	Activity 2: Personal Space Bubble worksheet	Den Leader	Scouts fill in their own bubble with names of people at each distance
7:03	12 min	Activity 3: Digital Safety Pledge	Den Leader + parents	Families discuss and sign the pledge together
7:15	5 min	Safety gear identification (Req. 4 intro)	Den Leader	Name gear for head, eyes, mouth, hands, feet; discuss one activity's gear in detail
7:20	5 min	Closing + at-home assignment	Den Leader
7:25	5 min	Parent handoff	Den Leader

Activity 2: Personal Space Bubble Worksheet (10 min)¶

Goal: Scouts understand their own personal space and who belongs in each zone — a concrete, non-threatening way to talk about body safety.

Instructions: 1. Distribute the worksheet. Read each ring aloud: intimate space (just for us and close family), personal space (friends and family), social space (acquaintances and groups), public space (strangers). 2. Ask Scouts to write names in each ring: "Who are you totally comfortable being very close to? Who do you prefer to keep at arm's length? This is about YOUR comfort, and everyone's answers are different." 3. Discuss: "Why is it important to know these zones? What do you do if someone comes into your intimate or personal space and you don't want them to?"

Activity 3: Digital Safety Pledge (12 min)¶

Instructions: 1. Ask parents to sit next to their Scout if present, or pair Scouts to read together. 2. Have Scouts read each item on the pledge aloud, one at a time. 3. After each item, ask: "Why do you think this rule is important? Does your family already have a rule like this?" 4. Families sign the pledge. Scouts take it home and hang it where they'll see it (refrigerator works well).

Advancement Connections¶

Requirement	Completed at this meeting	At-home
Watch Protect Yourself Rules video with parent (Req. 1)	✅ Group viewing OR	✅ Sent home as at-home assignment
Complete Personal Space Bubble worksheet (Req. 2)	✅ Activity 2	—
Set up family digital device policy (Req. 3)	✅ Digital Safety Pledge	—
Identify safety gear for head, eyes, mouth, hands, feet (Req. 4)	✅ Brief identification + discussion	—

At-Home Assignment¶

"The digital safety pledge you signed tonight — post it somewhere your family will see it. If you didn't get to watch the Protect Yourself Rules video with a parent tonight, do that this week at vimeo.com/325064786. It's 13 minutes and your parent needs to watch it with you. That's a Scouting America requirement. Let me know by our next meeting if you need help accessing it."

Post-Meeting Notes (fill in after)¶

Attendance: ___ Scouts, ___ adults

What worked well:

What to improve:

Follow-up needed:

Meeting 5 — Paws for Action (Required)¶

Date: Wednesday, November 4, 2026 Time: 6:30–7:30 PM Location: Waverly Elementary School cafeteria (flag ceremony outside if weather permits) Pack tie-in: Leaf Raking Service Project at St. Alphonsus Rodriguez

Note: The Leaf Raking event (a Saturday) will satisfy Paws for Action Requirement 4 (participate in a service project). Tell families at this meeting exactly what to expect on Saturday: work clothes, gloves, closed-toe shoes, approximately 2 hours. The service project requirement is NOT complete until the Leaf Raking event.

Materials Checklist¶

US flags (1 for every 3 Scouts — for folding practice)
Flagpole with working halyard (for raising and lowering demo)
Printed Citizenship Flag Trivia game sheets (1 per Scout — from Scouting America)
Citizenship Flag Trivia key (for leader reference)
Bear handbooks
Play-Doh (assorted colors, at least 4 oz per Scout) OR watercolor paint sets + paper for US symbols craft
Pencils

Run of Show¶

Time	Duration	Segment	Lead	Notes
6:30	5 min	Pre-opening: US symbols quiz	Den Leader	Scouts list as many US symbols as they can on a blank card
6:35	5 min	Opening ceremony	Denner	Full flag ceremony — Denner carries the flag
6:40	15 min	Activity 1: Flag Trivia game + flag folding	Den Leader	Teams answer flag trivia; then practice folding US flag in groups of 3
6:55	10 min	Activity 2: Raise and lower the flag	Den Leader	Demonstrate at flagpole; Scouts each take a turn at the halyard
7:05	12 min	Activity 3: Create a US symbol	Den Leader	Play-Doh sculpture OR watercolor painting of their chosen symbol
7:17	5 min	Closing: Nonprofit discussion + Leaf Raking preview	Den Leader	Brief: what is a nonprofit? Why does St. Alphonsus Rodriguez help our community?
7:22	3 min	At-home assignment	Den Leader
7:25	5 min	Parent handoff	Den Leader	Leaf Raking logistics: work clothes, gloves, 2 hours

Activity 1: Flag Trivia + Flag Folding (15 min)¶

Instructions: 1. Divide into pairs or groups of 3. Hand out Flag Trivia sheet and handbooks. 2. Groups use their handbooks to answer trivia questions; go over answers together. 3. Demo flag folding (practice yourself beforehand — there's a how-to video on Scout Life). Give each group a flag. Walk through the fold step by step: "First, fold lengthwise in half, blue stripe on top. Then fold in half again. Now we triangulate: fold the striped corner to the open edge, keep going until only the blue field shows." 4. Have each group practice until they can fold the flag cleanly.

Activity 2: Raise and Lower the Flag (10 min)¶

Instructions: 1. Take the den to the flagpole. 2. Demonstrate raising the flag quickly (hand-over-hand on the halyard) and lowering it slowly. Scouts salute while the flag is raised or lowered. 3. Have each Scout take a turn at the rope, supervised.

Activity 3: Create a US Symbol (12 min)¶

Instructions: 1. Brainstorm US symbols together: Bald eagle, Liberty Bell, Statue of Liberty, US flag, White House, Uncle Sam. 2. Each Scout picks one and creates it with Play-Doh or paints a watercolor version. 3. Quick share-out: each Scout holds up their symbol and says which one it is and why they chose it.

Advancement Connections¶

Requirement	Completed at this meeting	At-home
Learn flag history, folding, raising/lowering, etiquette (Req. 1)	✅ Activities 1 & 2	—
Identify 3 US symbols; make a model/craft of favorite (Req. 2)	✅ Activity 3	—
Learn about a nonprofit's mission and how volunteers help (Req. 3)	✅ Closing discussion (St. Alphonsus Rodriguez)	—
Participate in a service project (Req. 4)	—	✅ Leaf Raking

At-Home Assignment¶

"This Saturday is our Leaf Raking service project at St. Alphonsus Rodriguez Catholic Church — the same church that charters our Pack. We'll meet at [TIME, confirm with Pack committee]. Wear work clothes, bring gloves, and wear closed-toe shoes. Plan on about two hours. This is an official Scouting activity and it completes the last requirement for Paws for Action. Don't miss it!"

Post-Meeting Notes (fill in after)¶

Attendance: ___ Scouts, ___ adults

What worked well:

What to improve:

Follow-up needed:

Meeting 6 — Bear Strong (Required)¶

Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2026 Time: 6:30–7:30 PM Location: Waverly Elementary School cafeteria (outdoor active segment if weather permits) Pack tie-in: Gratitude Night Pack Meeting (Active + Learning theme)

Note: This meeting falls on Veterans Day. Some families may be at local events — confirm school schedule for your Scouts ahead of time. If attendance is expected to be low, consider contacting families individually this week. There is also a Veterans Day parade that may conflict — see annual plan notes. If several Scouts plan to attend the parade, you can treat that as an alternate for this meeting's service/community theme.

