Webelos Den Leader Guide

Being a Webelos den leader is an exciting and rewarding job. At this stage, Cub Scouts are growing more independent and ready for new challenges. They are preparing for the transition to Scouts BSA, where they will take on more responsibility and develop stronger outdoor skills. Your role is to guide them through this process, helping them gain confidence and learn new things in a fun and engaging way.

The Webelos program is designed for fourth graders. It introduces them to skills they will use as they continue their scouting journey. The program includes a mix of outdoor activities, personal fitness, citizenship, and teamwork. Webelos learn important life skills while having fun with their friends. They take on more responsibility in their den and work toward earning their Webelos rank by completing required and elective adventures.

Unlike in the past, Webelos and Arrow of Light are now separate programs. This means you can focus entirely on helping your den complete the Webelos adventures without worrying about Arrow of Light requirements. Your goal is to give them a great Cub Scout experience while preparing them for the next step in scouting.

Planning and organization will help your den succeed. You will lead activities that challenge them while keeping things fun and engaging. Webelos are old enough to take on more responsibility, so encourage them to be active participants in meetings and outings. They should start making decisions as a group and working together as a team.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the basics of planning your Webelos den meetings, choosing required and elective adventures, keeping your Scouts engaged, and making meetings run smoothly. You’ll also find links to helpful resources, including detailed meeting plans and activity ideas. Leading a Webelos den is a great way to help these Scouts grow and prepare for their future in scouting. Let’s get started!

Good planning makes your job as a den leader much easier. A well-run den meeting keeps Scouts engaged, prevents chaos, and makes learning fun. If you don’t have a plan, you’ll spend your meeting trying to figure out what to do next while the Scouts lose focus. Taking the time to prepare will help your meetings run smoothly and keep everyone involved.

One place to start is with den meeting plans. These plans are designed to guide you through each meeting step by step. They include activities, discussions, and games that match the Webelos adventures. Read through the meeting plan ahead of time so you know what materials you need. Being prepared will help you feel confident and ready to lead. You can also create your own den meeting plans.

A good meeting has a mix of activities. Scouts this age need movement, so alternate between quiet tasks like discussions or crafts and more active games or hands-on projects. The den meeting plans are designed this way, so follow their structure. If a meeting includes a lot of sitting and listening, add in a quick game or physical activity to keep the energy up.

Encourage Scouts to take part in physical activity. Many Webelos adventures include fitness requirements, so use den meetings as a chance to work on those. Games, hikes, or simple exercises can help meet these requirements while keeping the Scouts active and engaged. A little movement goes a long way in keeping their attention.

Make sure meetings are fun and welcoming. Cub Scouts should feel emotionally secure and supported. Avoid activities that might embarrass or single out a Scout in a negative way. Praise effort and participation, and encourage teamwork. A positive environment helps Scouts build confidence and enjoy being part of the den.

Track advancement carefully. Most requirements should be completed during den meetings, so make sure Scouts get credit for what they’ve done. Use Scoutbook or another tracking method to record progress and communicate with parents. If a Scout misses a meeting, work with the family to help them catch up. Recognizing progress at meetings with small awards or stickers can also keep Scouts motivated.

Your planning should also include making pack meetings special. Work with the Cubmaster and other den leaders to create meaningful advancement ceremonies. These moments give Scouts a sense of accomplishment and encourage them to keep working toward their goals. Involve families in these celebrations so they can see their Scout’s progress.

By planning ahead, keeping meetings balanced and active, and making advancement a priority, you can create a great experience for your den. The time you spend preparing now will pay off with smooth, fun, and successful meetings.

As a den leader, your Webelos Scouts will complete a series of adventures to earn their Webelos badge. These adventures introduce them to new skills, build confidence, and prepare them for Scouts BSA. Some adventures are required, while others are electives that let your den explore different interests.

