Scouts BSA Tenderfoot Rank

The Tenderfoot rank is one of the first steps in Scouts BSA. It helps Scouts begin learning the skills they need for outdoor adventures and troop life. As they work on this rank, Scouts start to feel more comfortable and confident in their new role. It also helps them understand how to be part of a team.

Scouts learn basic outdoor skills during this time. They practice setting up tents, cooking simple meals, and using first aid. These skills help them take care of themselves and others. They also learn to work with their patrol and support each other during activities.

Physical fitness is another part of this rank. Scouts track simple exercises and work to improve over time. This helps them build strength and healthy habits. It also teaches them how to set goals and stick with them.

Earning the Tenderfoot rank helps Scouts see their progress. They begin to take on more responsibility and feel proud of what they can do. These early skills prepare them for the next steps in Scouting.

Tenderfoot comes after the Scout Rank.

1. 1. Present yourself to your leader, prepared for an overnight camping trip. Show the personal and camping gear you will use. Show the right way to pack and carry it.
   2. Spend at least one night on a patrol or troop campout. Sleep in a tent you have helped pitch.
   3. Explain how you demonstrated the Outdoor Code and Leave No Trace on campouts or outings.
2. 1. On the campout, assist in preparing one of the meals. Tell why it is important for each patrol member to share in meal preparation and cleanup.
   2. While on a campout, demonstrate an appropriate method of safely cleaning items used to prepare, serve, and eat a meal.
   3. Explain the importance of eating together as a patrol.
3. 1. Demonstrate a practical use of the square knot.
   2. Demonstrate a practical use of two half-hitches.
   3. Demonstrate a practical use of the taut-line hitch.
   4. Demonstrate proper care, sharpening, and use of the knife, saw, and ax. Describe when each should be used.
4. 1. Show first aid for the following:
      • Simple cuts and scrapes
      • Blisters on the hand and foot
      • Minor (thermal/heat) burns or scalds (superficial, or first-degree)
      • Bites or stings of insects and ticks
      • Venomous snakebite
      • Nosebleed
      • Frostbite and sunburn
      • Choking
   2. Describe common poisonous or hazardous plants; identify any that grow in your local area or campsite location. Tell how to treat for exposure to them.
   3. Tell what you can do while on a campout or other outdoor activity to prevent or reduce the occurrence of injuries or exposure listed in Tenderfoot requirements 4a and 4b.
   4. Assemble a personal first-aid kit to carry with you on future campouts and hikes. Tell how each item in the kit would be used.
5. 1. Explain the importance of the buddy system as it relates to your personal safety on outings and where you live. Use the buddy system while on a troop or patrol outing.
   2. Describe what to do if you become lost on a hike or campout.
   3. Explain the rules of safe and responsible hiking, both on the highway and cross-country, during the day and at night.
   4. Explain why it is important to hike on trails or other durable surfaces, and give examples of durable surfaces you saw on your outing.
6. 1. Record your best in the following tests:
      • Push-ups (Record the number done correctly in 60 seconds.)
      • Sit-ups or curl-ups (Record the number done correctly in 60 seconds.)
      • Back-saver sit-and-reach (Record the distance stretched.)
        1-mile walk/run (Record the time.)
   2. Develop and describe a plan for improvement in each of the activities listed in Tenderfoot requirement 6a. Keep track of your activity for at least 30 days.
   3. Show improvement (of any degree) in each activity listed in Tenderfoot requirement 6a after practicing for 30 days.
      • Push-ups (Record the number done correctly in 60 seconds.)
      • Sit-ups or curl-ups (Record the number done correctly in 60 seconds.)
      • Back-saver sit-and-reach (Record the distance stretched.)
      • 1-mile walk/run (Record the time.)
7. 1. Demonstrate how to display, raise, lower, and fold the U.S. flag.
   2. Participate in a total of one hour of service in one or more service projects approved by your Scoutmaster. Explain how your service to others relates to the Scout slogan and Scout motto.
8. Describe the steps in Scouting’s Teaching EDGE method. Use the Teaching EDGE method to teach another person how to tie the square knot.
9. Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath and Scout Law. Tell how you have done your duty to God and how you have lived four different points of the Scout Law in your everyday life.
10. While working toward the Tenderfoot rank, and after completing Scout rank requirement 7, participate in a Scoutmaster conference.
11. Successfully complete your board of review for the Tenderfoot rank.