Food allergy check: Bear Strong involves a food-tasting activity. Review each Scout's health record for allergies before purchasing food. Ask parents to confirm any restrictions via Scoutbook message before this meeting.

Materials Checklist¶

Apple delight ingredients: apples (cored), bananas (sliced), yogurt, honey, granola, strawberries — adjust for den size and allergies
Plates, napkins
Apple corer or pre-sliced apples
Energizing Workout worksheet (1 per Scout — from Scouting America; or improvise with a blank worksheet)
Printed Yoga Salutation Poses worksheet (from Scouting America) OR a simple yoga/stretching routine you know
Water bottles (remind Scouts to bring; have extras)
Scouting America Annual Health and Medical Record forms (blank copies for anyone who hasn't submitted one)
First aid kit

Run of Show¶

Time	Duration	Segment	Lead	Notes
6:30	5 min	Pre-opening: Food group sorting	Den Leader	Cards on a table: Scouts sort food images into 5 food groups
6:35	5 min	Opening ceremony	Denner	Flag, Pledge, Law
6:40	15 min	Activity 1: Apple delights snack + food groups discussion	Den Leader	Make and eat the snack; discuss protein/fruit/dairy/grain as they go
6:55	15 min	Activity 2: Energizing workout	Den Leader	Scouts design and lead their own 15-min workout circuit
7:10	8 min	Activity 3: Yoga/relaxation cool-down	Den Leader	Guided stretches; discuss rest and relaxation as part of health
7:18	5 min	Annual health record review	Den Leader	Parents and Scouts review medical record together if parents present; collect forms
7:23	2 min	At-home assignment	Den Leader
7:25	5 min	Parent handoff	Den Leader	Collect medical forms; preview the Gratitude Night Pack Meeting

Activity 1: Apple Delights (15 min)¶

Instructions: 1. Wash hands. Set out pre-cored apples and toppings. 2. Before Scouts build their treats, identify each food group as you point to it: "Yogurt — what group? Dairy! Apples and strawberries? Fruit! Granola? Grain! Peanut butter or Nutella? Protein!" 3. Scouts assemble their apple delights and eat while the discussion continues.

Activity 2: Energizing Workout (15 min)¶

Instructions: 1. Give each Scout the Energizing Workout worksheet (or a blank paper). 2. Ask Scouts to brainstorm one cardio exercise (jogging in place, jumping jacks), one strength exercise (push-ups, sit-ups), and one flexibility exercise (toe touches, arm circles) and draw/write them in the boxes. 3. Scouts vote on a sequence. Then everyone does the circuit: 30 seconds of cardio, 30 seconds of strength, 30 seconds of flexibility. Repeat twice. 4. After the workout, ask each Scout to rate how hard it felt on a scale of 1–10.

Advancement Connections¶

Requirement	Completed at this meeting	At-home
Sample food from 3 of the 5 food groups (Req. 1)	✅ Apple delights activity	—
Be active for 30 min with den (Req. 2)	✅ Workout + yoga total ~23 min; supplement with outdoor active segment if time	—
Be active for 15 min doing personal exercises — cardio, strength, flexibility (Req. 3)	✅ Energizing workout	—
Do a relaxing activity for 10 min (Req. 4)	✅ Yoga/stretch cool-down	—
Review Scouting America Annual Health and Medical Record with parent (Req. 5)	✅ End of meeting (parents present) or	✅ At home this week

At-Home Assignment¶

"If you haven't reviewed your Scouting America Annual Health and Medical Record with a parent yet, do that this week and bring the form to our next meeting. Also — try to stay active every day this week. It doesn't have to be structured. A bike ride, a walk, a game of tag all count. Come ready to tell us one active thing you did."

Post-Meeting Notes (fill in after)¶

Attendance: ___ Scouts, ___ adults

What worked well:

What to improve:

Follow-up needed:

Meeting 7 — Baloo the Builder, Part 1: Tools & Project Planning (Elective ⭐)¶

Date: Wednesday, December 2, 2026 Time: 6:30–7:30 PM Location: Waverly Elementary School cafeteria Pack tie-in: Winter building energy; sets up Meeting 11 build session

Note: Baloo the Builder is split across two meetings — this meeting covers tool identification, safety, and project selection; Meeting 11 covers the actual build. You'll need to decide by the end of this meeting what the den will build (tic-tac-toe board is a reliable choice for 8-year-olds; tool caddy is also good). Purchase or gather materials before Meeting 11.

Materials Checklist¶

Safety glasses (1 per Scout)
Tools for display: hammer, flathead screwdriver, Phillips screwdriver, hand saw (do not pass around), coping saw (do not pass around), brace and bit, vice or clamp, measuring tape, sandpaper (various grits)
Small piece of scrap wood (for sandpaper demo)
First aid kit
Practice nails, screws, and wood pieces for hands-on practice (see adventure file: 1×4 pine boards, 2×4 pine boards)
Printed Tool and Supply List worksheet (1 per Scout — from Scouting America: Bear Baloo the Builder 4)
Bear handbooks
Voting ballots (half-sheets of paper)

Run of Show¶

Time	Duration	Segment	Lead	Notes
6:30	5 min	Pre-opening: Tool name game	Den Leader	Tool pictures face-down; Scouts flip and name the tool
6:35	5 min	Opening ceremony	Denner	Flag, Pledge, Law
6:40	20 min	Activity 1: Tool identification and safety	Den Leader	Go through each tool; Scouts handle safe items; discuss safety for saw types
7:00	10 min	Activity 2: Tool practice	Den Leader	Scouts hammer nails, drive screws, use sandpaper on scrap wood (adult assistance per Scout)
7:10	8 min	Activity 3: Project selection vote	Den Leader	Scouts vote for their build project; fill out tool/supply list for the chosen project
7:18	7 min	Closing + at-home assignment	Den Leader	Preview PWD Car Design meeting next week
7:25	5 min	Parent handoff	Den Leader	Ask if any parent has a workshop or tools for the Meeting 11 build day

Activity 1: Tool Identification and Safety (20 min)¶

Instructions: 1. Present each tool (follow the adventure file instructions for what to pass around vs. not). Key points for Bears: - Safety glasses are not optional — always worn when working with tools. - Hand saw and coping saw — always held by an adult; Scouts may use under direct supervision with adult's hand guiding. - "Measure twice, cut once." Burn this in. 2. Pass safe tools around the circle. Scouts take turns using the sandpaper on a scrap piece of wood.

Activity 2: Tool Practice (10 min)¶

Instructions: 1. Set up a station for each tool practice: hammer and nails into a 2×4, screwdriver and pre-drilled pilot holes in a 1×4. 2. Scouts rotate through stations with 1 adult supervising each (recruit a parent helper for this meeting). 3. Instruction: "When hammering: hold the nail with two fingers at first, give it a few gentle taps to start, then move your fingers away and drive it in. Keep your elbow in line with the nail."

Activity 3: Project Selection Vote (8 min)¶

Instructions: 1. Present the project options: tic-tac-toe board, tool caddy, bat house, or a project of the den's choosing. 2. Scouts rank their top two choices on a ballot. Tally votes — majority wins. 3. Distribute the Tool and Supply List worksheet. As a group, list the tools and materials needed for the chosen project. This becomes your shopping list for Meeting 11.