The first adventure Webelos complete is Bobcat. This adventure helps them learn the basics of Scouting, including the Scout Oath and Law. It also teaches teamwork and sets the tone for the rest of their Webelos experience. After Bobcat, Scouts work on five more required adventures: My Community, My Family, My Safety, Stronger, Faster, Higher, and Webelos Walkabout. These cover topics like citizenship, fitness, outdoor skills, and personal responsibility.

More information on the required adventures:

• Bobcat
• My Community
• My Family
• My Safety
• Stronger, Faster, Higher
• Webelos Walkabout

In addition to the required adventures, Webelos need to complete at least two elective adventures. These electives let them dive deeper into subjects that interest them. Some focus on outdoor activities, like Paddle Onward and Catch the Big One. Others introduce useful skills, like Chef’s Knife or Modular Design. As a den leader, you can help your Scouts choose electives that fit your group’s interests and resources.

See more information about specific electives:

• Aquanaut
• Art Explosion
• Aware and Care
• Build It
• Catch the Big One
• Champions for Nature
• Chef’s Knife
• Earth Rocks!
• Let’s Camp
• Math on the Trail
• Modular Design
• Paddle Onward
• Pedal Away
• Race Time
• Summertime Fun
• Tech on the Trail
• Yo-yo
• Archery
• BB Guns
• Slingshot

Den meetings are where most adventure requirements are completed. Use the den meeting plans to guide your Scouts through each step. Make sure they understand what they are learning and how it connects to real life. Keep the activities hands-on and fun, so Scouts stay engaged. If a Scout misses a meeting, work with their family to help them catch up.

Adventures should be exciting and meaningful. When planning, think about ways to bring the lessons to life. Invite guest speakers, go on short outings, or do service projects. Keep the energy up and make every meeting something Scouts look forward to. The more fun they have, the more they will learn and grow.

As a den leader, your den meeting plans are your best tool for keeping Scouts engaged and on track. These plans are designed to make meetings fun, structured, and productive. They guide you through each adventure, step by step, so your Webelos can complete their requirements while having a great time. If you follow the plans, your Scouts will make steady progress toward their Webelos badge without feeling like they’re just checking off a list.

Here are some den meeting plans I have created:

• Bobcat Den Meeting Plan
• My Community Den Meeting Plan
• My Family Den Meeting Plan
• My Safety Den Meeting Plan
• Stronger, Faster, Higher Den Meeting Plan
• Webelos Walkabout Den Meeting Plan

Check back later for den meeting plans for elective adventures. These will help you mix in activities that match your den’s interests. By using the meeting plans and adding well-planned outings, you will create a great Webelos experience that keeps Scouts excited about coming back each week.

Each Webelos den meeting lasts between 60 and 90 minutes and includes a variety of activities. Meetings start with a gathering activity to keep Scouts busy as they arrive. The main part of the meeting includes a mix of games, discussions, and creative activities to match the adventure being worked on. A snack gives Scouts time to relax and bond, and the meeting ends with a closing that connects everything to the Scout Law. Keeping this balance ensures that meetings are fun, engaging, and meaningful.

Field trips are a great way to bring adventures to life. Plan your meetings so that Scouts learn the basics in a regular den meeting, then go on a field trip to see what they learned in action. For example, after working on My Community, visit a local government office or meet an elected official. After completing Chef’s Knife, take a trip to a restaurant kitchen to see real chefs at work. These outings give Scouts hands-on experiences and make learning more exciting.

Planning ahead is key for successful outings. If your trip requires a reservation, contact the location well in advance. Work with parents to arrange transportation and make sure everyone knows the plan. Have a backup activity in case something changes at the last minute. Field trips should be fun but also well-organized, so Scouts stay safe and get the most out of the experience.

Webelos Scouts are full of energy and curiosity. As a den leader, your job is to keep that energy focused in a positive way. They want to explore, learn new things, and prove what they can do. At the same time, they are still learning how to work as a team and manage their emotions. The key to success is making meetings active, interesting, and structured.

