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Songs for Scouts

Songs are a big part of Scouting. They help bring energy to meetings, campouts, and ceremonies. When Scouts sing together, they feel connected. A simple song can lift everyone’s spirits and help even new Scouts feel welcome. Music creates moments that stay with them long after the meeting ends.

Songs also support the aims of Scouting. Many help build confidence because Scouts stand up and join in as a group. Some songs encourage movement, which is helpful for younger Scouts who need to stay active. Others calm a group after excitement and guide everyone back to focus.

Leaders use songs to shape the flow of a meeting. A quick song can settle noisy Scouts or get them ready for the next activity. Songs also help leaders teach skills in a simple way. They turn lessons into something fun and easy to remember. This keeps Scouts engaged while still learning important ideas.

Most of all, songs bring joy to the Scouting experience. Whether Scouts are gathered around a campfire, starting a pack meeting, or waiting for the next event, singing creates a shared moment. These small moments grow into traditions that last for years. Songs help make Scouting a place where friendships form, memories grow, and every Scout feels included.

What’s your favorite song for Scouts? Do you have the lyrics or a video of it? Contact me and I’ll share it here.

Harmony of Scouting: The Power of Songs

Songs bring Scouts of all ages together, making them feel connected and like they belong. They teach important skills like working as a team and being creative, and they capture the spirit of Scouting. Singing songs creates memories that last a lifetime and helps different generations of Scouts feel connected. Songs make a strong and fun Scouting experience that leaves a special place in every Scout’s heart.

Cub Scout Song Book

Are you looking for a printable songbook with classic songs for Scouts? Amy wrote me and asked me if I would post a Cub Scout song book she made to fill a ticket for her Woodbadge course.

My answer was yes!

Her song book can be found here. It contains a lot of classics your pack will enjoy singing also.

Digital Cub Scout Songbook

This page has 91 digital tracks for traditional songs from the official Cub Scout Songbook. So you can listen to the tunes to learn them.

Repeat After Me Songs for Scouts

Boom Chicka Boom

“Boom Chicka Boom” is a lively, interactive song for Cub Scouts, enhancing pack meetings or campfires. It’s sung in a call-and-response style, starting with a basic verse and then varying in volume and speed. It includes playful variations like Farm Style with “Moo Chicka Moo,” Car Style with “Vroom Shifta Vroom,” Janitor Style with “Broom Sweep-a Broom,” Astronaut Style with “Moon shoot the moon,” and Parent Style with “Boom GO TO YOUR ROOM.”

This activity encourages attentive listening, creativity, and is a fun way to engage Scouts in a dynamic, spirited environment.

Princess Pat

Princess Patricia, a member of the British royal family, inspired a Canadian infantry unit and designed their flag, the Ric-A-Dam-Do, featuring red, gold, and purple with the initials “VP.” The Princess Pat Song, a repeat-after-me song, playfully describes her adventures across the seas, carrying the Ric-A-Dam-Doo.

It includes actions like making a crown, sailing, and walking like an Egyptian. It humorously integrates fictional characters like Captain Jack, suggesting their ships would sink without the flag, and even references Captain Kirk and Mr. Spock, hinting that their ship flew because of the Ric-A-Dam-Doo.

Going on a Bear Hunt

“We’re Going on a Bear Hunt” is a traditional chant turned into a song, popularized by a children’s book. The song narrates a group of adventurers on a bear hunt, facing various obstacles like long grass, a river, and mud, with corresponding actions and sounds such as “Swishy swashy!” and “Splash splosh!” When they encounter a bear, they exclaim “Uh-oh!” and retreat.

The song is engaging and educational, teaching kids about storytelling, sequence, and encouraging physical activity and imagination. It’s a great interactive activity for Scouts, promoting creativity and motor skills, and can be adapted into a game using a stuffed bear.

Moose with the Juice

The Moose with the Juice, a folk classic, is beloved in Scout gatherings for its simplicity and adaptability. It centers on a moose humorously sipping juice in various imaginative ways, encouraging creativity and group participation. Its flexibility allows for adding original verses and motions, making it a fun and unifying activity for both Scouts and leaders.

