Information for Parents
What Is Cub Scouting? What Is Cub Scouting?Cub Scouts are boys in the first through fifth grade. The objective of Cub Scouts is to build strong minds and strong bodies through the nine principles of Cub Scouting. Cub Scouting is an outdoor, family program. We offer a number of activities throughout the year, including hikes, trips, campouts and service projects. Boys are recognized for their participation and achievement with patches, medals and awards. Boys belong to Dens based on their grade. First grade boys are Tiger Cubs. Second graders are Wolves. In the third grade, boys graduate to become Bears. And fourth and fifth grade boys prepare for Boy Scouts as Webelos. Individual Dens meet during the month to work on achievements and activities from their Cub Scout books. These might include a craft, like building a birdhouse, a trip to visit the local fire station, or participation in sports and games. Once a month, all of the Dens meet as a Pack. Dens have a chance to show off what they’ve been up to while the Pack family catches up on the last month’s happenings. We talk about upcoming events, play some games and sing songs, and recognize progress that individual boys and their Dens have made in the last month with exciting ceremonies! Why Should My Son Be A Scout?Scouting is a unique experience. It develops strong values and builds character in an environment unlike any other. Boys learn by doing in a fun, outdoor environment, side by side with other boys and adults. The world has changed since we were kids. Many feel that the 'good' things in people are giving way to the 'bad'. Scouting reinforces the good, and helps guide boys to grow into the men we want them to be. Scouting also teaches useful skills, and exposes boys to activities and ideas they might not otherwise experience. Many will better prepare them for adulthood. Some skills might even help them get a better job, save their life, or save the life of another. Not all boys that join will stay in Scouting--Just like not all boys will enjoy football. But all that join will look back on Scouting as a cherished part of their lives. Articles of interest about Scouts and Scouting:
Columbine echoes at Scouts' 'Camporee' It’s a Family Thing!Cub Scouting isn’t just about boys, though. It’s for the entire family! Siblings and parents are encouraged to get involved in Scouting. Our campouts offer an opportunity for the whole family to get out and enjoy an overnight experience in the great outdoors, or just an afternoon of wilderness activities for those that can’t or don’t want to camp out. Most Den activities and trips are open to siblings, and parents are always welcome! (It’s usually a good idea to let your Den Leader know, however, so they can plan for brothers and sisters.) Siblings and Parents are welcome to compete in our annual Pinewood Derby, Rain Gutter Regatta, and Space Derby races. We have lots of categories, and everyone gets a participation award! Our Father/Son Cake Bake takes place every October. The themes of Scouting and Halloween give Dads and Scouts a chance to show off their creative baking skills! It’s always an enjoyable and entertaining meeting! We pride ourselves on the participation and involvement of our families. If you want babysitting, look elsewhere. Each of our families contributes to the pack, whether as a leader, a committee member, or by helping to organize an event or make phone calls. Who runs it?Cub Scouts is a volunteer organization. Leaders all give of their own personal time. Each receives training from the local Boy Scout Council for their specific position, as well as special Youth Protection Training. We also sponsor first aid and CPR training for our leaders and parents. Our local District holds monthly meetings, called Round Tables, where leaders meet to exchange ideas and stay current on events and activities sponsored by the local Council and District. Leaders can take advanced training at our Council offices in a variety of subjects, ranging from swimming safety to cold weather survival techniques. Pack 614 leaders are standouts in both Scouting and their community. They run Scout camps, teach leader training, manage fund-raising programs, and provide leadership to Scouting units throughout the Murrieta Valley. They are members of PTA and active in charitable activities and education. They're your neighbors, your friends, the parents of your kids friends. All have made the commitment to your child and theirs! What does it cost?Basic membership dues for Pack 614 are $45 annually, which includes:
Scouts whose parents volunteer for a leadership position, or who participate by helping to organize an event receive a $5 discount. Tiger Cubs, or additional Scouts from the same family, may register for only $26 (which does not include the subscription to Boys Life). Additional subscriptions to Boys Life are $9.00. Additionally, you’ll need to purchase a uniform and insignia, and pay monthly Den dues, usually around $5 a month. Compared to the costs of many other activities, Cub Scouting is a bargain, especially when you consider everything you get from scouting. Compare it to a youth baseball or soccer league, which costs anywhere from $70 to $150 just to sign up. On top of that, you’ll need to pay for a uniform and shoes, perhaps some equipment. The league may run a few months, while Scouts is year-round. But best of all, nobody sits on the bench in Scouts!! Every boy deserves the opportunity to be a Scout, regardless of circumstances. We realize that some families may not be able to afford to pay some or all of the costs associated with scouting. Our Pack leadership can help by locating experienced uniforms, or by offsetting or waiving some of the fees in these situations. Please feel free to contact Pack 614.
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