Advancement Connections¶

Requirement	Completed at this meeting	At-home
Learn basic tools and proper/safe use (Req. 1)	✅ Activity 1	—
Practice using four tools (Req. 2)	✅ Activity 2	—
Choose a project to build (Req. 3)	✅ Activity 3 vote	—
Determine tools and materials needed (Req. 4)	✅ Tool and Supply List worksheet	—
Build two projects (Req. 5)	—	✅ Meeting 11 (one project) + PWD car (counts as a second project if using Race Time Bear)

At-Home Assignment¶

"No homework tonight — just think about what design you want for your project. If we voted for the tic-tac-toe board, start thinking about how you'd decorate yours. Next meeting we're doing Pinewood Derby car design — bring your handbook and your best car ideas."

Post-Meeting Notes (fill in after)¶

Attendance: ___ Scouts, ___ adults

What worked well:

What to improve:

Follow-up needed:

Meeting 8 — Race Time Bear, Part 1: Design & Rules (Elective ⭐)¶

Date: Wednesday, December 9, 2026 Time: 6:30–7:30 PM Location: Waverly Elementary School cafeteria Pack tie-in: PWD Car Kit Distribution Pack Meeting

Note: Car kits are distributed at the PWD kit-distribution Pack Meeting. Tonight Scouts design their cars and learn the rules so they're ready to start building the moment the kit is in their hands. Emphasize: adults-only for power tools; Scouts can cut with a hand saw under adult supervision.

Materials Checklist¶

Paper (8.5×11, 1 per Scout) for car profile sketches
Pencils and colored pencils
Printed Pinewood Derby Rules Crossword (1 per Scout — from Scouting America)
Printed Car Tune-Up Report (1 per Scout — from Scouting America)
Bear handbooks
Sample Pinewood Derby car (if you or a family has one) for reference
Ruler (1 per Scout)

Run of Show¶

Time	Duration	Segment	Lead	Notes
6:30	5 min	Pre-opening: Design inspiration	Den Leader	Scouts sketch any car shape they find cool on a blank card — no wrong answers
6:35	5 min	Opening ceremony	Denner	Flag, Pledge, Law
6:40	15 min	Activity 1: PWD Rules crossword	Den Leader	Pairs work together; go over answers; discuss why each rule exists
6:55	15 min	Activity 2: Car design sketch	Den Leader	Scouts draw profile of their car design on paper; leader models the technique
7:10	8 min	Activity 3: Car Tune-Up Report	Den Leader	What makes a fast car? Scouts write 3 improvements to plan for
7:18	7 min	Closing: Pack meeting preview + at-home assignment	Den Leader	Remind about the PWD kit-distribution Pack Meeting; cars stay in box until the build meeting (Meeting 9)
7:25	5 min	Parent handoff	Den Leader	Remind parents: power tools by adults only; PWD kit pickup; build night is Meeting 9

Activity 2: Car Design Sketch (15 min)¶

Instructions: 1. Give each Scout a blank sheet of paper. Show them how to trace the block profile from the handbook (or from a sample car). 2. "Draw the side view of your car — the shape you want to cut. Then color in how you want it painted." 3. Circulate and give feedback: "Will that shape be easy to cut? What color scheme are you thinking?" 4. Scouts write their name on the design and keep it. They'll use it at the build meeting (Meeting 9).

Advancement Connections¶

Requirement	Completed at this meeting	At-home
Build a Pinewood Derby car with an adult (Req. 1)	—	✅ Kit distributed at the PWD Pack Meeting; build at Meeting 9
Learn the rules of the race (Req. 2)	✅ Rules crossword	—
Identify 3 ways to increase speed (Req. 3)	✅ Car Tune-Up Report	—
Before the race, discuss good sportsmanship with den (Req. 4)	—	✅ Meeting 12 or at the Pinewood Derby race check-in
Race at Pack Pinewood Derby (Req. 5)	—	✅ Pinewood Derby Pack Meeting

At-Home Assignment¶

"At the kit-distribution Pack Meeting, you'll receive your Pinewood Derby car kit — a block of wood, four wheels, and four axles. Do not open it and start cutting until our build meeting (Meeting 9), when we'll have proper tools, safety equipment, and adult help. You CAN look at your design sketch and think about any changes. Bring the kit and your design to the build meeting."

Post-Meeting Notes (fill in after)¶

Attendance: ___ Scouts, ___ adults

What worked well:

What to improve:

Follow-up needed:

Meeting 9 — Race Time Bear, Part 2: Build & Paint (Elective ⭐)¶

Date: Wednesday, January 6, 2027 Time: 6:30–7:30 PM (plan for up to 90 minutes if parents can stay; building takes time) Location: Waverly Elementary School cafeteria or a family's garage/workshop if available Pack tie-in: STEM Carnival Pack Meeting

Important: This is a build meeting. You need at least two adults with tools who know what they're doing — recruit parent helpers before this meeting. Each Scout needs an adult working one-on-one or in small groups with them. Cutting is done by adults (power tools) or supervised adults (hand saw). Power tools must be used by adults only.

Strongly consider extending this meeting to 90 minutes and communicating that to parents in advance. Building, sanding, and painting all need time.

Materials Checklist¶

Run of Show¶

Time	Duration	Segment	Lead	Notes
6:30	5 min	Pre-opening: Gear up	Den Leader	Scouts put on safety goggles; adults at their stations
6:35	5 min	Opening ceremony	Denner	Brief — this meeting is mostly hands-on
6:40	30 min	Activity 1: Cut and sand	Adults + Scouts	Adult cuts shape to Scout's design; Scout sands edges smooth
7:10	15 min	Activity 2: Paint	Scouts	First coat of paint; Scouts apply their colors and designs
7:25	5 min	Activity 3: Sportsmanship discussion	Den Leader	Brief circle discussion — what does good sportsmanship look like at the race?
7:30	—	Cars go home to dry		Paint needs to dry before wheels and weights; second coat at home

Activity Instructions¶

Cutting (adult-led, 1 adult per Scout or per 2 Scouts): 1. Scout shows adult their design sketch. 2. Adult traces the profile on the block of wood using the sketch. 3. Adult cuts the shape using the band saw or scroll saw. 4. Scout sands all edges with 120-grit, then 220-grit sandpaper.

Painting: 1. First coat only tonight — base color. 2. Scouts apply paint with their small brushes. 3. Cars go home to dry. Second coat and detail painting happen at home. 4. At the next Pack meeting (STEM Carnival) or the Meeting 12 catch-up, Scouts can weigh and finalize their cars.

Sportsmanship discussion (5 min): Ask each Scout: "Name one thing a good sport does at a race — whether they win or lose." Cover: encourage others, follow the rules, congratulate the winner, do your best.

Advancement Connections¶

Requirement	Completed at this meeting	At-home
Build a Pinewood Derby car with an adult (Req. 1)	✅ Cut and sand	✅ Finish painting and assembly at home
Learn the rules (Req. 2)	✅ Meeting 8	—
Identify 3 ways to increase speed (Req. 3)	✅ Meeting 8	—
Discuss good sportsmanship (Req. 4)	✅ Closing circle	—
Race at Pack Pinewood Derby (Req. 5)	—	✅ at the Pinewood Derby

At-Home Assignment¶

"Your car goes home tonight to finish drying. Once the first coat is fully dry (24 hours), lightly sand it and apply a second coat. When it's done, attach the wheels using the small nails — line them up square so the car goes straight. Add any weight until your car is at 5 ounces on your kitchen scale. Check the bottom of your car — wheels should spin freely. Bring your completed car to the Pinewood Derby Pack Meeting for the race. If you have trouble at home, contact me and we can troubleshoot."