Ideal for campfires or back-to-school programs, this song fosters camaraderie and is a go-to choice for a lively, engaging experience. It’s a timeless tune that brings smiles across generations, keeping the scouting spirit alive and vibrant.

Pizza Man

The Pizza Man is a campfire favorite known for its catchy tune and humorous lyrics. It’s a call-and-response song where each verse introduces a new occupation or action ending in “man,” accompanied by a relevant gesture, like holding a pizza or mimicking driving. The song builds as verses accumulate, repeating phrases and actions from earlier in the song. This structure not only makes it interactive but also sparks creativity, as participants can invent their own verses.

Ideal for various gatherings like camps, school events, or family get-togethers, the Pizza Man is a delightful way to engage a group, encouraging laughter and unity.

Action Songs for Scouts

The Little Green Frog

The Little Green Frog Song is a fun song for Cub Scout meetings and campfires. It tells the story of a frog with silly eyes. But then a big red truck comes along, and the frog gets squished. The ending makes kids laugh every time.

The motions are simple and easy to follow. Scouts open and close their hands for the frog’s eyes, honk like a truck driver, and squash their hands for the ending. The song is short and easy to teach. It helps keep younger Scouts involved and active.

Cool and Creamy

The Cool and Creamy song is a great addition to Scout events. It is song where one person asks a question, and another answers before getting sprayed with shaving cream. The verses can be changed, making it fun for different groups.

Scouts enjoy the surprise of getting sprayed, and the audience loves watching. It encourages confidence and makes performances exciting. Leaders should make sure it is done safely and in a place where cleanup is easy. This song brings fun to meetings, campfires, and other gatherings. It is a simple way to get everyone involved and having a good time.

The Milk Song

This campfire or pack meeting song is an entertaining way to promote healthy eating habits, particularly the consumption of milk, among scouts. It is performed like a rap, with participants mimicking the act of milking a cow during the “Moo moo moo moo” part. The catchy chorus emphasizes the preference for milk over other beverages like pop, tea, or juice, with a special mention of Wisconsin milk.

It features verses for each letter of “milk,” and participants softly and loudly make corresponding letter shapes with their fingers and arms. It’s a fun and interactive activity to encourage scouts to embrace the goodness of milk.

The Fast Food Song

The “Fast Food Song” is a lively action song enjoyed by Scouts. While it appears to promote fast-food chains like Pizza Hut, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and McDonald’s, it can also be a valuable tool for discussing healthy eating. By engaging in the song’s actions,

Scouts can transition into conversations about fast food and the importance of balanced nutrition. It provides an opportunity to explore the differences between fast food and healthier options, emphasizing the significance of vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. It doesn’t criticize fast food but encourages Scouts to think about their eating habits and make informed choices, promoting moderation and balanced diets.

Star Wars Song

This goes to the same tune as the Fast Food Song. This Star Wars-themed jingle, despite not being strictly scientific, can add excitement to science or space-themed meetings. Star Wars, a science fiction favorite, offers a fun way to engage participants. While singing, participants can act out Luke Skywalker’s lightsaber swings, C-3PO’s robot arms, and Darth Vader’s peekaboo mask motions.

It’s easy for scouts to join in. Incorporating elements from this beloved sci-fi franchise adds pizazz to science-themed gatherings, making them more enjoyable and memorable while blending entertainment with educational themes.

Bring Back My Bunny to Me

Bring Back My Bunny to Me is a Cub Scout song that uses a familiar tune. This helps Scouts join in right away. The words are simple and focus on a magic theme. Imaginary actions like pointing and waving a wand help keep Scouts engaged.

The song works well at meetings, campfires, and pack events. Leaders can use it as a gathering activity or a quick break. It fits well with the Abracadabra theme. Because it needs no supplies, it is easy to add to any Cub Scout program.

