Tic Tac Toe Game Project

The Tic Tac Toe Game Project is a good woodworking project for Bears, Webelos, and Arrow of Light Scouts. It fits well with the skills they learn in their ranks. Scouts use hand tools to make a game they can use or give as a gift. They learn to measure, saw, and drill. This helps them build confidence and feel proud of their work.

This project also teaches them to follow directions and work safely. Scouts take their time and go step by step. They use hand tools only, with help from adults when needed. It gives them a chance to practice being careful and doing a job well.

The game can be a great gift. December is a good time to make it for someone special. Scouts can paint the game pieces and add their own touch. It gives them a chance to think about others and do something kind.

This is a good project for a den or pack meeting. It works best with small groups and enough adults to help. Some steps may be hard for younger Scouts, but with help, they can do most of the work. Bears, Webelos, and Arrow of Light Scouts will enjoy making something useful and fun.

Tic Tac Toe has been around for a long time. People have been playing it for hundreds of years. Long ago, the ancient Romans played a game like it. They called it “terni lapilli.” They used stones instead of writing Xs and Os. The rules were a little different, but the goal was the same—get three in a row.

The version we play today became popular in the 1800s. It was easy to learn and didn’t need special equipment. All you need is a piece of paper and something to write with. That made it a favorite in classrooms, on napkins, and even scratched in the dirt.

The name “Tic Tac Toe” comes from an old game played with tapping sounds. But over time, the name stuck to the game of Xs and Os. In some places, it is called “Noughts and Crosses.”

Even though it’s simple, the game can still be fun and tricky. It teaches planning and thinking ahead. That’s one reason it’s stayed popular for so long. Now, Scouts can make their own wooden version and keep the tradition going.

This project is a great way for Scouts to learn real skills. They will measure, saw, drill, and paint. These are basic skills, but they are important. Scouts will see how to use hand tools safely. They will also learn how to follow steps in order.

Scouts will get to do real work with their hands. This helps them feel proud of what they make. They will see that they can build something useful. That builds confidence. It also helps them learn to be patient and careful.

They will also learn to take turns and help others. Some Scouts may need more help with sawing or drilling. Others may be faster at painting. Encourage them to work together and be kind. This builds teamwork.

This project also gives them a chance to make a gift. That teaches them to think about others. They can feel proud when they give something they made. That’s a great lesson in caring and sharing.

Materials and Equipment:

• Ruler
• Pencil
• ½ inch thick pine board
• Hand saw
• Hammer
• Nail
• Hand drill with 1/8 inch drill bit
• Black marker
• 10 golf tees
• Paint (2 different colors)
• Paintbrushes
• Sandpaper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Use the ruler and pencil to draw a 4-inch by 4-inch square on the pine board.
2. Cut out the square using the hand saw. This will be your game board.
3. Mark 3 rows of 3 dots on the board. Space them out so each dot is about 1 inch from the others.
4. Use the nail and hammer to make a small dent at each dot. This helps keep the drill steady.
5. Use the hand drill to drill a hole at each of the 9 dots. Do not drill all the way through the board.
6. Use the ruler and pencil to draw two lines down and two lines across to make the grid.
7. Trace the lines with a black marker.
8. Paint 5 golf tees one color and the other 5 a second color. Let them dry completely.
9. (Optional) Sand the edges of the board to make them smooth.

Safety Notes:

• Cub Scouts are not allowed to use power tools. Use only hand tools.
• An adult should always be present during cutting and drilling.
• Younger Scouts may need help with sawing or drilling.
• Wear safety goggles when drilling.

Project Tips and Variations:

• Use colored golf tees instead of painting them if you want a faster option.
• Let Scouts write their names on the back of the board.
• Add a small cloth bag to hold the golf tees.
• You can decorate the board with stickers or extra paint after the game is finished.

Click here for a printable copy of the Tic Tac Toe Game Project Directions

Projects for Scouts

If you liked the Tic Tac Toe Game project, you can find more ideas like this on my website. There are many simple and fun projects that work well for Cub Scouts. These can be used at den meetings, pack meetings, or at home with family. They help Scouts build skills and try something new.

Visit the Projects for Scouts page at this link. You’ll find woodworking projects, crafts, and other hands-on ideas. These are great for keeping Scouts busy and learning. Each project includes clear steps and a list of materials to help you get started.

Crafting Connections: The Importance of Creative Projects in Scouting

Q: What age group is this project best for?

This project works well for Bears, Webelos, and Arrow of Light Scouts. Younger Scouts may need more help with tools.

Can Scouts use power tools for this project?

No. The Guide to Safe Scouting does not allow Cub Scouts to use power tools. Use only hand tools.

How long does this project take?

Most Scouts can finish it in about 45 to 60 minutes. Drying time for paint may add extra time.

What kind of wood should I use?

A soft wood like pine works best. It is easy to saw and drill.

Can Scouts work on this in groups?

Yes. This is a good project for small groups with enough adults to help.

What if I don’t have golf tees?

You can use wooden pegs or dowels. Just make sure they fit in the holes.

Can we decorate the board?

Yes. Scouts can paint it or add stickers after the game is finished.

The Tic Tac Toe Game Project is a simple woodworking activity that helps Scouts learn basic skills. It uses hand tools like a saw, drill, and hammer. Scouts create a wooden game board and paint golf tees to use as pieces. This project fits well with Bear, Webelos, and Arrow of Light activities.

This is a good chance for Scouts to use real tools and build something they can use. It teaches them to measure, cut, and drill carefully. They also learn to follow steps and work safely. Adults give help when needed, but Scouts do most of the work.

The game makes a great gift. It can be used at home, taken on trips, or given to a friend or family member. Scouts will feel proud of what they made. It’s a fun way to build skills and share with others.

This project works well at a den or pack meeting. It’s best with small groups and enough adults to help. The materials are simple, and the steps are easy to follow. It’s a hands-on project that Scouts really enjoy.