Post-Meeting Notes (fill in after)¶

Attendance: ___ Scouts, ___ adults

What worked well:

What to improve:

Follow-up needed:

Meeting 10 — Fellowship (Required)¶

Date: Wednesday, January 13, 2027 Time: 6:30–7:30 PM Location: Waverly Elementary School cafeteria Pack tie-in: Post-holiday reflection; quieter meeting after busy winter

Achievement milestone: If Fellowship is completed tonight, your Bears have finished all 6 required adventures plus 3 elective adventures (Let's Camp, Race Time Parts 1 & 2). Every Scout who attended most meetings has earned enough to receive the Bear Badge of Rank. Log everything in Scoutbook Plus tonight.

Fellowship note: This adventure is largely completed at home with families (religious service, faith traditions craft, act of kindness). The den meeting focuses on what CAN be done together: the common-faith elements discussion and the thank-you card activity. The at-home requirements are sent home as assignments.

Materials Checklist¶

Air-drying clay (1 lb per Scout) OR Thanksgiving pretzel turkey treat supplies (see adventure file)
Card stock (1 per Scout for thank-you cards)
Markers, colored pencils, stickers
Pens or pencils
Printed Common Faith Elements worksheet (1 per Scout — from Scouting America Fellowship file)
Bear handbooks

Run of Show¶

Time	Duration	Segment	Lead	Notes
6:30	5 min	Pre-opening: Faith traditions guessing game	Den Leader	Cards with holiday names; Scouts match to a faith tradition
6:35	5 min	Opening ceremony	Denner	Flag, Pledge, Law; acknowledge achievement milestone
6:40	15 min	Activity 1: Faith traditions craft	Den Leader	Clay sculpture OR pretzel turkey treat (choose ahead of time); discuss family traditions while working
6:55	15 min	Activity 2: Common faiths discussion	Den Leader	Use Common Faith Elements worksheet; find two things any faith has in common with their own
7:10	8 min	Activity 3: Thank-you card to a teacher	Den Leader	Write a sincere thank-you note to a teacher; Scouts take home to deliver
7:18	7 min	Closing: Achievement celebration + at-home assignments	Den Leader	Acknowledge all 6 required adventures complete; preview upcoming meetings
7:25	5 min	Parent handoff	Den Leader	Explain remaining at-home items; acknowledge milestone to parents

Activity 1: Faith Traditions Craft (15 min)¶

Option A — Clay sculpture: Each Scout creates something representing their family's favorite faith tradition or celebration. While working, ask: "What's a holiday your family celebrates? What do you do on that day? What food do you eat?"

Option B — Pretzel turkey treats: Follow instructions in the Fellowship adventure file. Discuss Thanksgiving's roots in religious freedom while making the treats.

Activity 2: Common Faiths Discussion (15 min)¶

Instructions: 1. Distribute the Common Faith Elements worksheet. 2. Ask Scouts to identify their family's faith tradition (no pressure to share specifics). 3. Walk through other faith traditions listed. Point out commonalities: "Almost every faith tradition has a version of the Golden Rule — treat others the way you want to be treated. Can you think of how that shows up in Christianity? Judaism? Islam? Buddhism?" 4. Ask each Scout to name two things they discovered that a different faith has in common with their own.

Advancement Connections¶

Requirement	Completed at this meeting	At-home
Talk about family faith traditions; identify 3 holidays; make a craft (Req. 1)	✅ Craft activity + discussion	—
Attend a religious service or reverence gathering (Req. 2)	—	✅ With family (any time this month)
Carry out an act of kindness (Req. 3)	✅ Thank-you card to teacher	—
Identify a different religion and 2 things in common with your own (Req. 4)	✅ Common faiths discussion	—

At-Home Assignment¶

"Two things to do at home this month. First: attend a religious service or gathering with your family — this can be your regular place of worship, a holiday event, or any gathering your family considers reverent. Second: deliver your thank-you card to your teacher in person. When you've done both, let me know so I can log it. And congratulations — you've finished all six required adventures for the Bear badge. The rank is yours. We'll celebrate at an upcoming Pack meeting!"

Post-Meeting Notes (fill in after)¶

Attendance: ___ Scouts, ___ adults

What worked well:

What to improve:

Follow-up needed:

Meeting 11 — Baloo the Builder, Part 2: Build Day (Elective ⭐)¶

Date: Wednesday, February 3, 2027 Time: 6:30–7:30 PM (again, consider extending to 90 min — building takes time) Location: Waverly Elementary School cafeteria or a parent's garage/workshop Pack tie-in: Pinewood Derby and Klondike Derby (see Year at a Glance)

Prep required: You need all materials purchased before this meeting. Based on the project the den chose at Meeting 7, gather your lumber, nails, screws, paint, and tools. Recruit parent helpers — this meeting, like the PWD build, works best with at least one adult per 2–3 Scouts.

Materials Checklist¶

(Based on project chosen at Meeting 7 — adjust accordingly. Below assumes tic-tac-toe board.) - [ ] Pre-cut 4"×4"×1" wood blocks (1 per Scout — cut before meeting) - [ ] Golf tees (10 per Scout — 5 of one color, 5 of another; buy at dollar store) - [ ] Drill (adult-only) for pre-drilling tee holes - [ ] Paint in 2 contrasting colors (enough for 5 tees each) - [ ] Small paintbrushes (1 per Scout) - [ ] Black Sharpies for drawing the grid - [ ] Sandpaper (220-grit) - [ ] Safety glasses (1 per Scout) - [ ] First aid kit

Run of Show¶

Time	Duration	Segment	Lead	Notes
6:30	5 min	Pre-opening: Klondike Derby gear check	Den Leader	Scouts list what they'd need for a cold-weather outdoor event (layering game)
6:35	5 min	Opening ceremony	Denner	Flag, Pledge, Law
6:40	35 min	Activity: Build the project	Adults + Scouts	Sand blocks; draw grid; adult drills tee holes; Scouts paint tees and decorate board
7:15	5 min	Review Req. 1 and 2 from Baloo (both projects)	Den Leader	Discuss: PWD car (Meeting 9) counts as one project; today's project is the second
7:20	5 min	Klondike Derby prep	Den Leader	Brief overview: what to wear, cold-weather safety
7:25	5 min	Parent handoff	Den Leader	PWD reminder; Klondike gear reminder; Scouts keep their project

Build Instructions: Tic-Tac-Toe Board¶

Sand the pre-cut 4"×4"×1" block smooth on all surfaces.
Draw a tic-tac-toe grid on the top surface with a black Sharpie and ruler.
Mark 9 evenly spaced hole locations (the center of each square). Adult drills the holes to fit golf tees.
Paint 5 golf tees one color (X pieces) and 5 another color (O pieces). Let dry.
Scouts can add personal decorations to the board with Sharpie or paint.