Download the Tenderfoot Rank Requirements

Tenderfoot Rank Workbook / Worksheet

Tenderfoot Rank Check Off Sheet

Help with Answers for Tenderfoot Rank Requirements

Find specific helps for some of the Tenderfoot rank requirements listed below. Some of these resources will just give the answers. Others will provide engaging ways for older Scouts to introduce these concepts to new Scouts.

• Requirement 1: Camping and Outdoor Ethics
• Requirement 2: Cooking
• Requirement 3: Knots and Tools
• Requirement 4: First Aid and Nature
• Requirement 5: Hiking
• Requirement 6: Fitness
• Requirement 7: Citizenship
• Requirement 8: Leadership
• Requirement 9: Scout Spirit
• Requirement 10: Scoutmaster Conference
• Requirement 11: Tenderfoot Board of Review

Requirement 1a: Prepare For Camp

What You Need To Do
Show that you are ready for a campout by packing your personal and camping gear. Explain what you brought and why.

Helpful Tips

• Use a checklist so you do not forget anything. Download a Camping Packing List.
• Pack only what you need. Do not bring extra items you will not use.
• Keep your gear organized. Use bags or stuff sacks to group items.
• Make sure you have basics like a sleeping bag, clothes, and rain gear.
• Show your leader your packed gear before the trip.

Leader Tips

• Provide a simple packing list such as this one.
• Check gear before the campout.
• Help Scouts learn to pack for themselves.

Requirement 1b: Participate In A Campout

What You Need To Do
Take part in a campout. Help set up your tent and sleep in it overnight.

Helpful Tips

• Work with your patrol to set up the campsite.
• Help pitch the tent. Learn where to place it and how to secure it.
• Keep your gear inside your tent and organized.
• Follow directions from your leaders during the campout.
• Do your part to help with setup and cleanup.
• Don’t forget to record your campout in your camping log so you can count it toward the Camping merit badge.

Leader Tips

• Guide Scouts through setting up tents.
• Encourage teamwork during camp setup.
• Make sure each Scout is involved and supported.

Requirement 1c: Outdoor Code

What You Need To Do
Explain the Outdoor Code and show how you follow it on a campout.

Helpful Tips

• Learn the Outdoor Code so you can explain it in your own words. For more details, visit The Outdoor Code.
• Keep your campsite clean. Pick up trash and pack out everything you bring.
• Be careful with fire. Use fire rings and make sure fires are fully out.
• Respect wildlife. Watch animals from a distance and do not feed them.
• Be considerate of others. Keep noise down and follow campsite rules.
• Show these actions during your campout, not just by talking about them.

Leader Tips

• Model good outdoor behavior during outings.
• Point out examples of the Outdoor Code in action.
• Encourage Scouts to practice, not just explain.

Requirement 2b: Clean Dishes And Cooking Gear

What You Need To Do
Show how to properly clean dishes and cooking gear on a campout.

Helpful Tips

• Scrape off leftover food into the trash before washing.
• Wash items in hot, soapy water. Scrub all surfaces well.
• Rinse with clean water to remove soap.
• Sanitize using a bleach solution or sanitizing rinse.
• Let items air dry. Do not dry with a dirty towel.
• Keep your wash area organized and follow your patrol’s system.

Leader Tips

• Demonstrate the wash, rinse, and sanitize method.
• Check that Scouts follow each step.
• Emphasize cleanliness and safety.

Requirement 2c: Eat Together As A Patrol

What You Need To Do
Explain why it is important for your patrol to eat together on a campout.

Helpful Tips

• Think about how meals bring people together. Eating together helps Scouts get to know each other.
• Notice how teamwork is used. Everyone helps cook, serve, and clean up.
• Use mealtime to talk. Share what you did during the day and plan what comes next.
• See how it builds trust. Working and eating together helps your patrol feel like a team.
• Be ready to give simple examples from your own campout.

Leader Tips

• Ask Scouts to share their mealtime experiences.
• Encourage patrols to eat and work together.
• Focus on teamwork and communication.

