Arrow of Light Den Leader Guide

Welcome to the Arrow of Light program! This is the last rank a Cub Scout can earn before moving on to Scouts BSA. It’s an exciting time, filled with new skills, outdoor adventures, and leadership opportunities. As a den leader, you have an important job—helping these Scouts prepare for the next step in their scouting journey.

Fifth grade is a big year for Cub Scouts. They are ready for more responsibility, eager for challenges, and starting to think like Scouts BSA members. The Arrow of Light program is designed to build on everything they’ve learned so far while giving them a taste of what’s ahead. They’ll work on skills like camping, first aid, and citizenship. They’ll also practice leadership, teamwork, and self-reliance.

Arrow of Light has its own set of required and elective adventures, separate from Webelos. This gives you flexibility in planning activities that match your Scouts’ interests and abilities. Whether they are learning about nature, testing their engineering skills, or developing their fitness, they’ll find something to challenge and inspire them.

Your role as a den leader is to guide, encourage, and keep things fun. This guide will help you plan your meetings, understand the requirements, and make the most of your time with your den. Let’s get started on this adventure together!

Planning is the key to a great year in your Arrow of Light den. Without a solid plan, meetings can feel rushed, and important requirements might get missed. A well-thought-out plan helps you stay on track, keeps Scouts engaged, and ensures everyone has a chance to earn their Arrow of Light rank.

Start by looking at the required adventures. These six adventures must be completed for the rank. Then, choose at least two elective adventures. Talk to your Cub Scouts about their interests. Let them have a say in which electives your den will work on. This keeps them excited and involved.

Once you have your list of adventures, map them out for the year. Consider your meeting schedule, the seasons, and any special events. Outdoor Adventurer, for example, is best done when the weather is nice. First Aid might be a good choice for winter meetings indoors. Spread out the activities so the workload is balanced.

After making your plan, share it with your Cubmaster and other leaders. They can help spot any issues and offer advice. If your pack plans big events, like a campout or service project, coordinate your schedule so your Scouts can complete requirements at those events.

Be flexible. Even the best plans need adjustments. A field trip might fall through, or a Scout might miss an important meeting. Have backup activities and ways for Scouts to catch up. If something isn’t working, tweak it. It’s better to adjust than to keep pushing through a plan that isn’t fun or effective.

Keep families in the loop. Let them know what adventures you’re working on and if there are activities they need to help with at home. The Duty to God adventure, for example, is often completed with families. Clear communication makes things easier for everyone.

Finally, think about how your den will celebrate earning the Arrow of Light. This is a big milestone, and many packs hold a special ceremony. Work with your pack leadership to plan a meaningful recognition. Whether it’s a simple badge presentation or a full crossover ceremony to Scouts BSA, make sure it feels special.

With a solid plan, your den will have a fun, organized, and successful year. And when your Cub Scouts finally receive their Arrow of Light, you’ll know all the effort was worth it!

The Arrow of Light program is built around adventures. These are hands-on activities that teach important skills and values. Some adventures are required for rank advancement, while others are electives that add variety and fun. Each adventure helps Cub Scouts grow in character, confidence, and ability.

The required adventures cover key scouting skills. Bobcat introduces Scouts to the patrol method and the basics of Scouts BSA. Citizenship focuses on community service and responsibility. Duty to God encourages Scouts to reflect on their beliefs and values. First Aid teaches emergency skills that could save lives. Outdoor Adventurer prepares Scouts for camping and outdoor activities. Personal Fitness promotes healthy habits and staying active. These adventures help Scouts develop responsibility, teamwork, and practical life skills.

More information on the required adventures:

• Bobcat
• Citizenship
• Duty to God
• First Aid
• Outdoor Adventurer
• Personal Fitness

Elective adventures let Scouts explore their interests. Some are focused on outdoor fun, like Fishing, Cycling, and Swimming. Others build useful skills, like Knife Safety, Engineer, and High Tech Outdoors. Some, like Into the Wild and Into the Woods, help Scouts connect with nature. Electives give Scouts a chance to try new things and discover what they enjoy. Each den chooses at least two elective adventures to complete, but Scouts can do more on their own if they want.

See more information about specific electives:

• Champions for Nature
• Cycling
• Engineer
• Estimations
• Fishing
• High Tech Outdoors
• Into the Wild
• Into the Woods
• Knife Safety
• Paddle Craft
• Race Time
• Summertime Fun
• Swimming
• Archery
• BB Guns
• Slingshot

When planning your den’s adventures, think about the seasons, available resources, and your Scouts’ interests. Outdoor activities are best in good weather. Hands-on activities work well for this age group. Keep things active and engaging. Let Scouts take the lead where possible, whether it’s planning a service project or cooking a meal. A mix of required and elective adventures throughout the year keeps the program exciting.

Every adventure helps prepare Cub Scouts for the transition to Scouts BSA. The skills they learn now—like leadership, problem-solving, and outdoor readiness—will serve them well in the future. Keep the focus on learning by doing, and make sure Scouts have fun along the way.