The Noble Captain Kirk

The Noble Captain Kirk Song is a simple action song that fits well in many Scout settings. It uses a tune that most people already know, so Scouts can join in right away. The beam-up and beam-down motions make the song active and keep attention steady. Leaders often use it during transitions or as a start-up activity.

The song also works well at campfires because it gives Scouts a chance to move and smile together. Many units add their own verses, which helps the song grow with the group. It is easy to teach, quick to use, and always a welcome part of a meeting.

My Turtle Swims Sideways

“My Turtle Swims Sideways” is a repeat-after-me song used in Scouting programs. Each verse compares the leader’s turtle or fish with someone else’s. The words are silly, and the motions are easy to do. That makes it a good song for Cub Scouts, but Scouts BSA can enjoy it too.

The song doesn’t follow a strict pattern, so leaders can skip or change verses to match their group. It works well at campfires, meetings, or just to pass the time. It is sung to the tune of Pomp and Circumstance.

Silly Songs for Scouts

Announcements Song

The Announcements Song is used in Scouting meetings to make announcements more interesting. It starts with “Announcements, announcements, announcements” followed by a verse set to a familiar tune. After the verse, an announcement is made, and the song is repeated before the next announcement.

Popular tunes include “A Farmer in the Dell” and “London Bridge Is Falling Down.” Scouts can also create their own verses. This song helps keep everyone engaged and makes meetings more enjoyable. It encourages creativity and participation, bringing a sense of community to the group.

The Twelve Days of Camping

“The Twelve Days of Camping” is a whimsical song suitable for both Christmas and camp-themed occasions. Set to the melody of “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” it humorously recounts gifts related to camping and the comical outcome.

From hammocks and bug spray to an abundance of snacks and pocketknives, each day adds a new item to the list. The humorous climax occurs on the twelfth day with the gift of twelve bandaids, suggesting that the previous days’ camping activities might have resulted in some mishaps. It blends the festive spirit of Christmas with the fun of camping, making it a playful and entertaining choice for various occasions.

911 Song

The 911 Song is a silly winter-themed song that many Scouts like to sing. It uses the tune of Jingle Bells and tells a story about skiing, crashing, and needing help. The song ends with a chorus about calling 911 and going to the hospital. It’s meant to be funny, and kids enjoy the surprise and excitement in the lyrics.

This song can also be used to help start a talk about emergency safety. Scout leaders or teachers might use it before a first aid lesson. It helps kids remember the 911 number and think about when to use it.

911 (Bicycle Version)

The 911 Song (Bicycle Version) is another silly song set to the tune of “Jingle Bells.” It tells a short story about crashing a bike and needing help. The words are funny, but the message is clear—ride safely and know how to get help.

This song is easy to teach and fun for Cub Scouts to sing. It fits well with a bike safety event. Use it at the end of a bike rodeo to review what they’ve learned in a lighthearted way. It will leave Scouts laughing and remembering the importance of safety.

Jaws Song (Baby Shark Song)

Jaws is a classic camp song that predates its pop culture counterpart, “Baby Shark.” Scouts have been singing this catchy tune for a while, and it’s a versatile campfire favorite with various adaptations. For added fun, participants can change their voices to mimic different characters while singing the verses.

It involves actions, making it engaging: forming a book with hands, imitating a shark fin, clapping like jaws, and acting as different family members like Mama, Daddy, Baby, and Grandpa Jaws. It also features a muscle man, a lady, and swimming motions. It playfully narrates a shark’s approach and a hero’s attempt to save someone, offering an entertaining twist on the classic tune.

Twinkie Song

“The Twinkie Song,” set to the tune of “Do a Deer” from The Sound of Music, adds a fun twist to the break. The lyrics playfully focus on Twinkies, singing about dough, the purchaser (Ray), the recipient (the singer), a long line of Twinkies, and the irresistible desire for a Twinkie.

It light-heartedly expresses a preference for Twinkies over tea, concluding with a humorous emphasis on the word “dough.” It’s a humorous and enjoyable tune that adds a touch of whimsy to scouting gatherings.