Start by giving them plenty of opportunities to move. Sitting still for long periods is hard for kids this age. Plan den meetings with a mix of activities—some quiet and some active. Hands-on projects, games, and outdoor activities keep their attention better than long discussions. If they seem restless, take a short break for a quick game or a physical challenge. A little movement can refocus the group.

Clear expectations also help keep behavior on track. During the Bobcat adventure, work with your Scouts to create a den code of conduct. Keep it simple and positive, focusing on respect, teamwork, and having fun together. Review the rules as needed and gently remind them when they forget. Recognizing good behavior with a smile, a thumbs-up, or a fun reward works better than constant corrections.

Listening to Scouts and giving them choices makes a big difference. Let them help decide which elective adventures to work on. Ask their opinions on activities. If they feel like they have a say in what the den does, they will be more interested and cooperative. They also need encouragement. Recognize effort, not just success. A simple “Great job sticking with that!” helps build confidence and keeps them motivated.

If behavior problems come up, stay calm and address them right away. Redirect rather than punish. If a Scout is disrupting the group, give them a task to refocus their energy. If a problem keeps happening, talk to the Scout privately to understand what’s going on. Every child is different, and some may need extra guidance. The goal is to help them learn, not to make them feel bad.

Above all, make meetings fun and welcoming. Webelos should feel excited to come to den meetings and proud of what they accomplish. Keep things positive, let them be active, and show them that you enjoy being their leader. When they see that you are having fun, they will too.

Being a den leader is fun and rewarding, but it also takes preparation and teamwork. Webelos Scouts are full of energy, curiosity, and enthusiasm, so having a good plan and using the right resources will make your job much easier. Here are some helpful hints to keep your den running smoothly and your Scouts engaged.

Find a Mentor
One of the best ways to learn is by talking to experienced leaders. Your Cubmaster, assistant Cubmasters, and other den leaders can offer great advice. If possible, connect with a leader who has already led a Webelos den. They can share what worked for them, what didn’t, and how to make meetings fun and effective. Learning from others will save you time and help you avoid common mistakes.

Get Trained
Take advantage of BSA training opportunities. Start with the online training for den leaders, available through my.scouting.org. Attend leader meetings, training events, and Cub Scout roundtables. These sessions are full of useful tips and ideas. Training helps you understand the program, plan better meetings, and feel more confident leading your den.

Keep It Simple, Make It Fun
The best den meetings are simple and engaging. Focus on hands-on activities, games, and teamwork. If a meeting starts to feel like school, the Scouts will lose interest. Use the den meeting plans as a guide, but don’t be afraid to adjust if needed. Keep activities moving, and make sure every Scout has a chance to participate.

Go to Cub Scout Roundtable
Roundtable meetings are held by your local district and are a great place to connect with other leaders. You’ll get ideas for activities, learn about upcoming events, and get answers to any questions you have. Plus, you’ll meet other leaders who can offer support and advice.

Engage the Parents
Webelos Scouts are getting more independent, but they still need family support. Make sure parents know what their Scouts are working on and how they can help at home. Some adventures, like the Duty to God requirement, are completed with the family. Keep parents involved by sharing updates, asking for help with meetings, and encouraging them to come on outings.

Do Your Best
Remember that you don’t have to be perfect. Scouting is about doing your best, not being perfect. Some meetings will go smoothly, and some will be a little chaotic—that’s okay. If something doesn’t work, adjust and try again. The most important thing is that your Scouts are learning, having fun, and building friendships.

Utilize Online Resources
There are many online tools to help den leaders. Scoutbook is a great way to track advancement and communicate with parents. The BSA website has training materials and program updates. Many packs and districts have social media pages where leaders share ideas and resources. Use these tools to stay informed and organized.