Advancement Connections¶

Requirement	Completed at this meeting	At-home
Build first project (PWD car) (Req. 5a)	✅ Meeting 9	—
Build second project (tic-tac-toe board) (Req. 5b)	✅ Today	—

At-Home Assignment¶

"Take your tic-tac-toe board home and play it with a family member tonight. Also — your Pinewood Derby car needs to be done and weighed-in before the race. The weigh-in is [confirm date/time with Pack committee]. If your car isn't at 5 ounces yet, talk to a parent about adding weight to the bottom. Any questions, message me. The race is going to be fun!"

Post-Meeting Notes (fill in after)¶

Attendance: ___ Scouts, ___ adults

What worked well:

What to improve:

Follow-up needed:

Meeting 12 — Catch-Up / Flex¶

Date: Wednesday, February 10, 2027 Time: 6:30–7:30 PM Location: Waverly Elementary School cafeteria Pack tie-in: Pinewood Derby Pack Meeting

This is not an adventure meeting. Use it to complete any requirements that were missed or left partially done. Come prepared with a list of each Scout's status from Scoutbook Plus — print it or pull it up on your phone. Also use this time for final PWD car finishing.

Materials Checklist¶

Scoutbook Plus advancement status (printed or on device)
Bear handbooks
PWD cars (Scouts bring) + small scale, sandpaper, paint for any touch-ups
Supplies for any incomplete adventure requirements (will vary by Scout)

Run of Show¶

Time	Duration	Segment	Lead	Notes
6:30	5 min	Pre-opening: Quick trivia review	Den Leader	5 questions about Bear adventures covered this year
6:35	5 min	Opening ceremony	Denner	Flag, Pledge, Law
6:40	30 min	Catch-up stations	Den Leader	Scouts rotate: (1) handbook review + leader sign-offs; (2) PWD car tune-up; (3) any incomplete at-home requirements signed off
7:10	10 min	Good sportsmanship role-play	Den Leader	Practice for the race: what to say when you win; what to say when you lose
7:20	5 min	Closing	Den Leader	PWD race details
7:25	5 min	Parent handoff	Den Leader	Confirm weigh-in logistics; any outstanding advancement items to flag

At-Home Assignment¶

"Nothing to bring this week except your Pinewood Derby car to the race! Arrive on time for weigh-in. Wear your Class A uniform. Bring your whole family — it's a Pack event and it's going to be a great night."

Post-Meeting Notes (fill in after)¶

Attendance: ___ Scouts, ___ adults

What worked well:

What to improve:

Follow-up needed:

Meeting 13 — Catch-Up / Flex¶

Date: Wednesday, March 3, 2027 Time: 6:30–7:30 PM Location: Waverly Elementary School cafeteria Pack tie-in: Blue & Gold Banquet Pack Meeting

Second catch-up meeting. By now, every Scout who has attended regularly should have their Bear badge complete. Use this meeting to finish any remaining stragglers and to prepare a short skit or song for the Blue & Gold Banquet.

Materials Checklist¶

Scoutbook Plus advancement status (updated from the Pinewood Derby)
Bear handbooks
Skit or song ideas (print a few Scouting America campfire skits or songs to choose from)
Props for skit if needed (optional)

Run of Show¶

Time	Duration	Segment	Lead	Notes
6:30	5 min	Pre-opening: "Compliment chain"	Den Leader	Each Scout says one nice thing about the Scout on their left
6:35	5 min	Opening ceremony	Denner	Flag, Pledge, Law
6:40	15 min	Catch-up sign-offs	Den Leader	Any remaining requirements; handbook review
6:55	25 min	Blue & Gold skit/song practice	Den Leader	Choose, learn, and rehearse a 2-minute skit or song for Blue & Gold
7:20	5 min	Closing: advancement celebration	Den Leader	Confirm which Scouts have completed all requirements; celebrate!
7:25	5 min	Parent handoff	Den Leader	Blue & Gold preview; attire (Class A uniform)

At-Home Assignment¶

"We're performing at the Blue & Gold Banquet — it's the Pack's birthday party and celebration of Scouting. Wear your Class A uniform. Come ready to perform the skit we practiced. Bring your whole family — there will be a catered dinner and den skits."

Post-Meeting Notes (fill in after)¶

Attendance: ___ Scouts, ___ adults

What worked well:

What to improve:

Follow-up needed:

Meeting 14 — Super Science (Elective ⭐)¶

Date: Wednesday, March 10, 2027 Time: 6:30–7:30 PM Location: Waverly Elementary School cafeteria (Mentos experiment must be done OUTSIDE) Pack tie-in: Spring STEM energy; science theme after Blue & Gold

Safety note: The Mentos/Diet Coke experiment involves a rapid carbonation reaction that shoots liquid upward. Conduct this outdoors, on pavement or grass that is OK to get wet. Scouts must wear safety goggles. Review the experiment yourself at least once before the meeting.

Materials Checklist¶

Run of Show¶

Time	Duration	Segment	Lead	Notes
6:30	5 min	Pre-opening: Prediction journal	Den Leader	Scouts write "I predict…" for three experiments they haven't seen yet
6:35	5 min	Opening ceremony	Denner	Flag, Pledge, Law
6:40	15 min	Activity 1: Static electricity demos	Den Leader	Balloon + hair + soda can rolling race; Dancing Foil (water bottle version)
6:55	15 min	Activity 2: Mentos + Diet Coke (OUTSIDE)	Den Leader	Safety gear on; each Scout drops their Mentos; measure height or distance if time
7:10	10 min	Activity 3: Chromatography	Den Leader	Marker lines on coffee filter; dip in water; watch ink separate
7:20	5 min	Closing: What is science?	Den Leader	Discuss hypothesis, variable, and observation using tonight's experiments
7:25	5 min	Parent handoff	Den Leader	Preview Spring Campout; Forensics next meeting

Activity 1: Static Electricity (15 min)¶

Balloon-rolling race: Each Scout blows up a balloon, ties it, and rubs it on their hair. They then hold the balloon near a soda can on its side — the can rolls toward the balloon. Race to see whose can moves fastest across the floor.

Dancing Foil: Tear foil into small balls (no bigger than a pea), put in a capped water bottle. Rub balloon on a wool hat. Hold balloon under bottle (don't touch). Foil balls dance. Discuss: "What charged the balloon? Why do the balls move?"

Activity 2: Mentos + Diet Coke (15 min, outside)¶

Scouts assemble their Mentos tube (wrap paper, tape one end shut, load Mentos).
Everyone moves to an outdoor flat area. Safety goggles on.
One at a time: open bottle, place tube with card over opening, remove card, step back. Watch the geyser.
"Why does this happen? The Mentos surface is bumpy — it creates lots of nucleation sites where CO₂ bubbles form all at once."

Activity 3: Chromatography (10 min)¶

Each Scout picks a marker and draws a horizontal line on their coffee filter strip.
Dip the strip (below the line) in water. Watch ink travel up and separate.
"Forensic scientists use this technique to identify inks in questioned documents. Not all black markers are the same — the ink separates into different colors depending on the brand."