Requirement 3b: Two Half-Hitches

What You Need To Do
Show how to tie two half-hitches. Explain how it is used to secure a rope.

Helpful Tips

• Practice tying the knot until you can do it smoothly.
• See how to tie two half-hitches
• Wrap the rope around a post or tree, then tie two half-hitches to hold it in place.
• Use it to secure tent lines to stakes so your tent stays stable.
• Try it for a clothesline between trees or to tie gear in place.
• Make sure the knot is snug and does not slip.
• Check your knot by pulling on the rope to test it.

Leader Tips

• Show the knot step by step on a post or tree.
• Let Scouts practice with real camp uses like tent lines.
• Check that knots are tight and used correctly.

Requirement 3c: Taut-Line Hitch

What You Need To Do
Show how to tie a taut-line hitch. Explain how it is used to adjust a rope.

Helpful Tips

• Practice tying the knot until you can do it without help.
• See how to tie the taut-line hitch
• Use it on a line that needs to be tightened or loosened.
• Try it on tent guy lines. Slide the knot to adjust tension and keep the tent steady.
• Use it for tarps or clotheslines so you can make quick changes.
• Test your knot. It should hold when pulled but slide when adjusted.
• Practice using it during real camp setup.

Leader Tips

• Demonstrate how the knot slides and holds.
• Have Scouts use it on tents or tarps.
• Check that knots are tied correctly and adjust smoothly.

Requirement 4a: First Aid Basics

What You Need To Do
Show how to give first aid for common injuries like cuts, blisters, burns, bites, snakebite, nosebleeds, frostbite, sunburn, and choking.

Helpful Tips

• For cuts and scrapes, clean with soap and water, apply antiseptic, and cover with a bandage.
• For blisters, clean the area and cover it. Do not pop it.
• For burns, cool with running water and cover with clean gauze. Do not use ointments.
• For insect stings, remove the stinger, clean the area, and use a cold pack.
• For snakebites, keep the person calm, keep the area still, and get help right away.
• For nosebleeds, lean forward and pinch the nose until bleeding stops.
• For frostbite, warm the area slowly and do not rub it.
• For sunburn, cool the skin, drink water, and protect the area.
• For choking, encourage coughing. If needed, use back blows and abdominal thrusts.

Leader Tips

• Demonstrate each skill clearly.
• Let Scouts practice simple first aid steps.
• Focus on calm actions and getting help when needed.
• First aid baseball is a fun way to review first aid skills with Scouts.
• Try this method of making a fake wound on a “victim” or two.

Requirement 4b: Poisonous Plants

What You Need To Do
Identify common poisonous plants. Explain how to treat exposure to them.

Helpful Tips

• Learn how to spot poison ivy. Look for three leaves on one stem.
• Learn about Poison Ivy Fact and Fiction.
• Know other plants like poison oak and poison sumac. Notice leaf shape and where they grow.
• Avoid touching unknown plants. When in doubt, stay away.
• If exposed, wash skin right away with soap and water. This helps remove the oil.
• Use lotion or cream to reduce itching. Do not scratch the area.
• Stay out of the sun if the skin reacts, especially with plants like wild parsnip.
• Tell a leader or adult if the reaction is severe or spreading.

Leader Tips

• Show pictures or real examples when possible.
• Remind Scouts to avoid contact with unknown plants.
• Emphasize quick washing and getting help if needed.

Requirement 4c: Preventing Injuries

What You Need To Do
Explain how to prevent injuries and exposure to hazards on a campout.

Helpful Tips

• Wear the right clothing. Long sleeves, good shoes, and layers help protect you.
• Be careful with tools. Use knives, saws, and axes the right way. Keep your area clear.
• Prevent blisters. Wear well-fitting shoes and take breaks if your feet hurt.
• Be safe around fire and hot gear. Keep your distance and use proper handling.
• Avoid bugs and ticks. Use repellent and check your skin often.
• Watch where you walk. Stay on trails and avoid tall grass or brush.
• Protect yourself from weather. Use sunscreen, stay dry, and drink water.
• Chew food slowly to prevent choking. Pay attention while eating.
• Avoid poisonous plants. Learn to identify them and do not touch them.

