Lion (kindergarten program) is transitioning from a pilot to an official Cub Scout rank and program taking effect for the 2018-2019 program year. Recognizing the success of the national Lion pilot program, the Boy Scouts of America’s Board of Directors have approved integrating Lions into the Cub Scout program empowering chartered partners with packs to offer the experience to kindergarten-age children nationwide.
Research shows that childhood development accelerates around ages four and five, about the time youth begin formal education. To supplement the learning and growth boys experience at home and in an educational environment at that age, Boy Scouts of America has developed a pilot program for five-year-old kindergarteners called “Lion.”
The Lion program weaves traditional Scouting concepts of character development, leadership skills, personal fitness and citizenship into activities that are age-appropriate and fun for the children and their parents.
The activities introduce the family to Cub Scouting, and provide an exciting way for the kindergarteners to explore the world around them. The program will fuel their imagination, creativity and fun as they experience the growth Scouting can provide. Lions join with a parent or caring adult partner. Lions form dens of six to eight Lion pairs and have one den meeting and one outing per month. They wear a special t-shirt and have their own adventures. At the end of the Lion year, they graduate to Tiger and advance through Cub Scouting. Lions can be included in all pack meetings and pinewood derbies. Families can opt into fundraising activities.
The Lions uniform is the Lion t-shirt, hat, and belt, with a neckerchief and slide optional after the completion of the ‘Gizmos and Gadgets’ adventure. Lions do not earn the Bobcat rank first. Lions work on their Lion first. When they become a Tiger they then begin to work on their Bobcat. Lions can earn adventure loops, the neckerchief and the Lion rank patch, which is to be worn on the front upper left-hand side of the t-shirt. When Lions cross over into Tigers they may were the patch on the bottom of the left-hand side pocket.
As a Lion, your kindergartner will make friends, laugh loud, gain confidence, discover nature, and most of all…have fun! They’ll experience the Scouting concepts of character development, leadership, citizenship, and personal fitness through engaging and exciting adventures!! Kindergarteners will have a blast exploring the world around them in ways that fuel their imagination and creativity. Together, they’ll take their first steps down the path to success. Adventure awaits. Join today!
Learn More about the Lion Program Lion Adventures Overview Lion Resources