Research and feedback says…
- Developing character is the #1 reason to join Scouting, according to parents.
- 61% of Lion youth are new families to Scouting!
- 75% of new parents take on leadership roles. Roles include assistant den leader, committee member, and more.
Read on to learn all of the latest updates and understand how to best integrate Lions into Cub Scouting.
When does the pilot stop and Lions become part of Cub Scouting?
Lions will officially kick off as a new Cub Scout rank for fall of 2018.
Do we still use the word “Cub” for Lions?
To simplify things and be consistent, Cub Scouting no longer uses the term Tiger Cubs or Lion Cubs. The youth are simply called Lions or Tigers.
Can we register Lions for the fall now?
Yes, the Lions program starts in August through the academic year.
With Lions now being the first offering in Cub Scouting, will Bobcat stay in Tigers or move to Lions?
Bobcat is staying in Tigers and will remain as it is currently run in the program.
Do den chiefs work with Lions?
Den chiefs can work with those in Cub Scouting ranks: Bears, Wolves and Webelos. Lions and Tigers do not have den chiefs. Since an adult partner is required, the den chiefs are reserved for the older ranks.
With the new Lion merchandise available this summer, can families purchase these items?
Yes. Lions who have earned the various adventure loops and/or Lion rank patch are welcome to purchase these items.
What’s New for Lions?
Lion materials have been updated to reflect the needs of both boys and girls. All girl dens or all boy dens are welcome. Updates on the Lion website.
Lions will now have more resources similar to other Cub Scout ranks. These are in Scout Shops in preparation for the fall start. For merchandise questions, please contact Supply Customer Service at 800-323-0736 or [email protected].
Additional New Items Available
The Lion Parent and Leader Guidebook will have a new cover. It will still be available for parents and leaders all wrapped together in the Lion kit.
The youth handbook will get a new cover. Previously called the Youth Adventure Book, it is now called the Lion Cub Scout Handbook. This update will be consistent with the other Cub Scout ranks.
A new rank strip patch is also arriving. It will provide for better placement when a Lion moves to Tigers and beyond. The previous diamond patch will be discounted as stock runs out. The new rank patch can be placed on the T-shirt over their heart.
Stickers are still available for the youth to place in their Lion Cub Scout Handbook immediately as they complete an adventure. However, new Adventure Loops will be available just as they are available for the other Cub Scout ranks. These can be awarded during pack meetings or as the pack traditionally awards them to the youth.
Because Lions will now have Adventure Loops, they will also begin wearing their Cub Scout belt to proudly display their earned awards. Your den may also be interested in the single
In the Adventure of Gizmos and Gadgets a new activity was added for a new yellow/gold neckerchief and slide. These would be awarded after the adventure is complete, according to the desire of the advancement chair and den leader.
What’s Not Changing for Lions?
The T-shirt is loved by children and parents, alike. The youth enjoy the comfort and fun of the Lion T-shirt, while the parents love the price point and cute character. The T-shirt remains the official Lion uniform. The cap is still an optional item.
The Lion curriculum is still the same fun and energetic program. Pinewood Derby was added last year.
As mentioned above, the Lion Parent and Leader Guidebook will still be available for parents and leaders all wrapped together in the Lion kit, which includes:
- Lion stickers
- Lion Cub Scout Handbook
- Lion Parent and Den Leader Guide
- Youth Protection, How to Protect Your Children from Child Abuse: A Parent’s Guide – newly added for Lions. But the version is the same as it is for the rest of Cub Scouts.
The Lion website is still the same, complete with all the program resources you need, including PowerPoints, videos, recruitment flyers, image link, FAQs, and more. All resources will be updated by the end of May.
Have questions about Lions not mentioned here? Please contact BSA’s Member Care Contact Center at – 972-580-2489 or at [email protected]. You may also contact your local council service center for more details pertaining to your local Lion Den.