Advancement Connections¶

Requirement	Completed at this meeting	At-home
Conduct two experiments on one physical science concept (static electricity) (Req. 1)	✅ Activities 1 — two experiments, same concept	—
Conduct two experiments on a second physical science concept (density/reaction) (Req. 2)	✅ Mentos + Sink or Swim / chromatography	—
Demonstrate results of experiments to den (Req. 3 — share-out)	✅ Closing discussion and sharing	—

At-Home Assignment¶

"Try one more experiment at home this week: sink or swim. Fill three glasses with water. Add 2 tablespoons of salt to one, 2 tablespoons of sugar to another, and leave the third plain. Drop a fresh egg into each. What happens? Tell me at our next meeting. No written report needed — just be ready to explain what you saw and why."

Post-Meeting Notes (fill in after)¶

Attendance: ___ Scouts, ___ adults

What worked well:

What to improve:

Follow-up needed:

Meeting 15 — Forensics (Elective ⭐)¶

Date: Wednesday, April 7, 2027 Time: 6:30–7:30 PM Location: Waverly Elementary School cafeteria (crime scene set up in advance) Pack tie-in: Spring detective theme; active/hands-on meeting after Easter break

Prep required: Set up the "crime scene" before Scouts arrive. See Activity 1 instructions below. The "cookie mystery" format works well — take about 20 minutes of advance setup.

Materials Checklist¶

Run of Show¶

Time	Duration	Segment	Lead	Notes
6:30	5 min	Pre-opening: Mystery scene observation	Den Leader	Scouts observe the crime scene from outside the tape; write 3 things they notice
6:35	5 min	Opening ceremony	Denner	Flag, Pledge, Law
6:40	15 min	Activity 1: Solve the Mystery	Den Leader	Scouts collect fingerprints and shoe impressions; compare to scene
6:55	12 min	Activity 2: Fingerprint Fun	Den Leader	Scouts take their own fingerprints; compare patterns with a buddy
7:07	10 min	Activity 3: Substance Analysis	Den Leader	Scouts analyze salt, sugar, baking soda, cornstarch using water and vinegar
7:17	3 min	Reveal and cookies	Den Leader	"The cookie eater" is revealed; Scouts eat cookies
7:20	5 min	Closing: What is forensic science?	Den Leader	Connect to real-world crime solving
7:25	5 min	Parent handoff	Den Leader	Spring Campout preview

Activity 1: Solve the Mystery (15 min)¶

Setup (before Scouts arrive): - Designate an adult or den chief as "the cookie eater." - Transfer their fingerprint to a cup near the crime scene using an ink pad. - Trace their shoe in chalk near the scene. - Place a plate with cookie crumbs; leave small piles of sugar and baking soda nearby. - Rope off the area.

During the meeting: 1. Tell Scouts: "Someone ate our meeting cookies. Your job: figure out who." 2. Give each Scout gloves. 3. Scouts collect fingerprints from each other, adults, and the den chief (use Fingerprint Fun instructions below). 4. Scouts collect shoe impressions (chalk on construction paper — see adventure file). 5. Compare fingerprints and shoe impressions to the crime scene evidence. 6. Vote on the suspect. Reveal. Award cookies.

Activity 2: Fingerprint Fun (12 min)¶

Make sure hands are clean and dry.
Demonstrate: roll each finger on the ink pad, then roll nail-to-nail on the fingerprint card.
Scouts do their own cards. Clean up with baby wipes.
Use magnifying glasses and the patterns reference: "Do you see loops? Whorls? Arches? Is your print the same as your buddy's?"

Activity 3: Substance Analysis (10 min)¶

Each Scout gets a laminated black quadrant paper and four small piles of white powder (salt, sugar, baking soda, cornstarch — they don't know which is which).
Observe with naked eye, then magnifying glass. Feel each substance. Smell carefully.
Split each pile with a toothpick. Add a drop of water to half, a drop of vinegar to the other half.
"Which one fizzes with vinegar? (Baking soda.) Which dissolves fastest in water? Forensic chemists do exactly this to identify unknown substances at crime scenes."

Advancement Connections¶

Requirement	Completed at this meeting	At-home
Explore forensics and how it solves crimes (Req. 1)	✅ "Solve the Mystery" intro	—
Take fingerprints and analyze patterns (Req. 2)	✅ Fingerprint Fun	—
Examine shoe impressions (Req. 3)	✅ Activity 1	—
Analyze four substances (Req. 4)	✅ Substance Analysis	—
Learn about chromatography (Req. 5)	✅ Brief mention in closing (or refer back to Meeting 14 if done there)	—

At-Home Assignment¶

"Tell someone in your family about one thing forensic scientists do. Maybe explain what chromatography is, or how fingerprints work. Then: our Spring Campout is coming up. We'll send home a gear list — watch for it via Scoutbook. Plan to come!"

Post-Meeting Notes (fill in after)¶

Attendance: ___ Scouts, ___ adults

What worked well:

What to improve:

Follow-up needed:

Meeting 16 — Spring Campout Prep¶

Date: Wednesday, April 14, 2027 Time: 6:30–7:30 PM Location: Waverly Elementary School cafeteria Pack tie-in: Spring Family Campout

This is not an adventure meeting — it is logistics, prep, and excitement-building for the campout. Focus on Leave No Trace review, packing, and a campfire skit/song practice since Scouts will perform at the campfire program.

Materials Checklist¶

Spring Campout gear list (printed, 1 per Scout)
Bear handbooks (for LNT Principles review)
Skit or song for campfire program (printed scripts if needed)
Rope or paracord (for basic knot practice — optional)

Run of Show¶

Time	Duration	Segment	Lead	Notes
6:30	5 min	Pre-opening: What to pack game	Den Leader	Scouts call out items; leader writes "yes" (pack it) or "no" (leave it) on the board
6:35	5 min	Opening ceremony	Denner	Flag, Pledge, Law
6:40	15 min	Activity 1: LNT principles review + Bear Habitat connection	Den Leader	Hands-on quiz: Scouts name all 7 LNT Principles for Kids; connect to campout
6:55	20 min	Activity 2: Campfire skit practice	Den Leader	Rehearse the skit from Meeting 13 (or a new one); make it funny and polished
7:15	5 min	Activity 3: Buddy system + campout rules	Den Leader	Campout rules, buddy assignments, what to do if lost
7:20	5 min	Closing: Campout excitement!	Den Leader	Hand out gear list; logistics Q&A
7:25	5 min	Parent handoff	Den Leader	Campout logistics: arrive time, site location, fee, gear, medical forms

At-Home Assignment¶

"The Spring Campout is coming up. Use the gear list I handed out tonight to pack your bag this week — don't leave it for Friday night. Remind your parents to bring their gear too. Wear layers for Friday night — it can get cold. Bring your Six Essentials. We'll have hiking, campfire, station games, and outdoor cooking. This is going to be the best camping trip of the year."

Post-Meeting Notes (fill in after)¶

Attendance: ___ Scouts, ___ adults

What worked well:

What to improve:

Follow-up needed:

Meeting 17 — Retrospective + Advancement Review¶

Date: Wednesday, May 5, 2027 Time: 6:30–7:30 PM Location: Waverly Elementary School cafeteria Pack tie-in: Graduation Pack Meeting

Focus: Complete any final outstanding requirements, sign off in handbooks, and begin reflecting on the year. This is a low-key, celebratory meeting — Scouts have done the hard work. Log everything in Scoutbook Plus before this meeting so you know exactly who still needs what.