Ticks on a Toilet Seat

This is a short, repeat-after-me song that many Scouts learn at camp. It uses a familiar tune and simple lines. This helps everyone join in quickly. Leaders use it to fill quiet moments or to help the group settle in during a long day outdoors. It works well for mixed ages and can be sung almost anywhere.

The song often changes a little from place to place. Many units add the name of a Scout or leader to the final line. This keeps the group involved and adds a small touch of humor. Over time, the song becomes part of the shared life of the unit. It brings Scouts together in a simple and friendly way.

Bazooka Bubblegum

The Bazooka Bubble Gum Song has become a beloved scout favorite for its irresistible melody and easy-to-learn lyrics. What sets it apart is its unique “rap style” tune, which adds excitement and energy, making it particularly engaging for kids.

Scouts often request this tune during their scouting adventures due to its catchy, repetitive, and rhythmic nature. Beyond being fun, it serves as a bonding activity, bringing scouts closer and creating cherished memories.

Songs for Grace

Johnny Appleseed Grace

The Johnny Appleseed Grace is a beloved Cub Scout grace that emphasizes the importance of Duty to God in Scouting. This non-denominational grace is suitable for any meal and adds a musical touch to the tradition of saying grace.

Typically, the first verse is sung before meals, expressing gratitude for nature’s gifts like the sun, rain, and apple seeds. It conveys the idea that every seed grows into a tree, bearing apples to share with the world. It instills a sense of happiness and appreciation for God’s care, making it a meaningful and enjoyable way for Cub Scouts to express their gratitude and reverence before eating.

Addams Family Grace

The Addams Family Grace is a Scout tradition that aligns with the Scout value of being Reverent by incorporating grace before meals. It’s set to the tune of the Addams Family TV show theme, making it fun and memorable for Cub Scouts. This particular version is a short and straightforward one, making it easy for young scouts to memorize.

The lyrics express gratitude for the food and the presence of loved ones, including parents and the Lord. With snapping fingers as part of the rhythm, it adds a playful touch to the traditional act of saying grace, making it an engaging and meaningful practice for Scouts before their meals.

God Is Great Grace (Rock Around the Clock)

Singing grace is a meaningful way to emphasize the Scout value of being Reverent, especially during summer camp. At local Cub Scout camps, packs take turns leading grace in the dining hall, and teaching them grace as a song can encourage more participation.

This particular grace is set to the tune of “Rock Around the Clock” and is nondenominational, making it suitable for a diverse group. The lyrics express gratitude to God for the food and emphasize the practice of thanking Him throughout the day. Singing this grace adds a sense of unity and reverence to mealtime at camp, reinforcing the Scout’s commitment to being Reverent in a joyful way.

Edelweiss Grace

Reverence is a core Scout value, and grace before meals is a way to practice it. Grace songs are a suitable choice for Scouts with diverse faith backgrounds, promoting inclusivity. The Edelweiss Grace, sung to the tune of “Edelweiss” from the Sound of Music, exemplifies this practice.

It calls upon the Lord to bless friends and food, emphasizing peace and love. Its message is one of unity, growth, and the presence of the divine during mealtime. By using a familiar tune, it becomes accessible to Scouts, fostering a sense of reverence and togetherness before sharing a meal at camp or other Scout gatherings.

Auld Lang Syne Grace

The Auld Lang Syne Grace offers a heartfelt way to express gratitude before a meal, particularly suitable for Thanksgiving or Scout’s Own prayer services. Sung to the familiar tune of “Auld Lang Syne,” it acknowledges the bounty provided by the Lord and encourages continuous thanks and praise.

This grace reminds Scouts to keep God in their hearts and express appreciation throughout their days, fostering a sense of reverence and thankfulness during mealtime or other gatherings. Its timeless melody and meaningful lyrics make it a fitting choice for special occasions when Scout values like Reverence and Gratitude are highlighted.

