1. Meetings Boy Scouts of America Say (in your own words):
In this module, we will go into more detail on how to run effective pack and den meetings.
Do:
Be sure that you exhibit energy and enthusiasm.
Boy Scouts of America
Rev. 6/6/12 1

2. The Scouting Month
Two or more den meetings with leaders and/or adult partners
One outing, activity, or camping experience (or Go See It for Tiger Cubs)
Participation in the pack meeting
Say (in your own words):
Our goal is to get Tiger Cubs, Wolf and Bear Cub Scouts, and Webelos Scouts
to see and do as many interesting things as possible.
Do:
For Tiger Cubs, point out that:
1. Each boy and adult partner pair will conduct two den meetings in one month.
2. The den leader will help plan them.
3. The Go See It is a third part of the monthly program
4. The Tiger Cubs go to the pack meeting to get their awards and to share in the fun.
Discuss the importance of the Go See It. It gets the boys out of the house and
lets them learn about things around them that they might not otherwise see. It also
helps the parents get to know one another and builds stronger den bonds.
For other Cubs Scouts, point out that:
1. The den leader plans the den meetings.
2. The Cub Scout den may meet up to four times a month. That may include
two den meetings, an outing, and the monthly pack meeting.
3. The Cub Scouts go to the pack meeting to get their awards and to
share in the fun.
Boy Scouts of America 2

3. Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide
Most important resource for den leaders
One-stop shop for planning den meetings
Introduction to Cub Scouting and den leader responsibilities
Den meeting plans for all ranks
Pack meeting plans
References and resources
Say (in your own words):
The Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide is the most important tool in the den leader’s
toolbox. It, and the plans inside, are the key to your boys advancing smoothly
in the Cub Scout program. They are also the key to planning and running your den
meetings smoothly and with confidence.
Do:
Describe and show each portion of the Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide.
Take time to review the table of contents and each section.
Boy Scouts of America 3

4. Cub Scout Pack Meetings
Overview
Before the Meeting
Gathering
Opening
Program
Recognition
Closing
After the Meeting
Say (in your own words):
The Cubmaster is responsible for planning and conducting the pack meeting.
Lots of fun, activity, and recognition are all part of a successful meeting.
** Do not discuss each bullet item when showing this chart. **
Do:
Show the Pack Meeting Planning Sheet. Note that a written agenda is extremely
important for success, and it is important that everyone knows who is responsible
for each agenda item.
Review and discuss the Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide and its preplanned
pack meeting.
Tell participants that they will not be alone in conducting the pack meeting; other adults
will be there as support.
Resource: Cub Scout Leader Book, Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide
The Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide contains a model pack meeting plan for each month!
Boy Scouts of America 4

5. Before the Meeting Room arrangements Materials and equipment
Meeting agenda review
Recognition review
Put on a smile
Get ready to have FUN!
Say (in your own words):
The Cubmaster and other participating leaders complete preparations just
before the pack meeting. They make sure the room is in order and that all needed
materials are ready, and they review the agenda together to be sure nothing has
been forgotten.
Do:
Discuss the remaining points on the slide. Explain that the Cubmaster sets the tone
for the meeting—that excitement and leadership in others come from the
positive attitude the Cubmaster shows.
Resource: Cub Scout Leader Book
Boy Scouts of America 5

6. Gathering Greeters Den exhibits Pre-opening activity
Say (in your own words):
A den should be assigned to greet the people attending each pack meeting;
adult assistance will be necessary. A sign-in sheet can also be used to keep
track of who is there for an attendance award.
Do:
Explain the importance of the pre-opening activity: It is to keep arriving boys busy. If
you don’t find something for them to do, they will find it themselves—and it may
not be what you want them to do!
Resource: Cub Scout Leader Book
Boy Scouts of America 6

