Knot of the Week: Tiger Cub Den Leader Award

The diamond-shaped Tiger Cub award is usually the first patch a young Cub Scout receives. These first-graders search, discover, and share—hey, that’s the Tiger Cub motto—as they complete 15 fun-filled requirements for the orange and yellow award.

Similarly, the Tiger Cub Den Leader Award is often the first square knot a new Scouter earns. They earn it after completing tenure, training, and performance requirements.

Read how to earn this award in another edition of Knot of the Week.

The BSA has made getting started a breeze. Simply click here (PDF) for a wallet-size progress report that you can print out and keep handy throughout your time as a Tiger Cub den leader. As you complete requirements, check them off and have your pack committee chairperson or Cubmaster verify your completion. It’s that easy.

Other than serving as a registered Tiger Cub den leader for a year, you must complete the following training programs:

• “The New Tiger Cub Den Leader” Fast Start training
• Basic training for Tiger Cub den leaders
• Youth Protection Training (available here)

Also, you must participate in a Cub Scout leader pow wow or University of Scouting, or you must attend at least four roundtables.

Remaining requirements are based on your performance:

• Conduct a Tiger Cub roundup in which you recruit at least five new Tiger Cub boy/adult teams.
• Support the host team each month for a year.
• Have your Tiger Cub den attend at least three Cub Scout pack events per year.
• Graduate at least 60 percent of your Tiger Cubs into Cub Scouts.
• Report on the progress of your Tiger Cub den at 75 percent of the pack leader meetings.

Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of the requirements. Recipients of this knot still serve a vital role in the development of youth. By following the checklist, you'll make sure that your boys—and you—are on the right track.

Chime In: For many Scouters who are new to the program, the Tiger Cub Den Leader Award is their first knot. What was your first square knot?

Comments

[DWB]

Chiming in:
My first knot was the simple green one, at age 21 I had met all the training and three years' performance to receive the Scouter's Award and square knot...it after more than 50 years and a bunch more, it will probably be my last, this time as Venturing Associate Advisor.

[DAR]

First knot for me was the arrow of light. I would imagine that most leaders that had been youth earn this one first (or the youth religious award or eagle award).