Materials Checklist¶

Scoutbook Plus status for each Scout (printed or on device)
Bear handbooks
Den Code of Conduct poster from Meeting 1
"Year in review" prompt cards (optional — write your own: "Favorite meeting?" "Hardest challenge?" "What surprised you?")
Blank thank-you notes (Scouts write one to themselves from the future — a fun closing activity)

Run of Show¶

Time	Duration	Segment	Lead	Notes
6:30	5 min	Pre-opening: Year trivia	Den Leader	Fun quiz: "What did we build at Meeting 7?" "What science experiment happened in March?"
6:35	5 min	Opening ceremony	Denner	Flag, Pledge, Law; last chance to be Denner
6:40	15 min	Handbook sign-off session	Den Leader	Each Scout sits with leader; open handbook; identify and sign any remaining items
6:55	15 min	Year retrospective	Den Leader	Prompt cards: What was your favorite adventure? What was the hardest? What are you most proud of?
7:10	10 min	"Letter to next year's Bear"	Den Leader	Scouts write one piece of advice for an 8-year-old starting Bears next fall
7:20	5 min	Closing: Preview graduation ceremony	Den Leader	What to expect at Graduation; wear Class A uniform; bring family
7:25	5 min	Parent handoff	Den Leader	Graduation preview; confirm all advancement is entered in Scoutbook

At-Home Assignment¶

"The Graduation Pack Meeting is our year-end ceremony. Wear your full Class A uniform and bring your whole family — grandparents and siblings are absolutely welcome. You've earned the Bear Badge of Rank this year. Be proud of that."

Post-Meeting Notes (fill in after)¶

Attendance: ___ Scouts, ___ adults

What worked well:

What to improve:

Follow-up needed:

Meeting 18 — Celebration Meeting¶

Date: Wednesday, May 12, 2027 Time: 6:30–7:30 PM Location: Waverly Elementary School cafeteria or outdoor location (park, parking lot — scout it ahead of time) Pack tie-in: Graduation Pack Meeting

This is a party. The year's work is done. Let the Scouts lead the fun — pick a game, have a snack, share some laughs. This is also the meeting to pass the den flag and any traditions to the incoming Bear den leader (if that transition is happening).

Materials Checklist¶

Snacks (let Scouts vote on a favorite at Meeting 17)
Active game supplies (whatever game the den picks at Meeting 17)
Photo supplies (group photo of the den — bring a camera or phone)
Award "certificates" or small mementos if desired (optional; handwritten cards from leader work fine)
Den Code of Conduct poster for display

Run of Show¶

Time	Duration	Segment	Lead	Notes
6:30	5 min	Pre-opening: Free choice game	Den Leader	Scouts pick up and play immediately
6:35	5 min	Opening ceremony	Denner	Last official opening of the year
6:40	25 min	Den-choice active game	Scouts	Let the Scouts run it; minimal leader interference
7:05	10 min	Snack + reflection	All	Eat together; each Scout shares their one highlight from the year
7:15	5 min	Group photo	Den Leader	Get a good one — you'll want this
7:20	5 min	Closing ceremony	Den Leader	Read the Code of Conduct aloud one last time; brief remarks from leader; thanks
7:25	5 min	Parent handoff + farewells	Den Leader	Final logistics for Graduation; leader thanks to parents

At-Home Assignment¶

"No homework. You've earned it. See you at the Pack Graduation. Come ready to celebrate — and enjoy the summer."

Post-Meeting Notes (fill in after)¶

Attendance: ___ Scouts, ___ adults

What worked well:

What to improve:

Follow-up needed:

Appendix A: Adventure Requirements Summary¶

Bobcat Bear (Required)¶

Get to know members of your den
Recite the Scout Oath and Law with your den and den leader
Identify the three points of the Scout Oath
Create a den Code of Conduct with your den
Learn about the denner position and responsibilities
Demonstrate the Cub Scout sign, salute, and handshake
Share with your den or family a time when you demonstrated "Do Your Best" and explain why it is important
Complete the "How to Protect Your Children from Child Abuse: A Parent's Guide" booklet activities at home with your parent or legal guardian

Bear Habitat (Required)¶

Gather Cub Scout Six Essentials and weather-appropriate clothing and shoes
Identify walk location on a map and confirm 1-mile route ("Know Before You Go")
Learn about the path and surrounding area ("Choose the Right Path")
Make a plan for handling personal trash or trail trash ("Trash Your Trash")
Take pictures or sketch 5 things you want to remember along the walk ("Leave What You Find")
Determine the fire danger rating along your path ("Be Careful with Fire")
From a safe distance, identify 6 signs of mammals, birds, insects, or reptiles ("Respect Wildlife")
Identify what your den needs to do to be kind to others on the path ("Be Kind to Other Visitors")
Go on your 1-mile walk while practicing the Leave No Trace Principles for Kids

Standing Tall (Required)¶

With parent/guardian permission, watch the Protect Yourself Rules video for the Bear rank (vimeo.com/325064786)
Complete the Personal Space Bubble worksheet
With your parent/guardian, set up a family policy for digital devices
Identify common personal safety gear for head, eyes, mouth, hands, and feet; list how each protects you; demonstrate proper use for one activity

Paws for Action (Required)¶

Learn about the US flag: history, how to raise and lower it, how to fold and display it, and proper flag etiquette
Identify 3 symbols that represent the United States; make a model, work of art, or craft depicting your favorite
Learn about the mission of any nonprofit organization, including how it is funded and how volunteers help
Participate in a service project

Bear Strong (Required)¶

Sample food from at least 3 of the 5 food groups: protein, vegetables, fruits, dairy, and grains
Be active for 30 minutes with your den or at least one other person, including stretching and moving
Be active for 15 minutes doing personal exercises that include cardio, muscular strength, and flexibility
Do a relaxing activity for 10 minutes
Review your Scouting America Annual Health and Medical Record with your parent/guardian and discuss your ability to participate in den and pack activities

Fellowship (Required)¶

With your parent/guardian, talk about your family's faith traditions; identify 3 holidays or celebrations that are part of those traditions; make a craft, work of art, or food item tied to a favorite faith tradition
With your family, attend a religious service or gathering that shows how your family expresses reverence
Carry out an act of kindness
With your parent/guardian, identify a religion or faith different from your own and determine 2 things it has in common with your family's beliefs
NOTE: This adventure may alternatively be earned by completing a Religious Emblem of the family's choosing.