7. Opening Opening ceremony/prayer Song (fun and active)
Flag ceremony
Pledge of Allegiance
Song (fun and active)
Welcome and introductions (short and sweet)
Say (in your own words):
A good opening ceremony marks the start of the meeting. A flag ceremony is often
used. It can be followed by a non-denominational or interfaith prayer.
Then the fun begins!
Do:
Emphasize that it’s important to include everyone: Select songs that everyone
knows, use an opening ceremony that is appropriate to the event and the den
conducting the ceremony, use a prayer that includes all faiths represented in the pack.
Tell the participants that the Cubmaster welcomes Cub Scouts and families, and
introduces any special guests, recognizes the committees for their efforts and success
in setting up the meeting place, and keeps remarks brief to hold everyone’s attention.
Show the Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide, the Cub Scout Leader How-To
Book, the Cub Scout Songbook, and Group Meeting Sparklers as good resources for
planning a pack meeting.
Resources: Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide, Cub Scout Leader How-
To Book, Cub Scout Songbook, and Group Meeting Sparklers
Boy Scouts of America 7

8. Program Tiger Cub and Cub Scout den skits and stunts
Webelos den demonstrations
Games
Include as many boys as possible!
Involve parents and others, too
Organization is necessary
Be prepared
Say (in your own words):
In this part of the meeting, we give the boys a chance to shine. Various skits and
stunts can be done. Cheers are always used to recognize the work the boys do!
Do:
Remind the participants that the boys need a chance to show what they are doing in
the dens. This part of the program is for that purpose.
Say that this helps inactive boys get active quickly. If you focus them on activities in
this part of the program, they will be active in ways you want them to be.
Tell the Cubmasters that they need to be prepared for things to go wrong or for
dens that are not ready for their part of the program, and that it helps to have extra
activities ready to use.
Resource: Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide, Cub Scout Leader How-To Book,
Cub Scout Songbook, and Group Meeting Sparklers
Boy Scouts of America 8

9. Recognition Boys Leaders Attendance awards Advancement Special awards
Special thanks
Leader award presentation
Attendance awards
Say (in your own words):
The recognition part of the meeting is important to the boys, to their parents and other
family members, and to the den leaders.
Do:
Remind participants that the advancement chair of the pack committee is responsible
for obtaining the advancement badges and awards before the pack meeting. Before
the pack meeting starts, the awards should be organized by den or by activity. Large
packs need a lot of preparation in this area to keep the pack meeting flowing.
An award should always be given to the adult family member, who then gives it to
the boy. Don’t take for granted that family members will attend; make sure they have
been alerted several days in advance.
Attendance awards can be given to recognize dens with the highest percentage of
members present.
Resources: Cub Scout Leader Book
Boy Scouts of America 9

10. Closing Announcements Closing ceremony Keep them short
Important items only
Handouts for the other items
Closing ceremony
Cubmaster’s Minute
Flag ceremony, etc.
Say (in your own words):
The meeting is nearly over. It’s time to end.
Do:
Briefly discuss the points on the slide.
Say that the closing ceremony might involve the flag or may be selected from
many different sources. The main thing is to keep it simple.
Describe a Cubmaster’s Minute. You may wish to provide an example.
Resources: Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide, Cub Scout Leader How-To Book,
Cub Scout Songbook, and Group Meeting Sparklers
Boy Scouts of America 10

11. After the Meeting Serve refreshments Clean up
Start getting ready for the next meeting
Say (in your own words):
Some packs provide refreshments after the meeting. Others may choose not to.
Consider your facility in making the decision. After the meeting, get plenty of
help in cleaning up the facility and leave it as you found it, or better.
Do:
Suggest that the pack’s relationship with the provider of the facilities must be
considered when you hold a pack meeting. Be sure you leave the facility as
clean as or cleaner than it was before the pack meeting. Put things back in place.
Throughout the time any pack members are in the building, supervise the boys
and their siblings to keep them out of areas where they are not authorized to be.
Resource: Cub Scout Leader Book
Boy Scouts of America 11

12. The Ideal Pack Meeting Well-planned Everyone participates Exhibits
Proper uniforms
Pack meeting program is followed
Start and stop on time
Keep moving and limit announcements
Focus on advancement
KISMIF
Say (in your own words):
Here’s what makes a pack meeting great.
Do:
Discuss the importance of each item.
Explain that properly planned pack meetings move along at a good pace,
keep everyone involved, include something for everyone, and have a limited
amount of “adult stuff.”
Introduce the term KISMIF: Keep It Simple, Make It FUN!
Boy Scouts of America 12