Leader Tips

• Review safety habits before outings.
• Point out hazards during activities.
• Focus on prevention and awareness.

Requirement 4d: Personal First Aid Kit

What You Need To Do
Assemble a personal first-aid kit. Be able to explain how each item is used.

Helpful Tips

• Start with basic items. Include bandages, gauze, tape, and antiseptic wipes.
• Add tools like tweezers and scissors. These help with splinters and cutting supplies.
• Include items for common problems. Moleskin for blisters and an elastic wrap for sprains.
• Pack for comfort and care. Add ointment for cuts and cream for itching.
• Keep your kit organized. Use a small bag or container so items are easy to find.
• Learn what each item does. Be ready to explain how you would use it.
• Check your kit often. Replace used or missing items before outings.
• See more about what belongs in a first aid kit and how items are used.

Leader Tips

• Review each item and its use with Scouts.
• Encourage simple, practical kits.
• Check that Scouts can explain how to use their supplies.
• Play Kim’s Game with items for a first aid kit.

Requirement 5a: Buddy System

What You Need To Do
Explain the buddy system and show how to use it during activities.

Helpful Tips

• Stay with your buddy at all times. Do not go off alone.
• Check in with your buddy often. Make sure they are safe and doing well.
• Help each other. If one person needs help, the other can assist or get help.
• Stick together on hikes, at camp, and during activities.
• If you get separated, stop and try to find each other or go to a leader.
• Encourage your buddy. Work together and support each other.
• Learn more about the buddy system.

Leader Tips

• Pair Scouts thoughtfully.
• Remind Scouts to stay with their buddy.
• Reinforce the buddy system during all activities.

Requirement 5b: Lost

What You Need To Do
Explain what to do if you get lost. Describe the STOP method.

Helpful Tips

• Remember STOP. Stay Put, Think, Observe, Plan. Read more about the STOP acronym.
• Stay calm. Take a breath so you can think clearly.
• Stop moving. Staying in one place helps rescuers find you.
• Look around. Notice landmarks, sounds, or trails.
• Stay with your buddy if you have one. Do not separate.
• Signal for help. Use a whistle, bright clothing, or make noise.
• Keep yourself safe. Stay warm, drink water, and build shelter if needed.

Leader Tips

• Teach STOP in a simple and clear way.
• Practice scenarios during meetings or outings.
• Emphasize staying calm and staying put.

Requirement 5c: Safe Hiking

What You Need To Do
Explain the rules for safe hiking on roads and on trails, during the day and at night.

Helpful Tips

• On roads, walk facing traffic. Stay on the shoulder and away from cars.
• Wear bright clothing in the day. At night, use reflective gear or a flashlight.
• Cross streets at safe places. Look both ways before crossing.
• On trails, stay on marked paths. This helps you avoid getting lost.
• Hike with a buddy or group. Do not go alone.
• Carry a map and compass and know how to use them.
• Tell someone your plan before you go. Let them know when you will return.
• Bring water and wear the right clothing for the weather.
• At night, use a flashlight or headlamp. Stay close to your group and move carefully.

Leader Tips

• Review safety rules before hikes.
• Point out good habits during hikes.
• Keep the focus on awareness and staying together.

Requirement 6: Fitness

What You Need To Do
Measure your fitness in pushups, situps or curl-ups, stretching, and a one-mile run or walk. Practice for several weeks, then show improvement.

Helpful Tips

• Do a starting test. Record how many pushups and situps you can do, how far you can reach, and your mile time.
• Make a simple plan. Exercise several days each week and stick to it.
• Practice pushups. Keep your body straight and build up slowly.
• Work on situps or curl-ups. Do a few sets and increase over time.
• Stretch often. Reach slowly and hold each stretch. Do not rush.
• Run or walk regularly. Try to improve your time a little each week.
• Keep a record of your progress. Write down what you do and your results. Use a personal fitness log
• After a few weeks, test again and compare your results.

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts set simple and realistic plans.
• Encourage tracking progress over time.
• Focus on effort and improvement, not perfection.

Requirement 7a: U.S. Flag

What You Need To Do
Show how to display, raise, lower, and fold the U.S. flag.