Holiday Songs for Scouts

Carve the Pumpkin

Carve the Pumpkin is a short Halloween song set to the tune of Yankee Doodle. The words describe creating a pumpkin face and showing it to friends. Scouts enjoy the simple tune and quick pace. It works well at fall meetings, pack events, and pumpkin carving sessions. The song helps everyone relax and join in without pressure.

Leaders often use the song to start an activity or break up a busy meeting. The familiar melody helps new Scouts feel comfortable. The theme fits the season and adds a light moment to the day. The song becomes an easy way to bring the group together.

Thanksgiving Song

The Thanksgiving Song is a delightful addition to Cub Scout meetings, especially during the Thanksgiving season. Set to the tune of “Frère Jacques,” its simplicity and catchy melody make it perfect for young Scouts. The repetitive structure encourages everyone to participate and sing along easily. Introducing it not only adds a festive element to gatherings but also imparts the spirit of Thanksgiving.

Through its lyrics, Scouts are reminded of the significance of gratitude, family, and unity during this special holiday. It serves as a gentle way to instill these values and traditions in the hearts of young Scouts, making it a cherished part of Cub Scout meetings that promotes the essence of Thanksgiving.

Veterans Day Military Cadence

The Veterans Day Military Cadence is a marching song that helps Scouts honor those who serve in the military. It is a “repeat-after-me” song, where one person leads and the group repeats the lines. The song highlights all five branches of the military: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard. It also reminds Scouts of the freedoms veterans have protected for everyone.

This activity is easy to include in a Veterans Day event. Scouts can sing it while marching in place or during a ceremony. It teaches teamwork, respect, and gratitude. The cadence connects Scouts to military traditions in a meaningful way.

Other Classic Songs for Scouts

Scout Vespers

Scout Vespers is a simple song used to close the day in Scouting. It is often sung when the campfire is low or during an evening gathering. The words guide Scouts to think about honor, effort, and duty. The familiar tune helps everyone join in without worry.

The song works well for all ages. Younger Scouts learn the habit of reflection. Older Scouts often find deeper meaning in the same lines. Scout Vespers brings calm and focus at the end of activities. It leaves Scouts with something to think about as the day ends.

Fish and Chips and Vinegar

“Fish and Chips and Vinegar” is a valuable addition to Scouting activities as it combines fun and education. Lyrics like these play a vital role in teaching important lessons about outdoor fun and conservation. They are catchy and memorable, making it easier for Scouts to grasp concepts related to environmental awareness, such as littering, recycling, and wildlife habitat protection.

Singing together fosters camaraderie and unity among Scouts, emphasizing the power of collective action in making a positive impact on the environment. It embodies the theme of backyard fun and conservation, providing a valuable tool for teaching Scouts about the importance of caring for our surroundings and working together for a better world.

Auld Lang Syne

Auld Lang Syne is a traditional Scottish song used to mark the close of an event or season. The words encourage people to remember friendships and shared experiences. This message fits well with Scouting, where youth spend time learning, camping, and growing together. Many units use the song at the end of a campfire or special ceremony.

The melody is easy to learn, so Scouts of all ages can join in. Singing it together helps the group slow down and reflect before leaving. The song becomes a simple way to honor the past and look toward what comes next.

I Like Bananas, Coconuts, and Grapes

I Like Bananas, Coconuts, and Grapes is a simple action song that helps Scouts join together in a fun way. The words repeat, and the tune is easy. Each fruit has a matching motion, such as peeling a banana or cracking a coconut. These movements help children stay active and pay attention. The song works well in meetings, campfires, and short breaks when leaders need a quick activity.

The song also helps build confidence. Younger Scouts follow along, and older Scouts enjoy leading the motions. No music skills are needed, and the group can sing without instruments. Many packs use this song to bring energy into a meeting and help Scouts feel connected. It fits well with the spirit of Scouting and supports simple group fun.