13. Using the Den Plans Two types of den meeting plans are provided.
A school year’s worth of plans:
Focused on path to advancement.
Should be followed in order.
Assumes a September start and May transition with continued summer activities.
Assumes two den meetings are held per month.
Additional for dens needing more meetings:
Used in any order.
Focused on electives.
Say (in your own words):
There are two sets of plans in the Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide. The first
set might be thought of as the basics; they are the plans that, if followed, will lead a
boy to advancement in rank. These plans must be followed in numerical order because
some activities build off others.
The second set of plans, called Additional, are provided for dens that meet more than
two times per month as a den or that meet year-round. These plans are more involved
with electives and other activities.
Boy Scouts of America 13

14. Den Meetings Overview – Similar to Pack Meeting Structure
Before the Meeting
Gathering
Opening
Business Items
Activities
Closing
After the Meeting
Say (in your own words):
To make planning a den meeting easier, it is divided into seven parts. All dens follow
the same structure, regardless of rank.
Do:
Discuss that having defined parts of the meeting makes it easier to plan: You plan
each part and then put them together. Say that most meetings last about an hour, but
some may be longer or shorter.
If you have experienced den leaders in your training, acknowledge that Tiger
Cubs and Webelos historically followed a different den meeting structure but that
now all dens follow the same one.
Distribute a den meeting plan from the Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide
for next month and use it to illustrate how a den meeting is planned and conducted.
Provide a copy of this pre-planned meeting to each participant. Review each
part of the meeting and show how the Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide
contains helpful information.
Resource: Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide
Boy Scouts of America 14

15. Before the Meeting Review and make final preparations.
Consult the Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide.
Review materials and preparation needed early and often.
Say (in your own words):
Planning for a meeting should begin well before the day of the meeting.
Materials and preparation are required, and already spelled out in the Den &
Pack Meeting Resource Guide. They are listed in “After the Meeting” of the
prior den meeting plan so that planning may begin early. Before the meeting, the
den leader and others assisting should get together for a last-minute check to make
sure that everything is ready.
Do:
Show where to find this information in the Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide.
Tell the participants that this step may be done in person or using some other
method. Say that (for Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Scouts) the denner and den
chief may also be part of the preparation. Organize seating, flags, advancement
charts, handouts, etc.
Boy Scouts of America 15

16. Gathering Have something for them to do: Game Puzzle Magic
Outdoor activity
Supervision is important!
Say (in your own words):
The boys will probably not all get to the meeting at the same time. Some may be
early. Have something for them to do so they don’t have to find something to
do themselves (perhaps something they shouldn’t be doing)!
Do:
Explain that the purpose of the gathering activity is to have something for the boys
to do so they don’t have to find something else to do—in other words, you want
them to be busy with something you have planned. While others are supervising, you
can do things such as collect dues, record attendance, or record achievements and
electives completed during the week.
Boy Scouts of America 16

17. Opening Opening ceremony of some type: Flag ceremony (always)
Cub Scout motto
Song
Den yell
Prayer
Say (in your own words):
The purpose of the opening is to separate the gathering activity from the meeting.
Do:
Mention that all den meetings should start with a flag ceremony. In addition,
any of the ideas listed on the slide are useful. Depending on the group, have the
participants repeat the Cub Scout motto, Do Your Best, as their opening to the
meeting—or repeat the Cub Scout Oath.
If necessary, remind participants that the Webelos Scouts will be working toward
a transition to Boy Scouting and that the opening part of the meeting is a good
time for them to review some of the things they will need to know to fulfill
their Arrow of Light requirements.
Other ideas for opening ceremonies can be found in Cub Scout Ceremonies for
Dens and Packs.
Boy Scouts of America 17

18. Business Items Character Connection for monthly Core Values
Pack meeting preparation
Prepare for special den activities
Verify home assignment completion
Say (in your own words):
This section of the meeting helps you get some of the hard work done first. It
is a good time to discuss the monthly Core Value. This time may also be used
for the den to prepare for its role in the pack meeting. Use this time to review the
boys’ handbooks to confirm that home assignments have been completed.
Do:
Discuss the points on the slide. Follow formats and content from the Den & Pack
Meeting Resource Guide and Webelos Leader Guide.
Boy Scouts of America 18