Keep It Secret, Make It Fail
If you don’t plan ahead, your meeting might not go as expected. Webelos Scouts notice when things aren’t organized, and if they sense confusion, they’ll lose focus. Read through the den meeting plans ahead of time, gather materials, and think about how you’ll transition from one activity to the next. A little preparation goes a long way in making meetings run smoothly.

Have Fun!
The most important thing is to enjoy the experience. If you’re having fun, your Scouts will too. Laugh, be flexible, and celebrate the little moments. Webelos is a great age for adventure and exploration, and you get to be part of that journey. Make the most of it, and enjoy the ride!

Webelos Badge for Cub Scouts

The Webelos rank helps fourth-grade Cub Scouts build skills they will use in Scouts BSA. Webelos work on six required adventures: Bobcat, My Community, My Family, My Safety, Stronger, Faster, Higher, and Webelos Walkabout. These adventures teach character, leadership, outdoor skills, fitness, and safety. Scouts also complete at least two elective adventures, choosing from topics like science, cooking, technology, and outdoor activities.

As a den leader, your job is to guide Scouts through these adventures in a fun and engaging way. Use den meeting plans to keep meetings structured and exciting. Hands-on activities, games, and outings will help Scouts learn while having fun. Encourage independence and teamwork, and make sure parents stay involved. With good planning, you can help your Scouts gain confidence and get ready for the next step in their scouting journey.

See more resources for the Webelos Badge for Cub Scouts here.

Welcome New Den Leaders

Scout Moms, Dads, and Leaders Facebook group

Ask Scouter Mom a question or share your ideas with others

Printable Webelos Cub Scout requirements

Printable checkoff sheet for the Webelos Badge (for den or individual use)

How often should my Webelos den meet?

Most dens meet one to three times a month. Meetings usually last 60 to 90 minutes. You can also plan special outings or field trips to make learning more hands-on.

Do I have to follow the den meeting plans exactly?

No, the plans are a guide or make your own plans. Just make sure you cover the required adventure requirements. Keep meetings balanced with a mix of activities, discussions, and games.

How do I keep Webelos engaged?

Keep meetings active and fun. Alternate between quiet and active tasks. Use hands-on activities instead of long discussions. Let Scouts make choices, like picking elective adventures. Praise effort and keep things positive.

What if a Scout misses a meeting?

Work with their family to help them catch up. Share what they missed and suggest ways they can complete the requirements at home.

What role do parents play in Webelos?

Parents should support their Scout by helping with home-based activities, especially the Duty to God adventure. They can also help at meetings, drive for outings, and encourage their Scout to stay active in the den.

Can we work on more than one adventure at a time?

Yes, you can mix in parts of different adventures, especially if they fit together. Just make sure Scouts complete all requirements for each adventure before moving on.

Should we plan field trips?

Yes! Field trips make learning more exciting. Try to match them with an adventure. For example, after working on My Community, visit a local government office. Plan outings in advance and make sure parents know the details.

What do I do if a Scout is disruptive?

Set clear expectations at the start of the year. If a Scout is acting out, redirect them to another task. If behavior continues to be a problem, talk to them privately and involve their parents if needed.

What if I feel overwhelmed?

You are not alone! Find a mentor, ask other leaders for advice, and attend Cub Scout roundtable meetings. Use the resources available, and remember—just do your best!

Being a Webelos den leader is a fun and rewarding job. You get to help Scouts learn new skills, gain confidence, and prepare for the next step in Scouting. With the right planning, a good attitude, and a little flexibility, you can create a great experience for your den.

Use my den meeting plans or create your own. Keep things active and hands-on to keep Scouts engaged. Field trips, games, and teamwork will help them stay excited about learning. Involve parents and use available resources to make your job easier.

Most of all, have fun. Webelos is a time of adventure and discovery. You get to be part of that journey. Your enthusiasm and encouragement will make a lasting impact. So enjoy the experience, celebrate small successes, and remember—you’ve got this!