Take Me Out to the Forest

“Take Me Out to the Forest” is a classic that’s perfect for campfires, hikes, or camping adventures. Set to the tune of “Take Me Out to the Ballgame,” it adds a playful twist to outdoor activities. It invites Scouts to embrace the wilderness, spot wildlife, and navigate using a compass while acknowledging the challenges of outdoor life.

It’s a lighthearted and memorable way to celebrate the joys and occasional discomforts of nature, making it a beloved part of Scouting traditions.

Rags

The Rags song tells a silly story about a dog who eats too much, doesn’t follow directions, and runs the wrong way. Even though he’s not a perfect pet, he’s loved anyway. The song uses fun motion words like zig and zig that are easy to act out.

It’s a good choice for Cub Scout meetings, especially for younger ranks. The tune is simple, and most Scouts can learn it quickly. No music or instruments are needed. Just sing and move. It’s a great way to add some fun to your meeting or campfire.

Songs to Help with Requirements

Trustworthy Tommy

“Trustworthy Tommy” is a valuable tool for Scouts of all ages to learn and remember the twelve points of the Scout Law while understanding their meanings. Set to the tune of “Yankee Doodle,” it introduces Trustworthy Tommy, a Scout who embodies the Scout Law principles.

It highlights each point, from being trustworthy and loyal to being courteous and reverent. By singing this, Scouts can reinforce their commitment to these values and internalize the essence of the Scout Law, promoting good character and ethical behavior within the scouting community.

Square Knot Song and Overhand Knot Song

The Square Knot Song and Overhand Knot Song are knot-tying tunes that help Scouts learn these essential knots in a fun way. Set to the tunes of “I’m a Little Teapot” and “Over There,” each song breaks down the steps of tying the knots with simple, catchy lyrics.

Scouts learn to tie a secure square knot and a useful overhand knot by following the lyrics. These songs are perfect for practicing knots at meetings or campouts, and they make learning knot-tying easy to remember.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of songs work well for Scouts?

Any song that is easy to learn and fun to sing works well. Short lines and simple actions help younger Scouts join in. Older Scouts enjoy songs that keep the group moving or make them laugh. The best songs bring everyone together.

When should leaders use songs in a meeting?

Songs can be used at many times. They help open a meeting with energy. They can settle the group between activities. They also work well when you need a quick break or want to bring the group back to focus. Songs fit into almost any part of a meeting.

Are songs good for large groups?

Yes, songs work very well for large groups. Simple words and motions help everyone take part. Singing together helps the group feel united. It also helps new Scouts feel included, even if they do not know many people yet.

Do songs help with learning?

Songs can help Scouts learn new skills and ideas. Some songs teach knots or safety habits. Others help Scouts remember the points of the Scout Law. When learning is put into a song, it becomes easy to remember and more fun to practice.

How can leaders teach a new song?

Leaders should keep it simple. Start with short lines. Repeat them slowly so Scouts can follow. Add motions if they help. Sing it once together, then repeat it again with a little more speed. Most Scouts learn quickly when the song is clear and easy to follow.

Singing Our Way Home

Songs help make Scouting feel warm and welcoming. They give every meeting and campout a sense of rhythm and shared joy. When Scouts sing together, they build friendships without even trying. A simple tune can turn a quiet moment into one filled with smiles. These small moments shape the Scouting journey in ways that stay with Scouts for years.

Songs also give leaders a helpful tool for guiding the group. A quick song can settle noise or lift energy. Songs fit into almost any part of a meeting and help keep Scouts engaged. They make teaching easier because ideas are easier to remember when set to music. This simple approach helps both new and experienced Scouts feel confident.

Families also enjoy hearing the songs their Scouts bring home. Many parents recognize familiar tunes from their own Scouting days. This strengthens the connection between generations and helps families get involved. When a Scout sings at home, it reminds them of good experiences shared with friends and leaders. These memories support growth and confidence.

In the end, songs are a gift within the Scouting program. They help build community, teach skills, and bring fun to simple moments. Whether used to start a meeting or end a long day at camp, they support the values Scouts learn. Songs encourage teamwork and joy, making the Scouting experience stronger for everyone.

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