19. Activities Advancement and electives
Defined in the Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide.
Say (in your own words):
The activities portion of the meeting is the fun part that the boys really like.
These activities may take place in your den meeting location or an outing
somewhere in the community.
Do:
Highlight the items on the slide, and have example activities prepared for the group.
For Tiger Cubs, explain that more than one requirement or elective typically
would be worked on in each activity session and that all activities are designed
to be accomplished by the boy and his partner together, not the boy alone.
For Wolf and Bear Cub Scouts, show the Wolf Trail (Achievements) and Bear Trail
(Achievements) chapters and both Arrow Point Trail (Electives) chapters in the
Wolf Handbook and the Bear Handbook.
For Webelos Scouts, select an activity badge that boys will be working on for
the next few meetings.
Resources: Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide, Cub Scout Leader How-To Book,
Webelos Leader Guide
Boy Scouts of America 19

20. Closing Awards and recognition
Reminders (upcoming events and home assignments)
Den leader’s minute
Brief closing ceremony
Cleanup
Say (in your own words):
There are many ways to close a meeting. Award or recognize any advancement
completed at this meeting. Thank any assistants, guests, and parent helpers. Make
sure you remind the boys (and their parents) of any home assignments they need
to complete before the next den meeting. Keep announcements brief and to the
point. Providing a family information letter will keep reminders to a minimum
and keep parents informed. You may have an inspirational thought to share and
then conduct a closing ceremony. Vary your closings to make them memorable.
Everyone can help clean up.
Do:
Conduct a simple closing ceremony. Show the participants the resource that
you used. Share a sample family information letter.
Resources: Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide, Cub Scout Ceremonies for Dens and Packs
Boy Scouts of America 20

21. After the Meeting Review this meeting. Plan/review the next meeting.
Clean up.
Relax.
Say (in your own words):
After the meeting, get together with the hosting adult partner/assistant den leader/
den chief (depending on the group) and identify positive aspects of your meeting
and what can be improved. Discuss the materials and meeting plan for the next
week. Review the preparation requirements for the next meeting in the Den &
Pack Meeting Resource Guide.
Do:
Discuss that after the meeting is really the beginning of the next den activity.
Boy Scouts of America 21

22. Great Den Meetings . . . Are planned well in advance
Operate with shared leadership
Use the boys’ handbooks and Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide as the primary guides
Follow the den meeting plans from the Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide
Anticipate any behavior problems
Are FUN!
Say (in your own words):
Remember, planning makes meetings great!
Do:
Discuss the points on the slide.
Explain that good den meetings and den activities are more than just learning activities.
They need to be fun because the boys are looking for activities that are fun and
exciting. Add things to your den program that give them a chance to be creative.
Boy Scouts of America 22

23. Sample Closing Ceremony The Living Circle
(This is just one version of this ceremony.)
Each person grasps the extended left thumb of the person to the left, thus making a complete living circle handclasp. Meanwhile, the right hand of each is held high above the head in the Cub Scout Sign.
The living circle can be put into action by pumping the left hands up and down while all say:
"Ah-kay-la! We'll do our best!",
snapping into a circle of individual salutes at the word “best.”
Say (in your own words):
Do you have any questions?
Do:
Answer questions, if any. If the questions require complex answers, ask to defer them
until later or arrange for another trainer to handle the questions after training.
Boy Scouts of America 23

24. Review and Questions Boy Scouts of America Say (in your own words):
Do you have any questions?
Do:
Answer questions, if any. If the questions require complex answers, ask to defer them
until after the wrap-up.
Boy Scouts of America 24

25. Conclusion and Recognition
Say (in your own words):
We have reached the point in our pack meeting for recognition.
Do:
Create a simple recognition certificate, or bring a small token to present. If the
group is large, have enough trainers present to avoid a long delay.
At the end of the ceremony, have the participants give each other a “big hand.” (Of
course, this is the Cub Scout version!)
Boy Scouts of America