Helpful Tips

• Learn how to display the flag. The blue field should be at the top left when hanging.
• Place the flag correctly with others. It should be higher or to the right.
• Raise the flag quickly and smoothly. Make sure it is attached properly first.
• Lower the flag slowly and with respect. Do not let it touch the ground.
• Have someone help catch and hold the flag as it comes down.
• Read more details about raising and lowering the US flag
• Read more details about displaying the US flag.
• Practice folding the flag. Fold it into a triangle so only the blue field shows.
• Work with a partner when folding. It is easier and keeps the flag neat.
• Read about folding the US flag, with diagrams.

Leader Tips

• Demonstrate each step clearly.
• Let Scouts practice raising, lowering, and folding.
• Emphasize respect and proper handling.

Requirement 9: Scout Spirit

What You Need To Do
Show Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath and Scout Law in your daily life.

Helpful Tips

• Think about the Scout Law each day. Try to be helpful, kind, and respectful.
• Follow the Scout Oath. Do your best to help others and make good choices.
• Show your actions. Help at home, be kind at school, and support others.
• Be consistent. Live these values all the time, not just at meetings.
• Think about your behavior. Ask yourself if your actions match the Oath and Law.
• Be ready to share a few examples of how you showed Scout spirit.
• For more information on what Scout spirit means, visit What Is Scout Spirit?.

Leader Tips

• Ask Scouts for real-life examples.
• Encourage effort and growth.
• Focus on living the values every day.

What is the Tenderfoot rank?

The Tenderfoot rank is one of the early ranks you earn in Scouts BSA. It comes after the Scout Rank. It is still the beginning of your Scouting journey and involves learning basic skills and knowledge.

What do I need to do to earn the Tenderfoot rank?

To earn the Tenderfoot rank, you need to complete various requirements. These include camping, first aid, fitness, knots, and demonstrating Scout spirit. You also need to have a Scoutmaster conference and a board of review.

How do I show Scout spirit for the Tenderfoot rank?

To show Scout spirit, live by the Scout Oath and Law in your daily life. Be trustworthy, helpful, friendly, and other points of the Scout Law. You can give examples of how you have done this in everyday situations.

What is a Scoutmaster conference for the Tenderfoot rank?

A Scoutmaster conference is a meeting with your Scoutmaster. You discuss what you have learned and your experiences. It helps you set goals and plan your next steps in Scouting.

What is a board of review for the Tenderfoot rank?

A board of review is a meeting with a group of adult leaders. They ask you questions about your Scouting experiences and what you have learned. It is the final step in earning the Tenderfoot rank.

Do I need to know how to tie knots for the Tenderfoot rank?

Yes, you need to know how to tie a square knot, two half-hitches, and a taut-line hitch. These knots are useful for camping and other Scouting activities.

How important is physical fitness for the Tenderfoot rank?

Physical fitness is important. You need to complete fitness tests like pushups, situps, and a 1-mile walk/run. You also need to create a plan to improve your fitness over 30 days and show progress.

What kind of service project is required for the Tenderfoot rank?

You need to participate in at least one hour of service in a project approved by your Scoutmaster. This can be anything that helps others, like a community clean-up or helping at a local event.

The Tenderfoot rank is an early milestone in a Scout’s journey. It marks the beginning of learning and adventure in Scouts BSA. To earn the Tenderfoot rank, Scouts learn basic skills that are the foundation for later ranks. These skills include camping, first aid, and knot tying. Each skill prepares Scouts for more advanced activities and challenges.

A key part of the Tenderfoot rank is learning to live by the Scout Oath and Law. Scouts practice being trustworthy, loyal, and helpful. They show Scout spirit by living these values every day. This helps Scouts grow into responsible and caring individuals.

Physical fitness is also important for the Tenderfoot rank. Scouts complete fitness tests like pushups, situps, and a 1-mile walk/run. They create a plan to improve their fitness and track their progress. This encourages healthy habits and perseverance.

The Tenderfoot rank also involves participating in a Scoutmaster conference and a board of review. These meetings help Scouts reflect on what they have learned and set goals for the future. By completing the Tenderfoot rank, Scouts build a strong foundation for their Scouting journey.