Let's Camp Bear (Elective)¶

Review the buddy system and how it works in the outdoors
Identify the Cub Scout Six Essentials and show what you do with each
In addition to the Six Essentials, show the personal items you need for your campout
Help set up a tent; determine a good spot and explain why you picked it
Attend a council or district Cub Scout overnight camp or a campout with your pack

Race Time Bear (Elective)¶

With an adult, build either a Pinewood Derby car or a Raingutter Regatta boat
Learn the rules of the race for the vehicle you built
Identify how you could increase the speed of your chosen vehicle
Before the race, discuss with your den how you will demonstrate good sportsmanship
Participate in a Pack Pinewood Derby or Raingutter Regatta

Baloo the Builder (Elective)¶

Learn about basic tools and proper use of each; understand the need for safety when working with tools
Practice using 4 of the tools you learned about
Choose a project to build with your den
Determine the tools and materials needed to build your project
Build two projects from wood

Super Science (Elective)¶

Conduct two experiments about the same physical science concept (static electricity)
Conduct two experiments about a second physical science concept (density/chemical reactions)
Show the results of at least two experiments to your den or family

Forensics (Elective)¶

Explore the term "forensics" and how it is used to help solve crimes
Analyze a fingerprint and determine if it is a loop, whorl, or arch
Make a shoe impression and discuss what information can be obtained from it
Do an analysis of four different substances: salt, sugar, baking soda, and cornstarch
Learn about chromatography and how it is used in solving crimes

Appendix B: Materials Master List¶

Every Meeting — Standing Supplies¶

Bear handbooks (remind Scouts to bring; keep 2 spares)
Den Code of Conduct poster
Popsicle sticks + jar (denner lottery)
First aid kit
Water (for Scouts)
Scoutbook Plus access (phone or laptop) for logging completions

One-Time Items by Meeting¶

Meeting	Key Items to Acquire
M1	Name tags, poster board, markers, bean bags, index cards (12), "How to Protect" booklets, popsicle sticks
M2	2 tents, Six Essentials display set, Six Essentials word search printouts, Musical Gear items (sleeping bag, cooking gear, non-camping items), Camping Checklist printouts
M3	Trash Timeline cards (2 sets), "Paths for Everyone" worksheets, maps of walk route, Activity Consent Forms, Fire Danger cards
M4	Laptop/projector for video, Personal Space Bubble worksheets, Digital Safety Pledge printouts
M5	US flags (1 per 3 Scouts), Citizenship Flag Trivia sheets, Play-Doh (assorted colors, 4 oz/Scout) OR watercolor sets
M6	Apple delight ingredients (apples, yogurt, honey, granola, bananas, strawberries), plates, napkins, Energizing Workout worksheets, Yoga Salutation printout
M7	Safety glasses, hand tools (hammer, screwdrivers, saws, brace and bit, clamp, measuring tape, sandpaper), scrap wood, nails, screws, practice boards, Tool and Supply List worksheets
M8	Paper for car sketches, colored pencils, Pinewood Derby Rules Crossword printouts, Car Tune-Up Report printouts
M9	Each Scout's car kit + design sketch, safety goggles, ear protection, band saw access, sandpaper (120/220/400 grit), hammers, screwdrivers, flat weights (Scout Shop), acrylic paint, brushes, scale, car adjustment tool
M10	Clay (1 lb/Scout) OR pretzel turkey treat ingredients, card stock for thank-you notes, markers/stickers, Common Faith Elements worksheets
M11	Pre-cut 4"×4"×1" wood blocks, golf tees, paint (2 colors), sandpaper, safety glasses, Sharpies, drill for tee holes (adult-only)
M12	Scoutbook status printout, car touch-up supplies (sandpaper, scale, paint)
M13	Scoutbook status, skit printouts/props
M14	Safety goggles, Diet Coke (1 per Scout), Mentos (1 per Scout), index cards, paper strips, tape, aprons, balloons, empty soda cans, coffee filter strips (1"wide), markers (various brands, tested), glasses of water, paper plates
M15	Crime scene setup (ink pad, chalk, cookie plate, sugar, baking soda, rope/tape), gloves, magnifying glasses, ink pads (2), Fingerprint Cards (printed), baby wipes, laminated quadrant paper, Substance Observations worksheets, eyedroppers, toothpicks, salt/sugar/baking soda/cornstarch, vinegar, cookies
M16	Spring Campout gear list printouts
M17	Scoutbook status, year trivia questions, prompt cards, blank cards
M18	Snacks (per Scout vote at M17), game supplies, camera

Appendix C: Pack Calendar Tie-Ins¶

Pack Event	What Your Den Does	Adventure / Requirement Satisfied
Fall Family Campout	Attend as a family; buddy system; set up tent; Six Essentials	Let's Camp Bear — Req. 5 (campout attendance)
Leaf Raking at St. Alphonsus Rodriguez	Wear work clothes and gloves; rake for ~2 hours	Paws for Action — Req. 4 (service project)
PWD Car Kit Distribution	Receive car kit; don't cut until the build meeting	Race Time Bear — sets up Req. 1
STEM Carnival Night	Bring your Bear Strong and Super Science knowledge; participate in station activities	Reinforces science/fitness themes
Pinewood Derby	Race your car; demonstrate sportsmanship	Race Time Bear — Req. 5 (race participation)
Blue & Gold Banquet	Perform den skit; Class A uniform; family dinner	Cultural connection; rank celebration
Scouting for Food	Distribute bags and collect food donations with the Pack	Supports community service theme
Spring Family Campout	Attend as a family; perform at campfire program	Reinforces outdoor and camping skills
End-of-Year Graduation (June Ice Cream Social)	Receive Bear Badge of Rank; celebrate moving up to Webelos	Year-end milestone

Appendix D: Den Leader Quick Reference¶

Monthly Reminders¶

Month	Key Tasks
September	Log Bobcat at-home (Parent's Guide) completions within the first two weeks; confirm all Scouts are registered in Scoutbook; attend the September NPD Roundtable (2nd Monday, Hammond High School, 7:30 PM)
October	Confirm Bear Habitat walk logistics and consent forms; log Bear Habitat when walk is done
November	Leaf Raking — communicate to all families; log Paws for Action (service project) after the event; log Bear Strong after Meeting 6
December	Log Fellowship craft and discussion from Meeting 10; send Fellowship at-home reminder (religious service, act of kindness); Meeting 12: catch-up audit
January	PWD build day logistics — recruit adult helpers before the build meeting (Meeting 9); log all remaining required adventures by Meeting 10; email parents "Scouts have earned the Bear badge!"
February	PWD weigh-in (confirm date); Klondike Derby — gear reminder; log Baloo the Builder after Meeting 11
March	Blue & Gold skit practice; Scouting for Food participation; log any outstanding electives
April	Spring Campout gear list out by Meeting 15 (Forensics); Forensics meeting; campout logistics finalized
May	Final advancement audit; confirm all requirements in Scoutbook; coordinate Bear Badge presentation with Cubmaster for Graduation

Useful Links¶

Resource	Link
Scoutbook Plus (advancement)	advancements.scouting.org
Scouting America Bear Adventures	scouting.org/programs/cub-scouts/adventures/bear/
Guide to Safe Scouting	scouting.org/health-and-safety/gss/
Scouting America SAFE Checklist	scouting.org/health-and-safety/safe/
Scouting America Annual Health & Medical Record	scouting.org/health-and-safety/ahmr/
Safeguarding Youth Training (my.scouting.org)	my.scouting.org
NPD Klondike Derby	baltimorescouting.org/nationalpike/program/activities-services/np-klondike/
Pinewood Derby rules	scoutlife.org/hobbies-projects/pinewood-derby/
Baltimore Area Council events	baltimorescouting.org

Safeguarding Youth Training (SYT) & Two-Deep Leadership¶

Safeguarding Youth Training (SYT) — the renamed and updated successor to Youth Protection Training (YPT) — is required for every registered adult and is a joining requirement. SYT must be renewed every year; if it lapses, you cannot re-register. Complete or renew it at my.scouting.org before the first meeting. Details: scouting.org/training/safeguarding-youth.

Two-deep leadership: every den meeting must have at least two registered adults present (or one registered adult plus a parent/guardian). Never be one-on-one with a Scout. If your co-leader is absent, recruit a parent before the meeting — do not run a meeting solo.