26. National Cub Scouting Resources
Leader Book
Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide
Leader How-To Book
Webelos Leader Guide
Scouting magazine
Boys’ Life
Guide to Safe Scouting
National Web sites
Other books and pamphlets
Say (in your own words):
The BSA National Council prepares and updates all types of literature to help
make Cub Scouting fun for you and for the boys.
Do:
Show each of the listed publications. Explain how they are helpful. Be sure to
suggest that each person present at least get a copy of the Cub Scout Leader Book.
References: Cub Scout Leader Book, Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide,
Cub Scout Leader How-To Book, Scouting magazine
Boy Scouts of America

27. Local Cub Scouting Resources
Monmouth Council service center (Morganville)
District and Unit Commissioner
District Executive and other support staff
Scout Executive
Camping facilities (QHSR and FSR)
Program support
Fund-raising programs
Activities
Say (in your own words):
Your local council also plays an important supporting role.
Do:
Explain the role of the Scout executive and the district executive. If possible,
have the participants write the names and phone numbers of their district executives
on their training materials.
Emphasize the remaining points on the slide. Mention some of the council and
district activities that are held for the Cub Scouts, such as Tiger Cub fun days, day
camp, Webelos weekend or Webelos woods and Cub Scout shooting sports days.
Resources: Local Resource Worksheet handout
Boy Scouts of America

28. Local Information Sources
Roundtable
Monthly meeting
For all leaders and interested parents
Conducted by the district
Program ideas and fun
Council Web site, newsletters, others
Commissioner service
Say (in your own words):
Roundtable is a monthly meeting for all Cub Scouting leaders conducted by the district’s
commissioner staff. Commissioners are volunteers who have a responsibility to
help your unit succeed. Roundtable provides information about the monthly Core
Values, pack activities, training, and other events. It is also an opportunity to meet
leaders from other packs in your district and to share tips and solve problems.
Do:
Provide information about the district roundtable schedule and location.
Resources: Locally prepared roundtable flier
Boy Scouts of America

29. Local Information Sources
Training
Various online courses
Instructor-Led courses
Information posted on MCBSA website
Say (in your own words):
You can learn more about Cub Scouting through training. A trained leader is one
who has completed Youth Protection Training and leader-specific training appropriate to his
or her positions.
Do:
Describe BALOO, Outdoor Leader Skills for Webelos Leaders, Youth Protection, and
Health and Safety training. Provide training dates if possible. Indicate who should
attend each kind of training and how often it is necessary to refresh the training.
Reference: Online Learning Center at MyScouting
Boy Scouts of America

30. Local Information Sources
Say (in your own words):
Roundtable is a monthly meeting for all Cub Scouting leaders conducted by the district’s
commissioner staff. Commissioners are volunteers who have a responsibility to
help your unit succeed. Roundtable provides information about the monthly Core
Values, pack activities, training, and other events. It is also an opportunity to meet
leaders from other packs in your district and to share tips and solve problems.
Do:
Provide information about the district roundtable schedule and location.
Resources: Locally prepared roundtable flier
Boy Scouts of America

31. Unit Information Sources
Pack trainer
Other leaders
Pack library
Visit another den meeting
Ask for advice
Ask for help
Say (in your own words):
One of the best sources for information is your pack leadership. If you are in a pack
with experienced leaders, they have been where you are and can provide a lot of
good suggestions and tips on how to succeed.
Visiting other den meetings or pack meetings is also a great way to get to
“know the ropes.”
Do:
After this slide, conduct a morale feature.
Boy Scouts of America

32. So… did you do this? Learn the fundamentals of Cub Scouting
Learn what Cub Scout leaders do
Learn how to make Cub Scouting work
Learn how to have fun with my den and pack
Learn how to have successful den and pack meetings and activities
Boy Scouts of America

33. Summary and Punch-Line
Cub Scouting is fun for everyone involved.
The program is already designed for you.
There is great value for the boys and adults.
The program works if adults set the example.
Every Scout deserves a trained leader!
Boy Scouts of America

34. Congratulations! Boy Scouts of America Say (in your own words):
Congratulations—you have completed den leader training. Now go make this stuff work and have
fun with your Cub Scouts!
Do:
Award the participants their training completion cards. You may also wish to present
a completion certificate. Make sure that all participants are furnished with the
dates, times, and locations of their district roundtable before they leave. Encourage
them to attend roundtable regularly.
Confirm completion of all elements of the Trained Leader requirements before
authorizing the “Trained” status.
Boy Scouts of America