A well-planned den meeting makes all the difference. It keeps Cub Scouts engaged, helps them complete requirements, and makes scouting fun. As a den leader, your job is to create meetings that are organized, active, and interesting. The den meeting plans will guide you step by step through each adventure, making sure your Scouts stay on track to earn their Arrow of Light rank.

Here are some den meeting plans I have created:

• Bobcat Den Meeting Plan
• Citizenship Den Meeting Plan
• Duty to God Den Meeting Plan
• First Aid Den Meeting Plan
• Outdoor Adventurer Den Meeting Plan
• Personal Fitness Den Meeting Plan

As you can see, I have already provided den meeting plans for the required adventures. Check back later for elective adventure plans. In the meantime, mix in plenty of outdoor activities and hands-on experiences.

For Arrow of Light Scouts, I usually plan meetings to last between 60 and 90 minutes. This allows time for a gathering activity, a mix of hands-on learning, games, and discussions, plus a short snack break for Scouts to relax and bond. A strong closing, tied to the Scout Law, reinforces what they’ve learned. Keeping this structure makes meetings run smoothly and keeps Scouts focused.

Den outings are also important. Field trips bring the adventures to life. For example, after working on the Citizenship adventure, you might visit a local government office or attend a community event. After First Aid, you could tour a fire station. Seeing skills in action helps Scouts understand why what they’re learning matters. When planning outings, coordinate with your destination, arrange transportation, and make sure parents know the details well in advance.

Keep things flexible, be ready to adjust when needed, and most of all, make it fun. A great den meeting keeps Scouts excited to come back for the next one!

Fifth graders are full of energy, curiosity, and opinions. They are starting to think more like teenagers, but they still need structure, guidance, and plenty of hands-on activities. As a den leader, your challenge is to keep them engaged while teaching them important skills. A mix of movement, teamwork, and responsibility will help make your meetings fun and productive.

One of the best ways to keep Cub Scouts interested is to get them moving. Sitting still for too long will lead to distractions and restlessness. Start meetings with an active game or challenge. If you need to discuss something, break it up with hands-on activities. Let Scouts build, create, or demonstrate instead of just listening. This keeps them focused and helps them learn by doing.

Fifth graders also crave independence and responsibility. Give them leadership roles within the den. Let them take turns leading a game, helping with setup, or demonstrating skills. When Scouts feel like they have a say in what happens, they are more invested. They also need clear expectations. Set behavior guidelines at the beginning of the year and involve them in creating a den code of conduct. This is part of the Bobcat adventure. When they help make the rules, they are more likely to follow them.

Social connections are important at this age. Fifth graders care about friendships and want to fit in. Encourage teamwork and cooperation rather than competition. Pair Scouts up for activities so they can learn to work together. If conflicts arise, guide them in solving problems respectfully. Praise effort and improvement rather than just results. A supportive and encouraging den environment will help all Scouts feel included.

Finally, remember that fifth graders still need positive reinforcement. They want to be seen as capable but may be hesitant to try new things if they fear failure. A little encouragement goes a long way. Recognize their efforts, even if the results aren’t perfect. Keep things fun, challenge them appropriately, and give them space to grow. With the right balance of structure, activity, and leadership, your den will thrive.

Being a den leader is a rewarding experience, but it takes preparation and patience. A little planning and a positive attitude will go a long way. Here are some simple ways to make your year smooth and enjoyable.

• Find a mentor. Experienced den leaders can share tips and advice. Ask your Cubmaster or other den leaders for guidance.
• Get trained. Take advantage of online and in-person leader training. It will help you feel confident and prepared.
• Keep it simple, make it fun. The best meetings are easy to run and full of hands-on activities. Keep talking time short and action time long.
• Go to Cub Scout roundtable. This is a great place to get ideas, ask questions, and connect with other den leaders.
• Engage the parents. Parents should be involved, whether helping at meetings, leading activities, or coordinating outings. Don’t try to do everything alone.
• Do your best. Just like the Cub Scouts, you don’t have to be perfect. Focus on making meetings fun and meaningful.
• Utilize online resources. There are many websites and forums full of helpful ideas, printables, and activity suggestions.
• Keep it secret, make it fail. If a new activity flops, just laugh and move on. Cub Scouts won’t remember the mistakes, but they will remember the fun.
• Have fun! Your enthusiasm sets the tone. If you’re having fun, the Scouts will too.

Plan your meetings ahead of time. Read through the den meeting plans, gather materials, and think about how each activity will flow. Keep a balance between active games and quieter tasks. A well-prepared meeting runs more smoothly and keeps Scouts engaged.

Encourage Arrow of Light Scouts to take ownership of their den. Let them make decisions, lead activities, and take on small responsibilities. This builds confidence and teamwork and prepares them to move on to Scouts BSA. A Scout-led den is a happy den.

Most importantly, enjoy the experience. Being a den leader gives you the chance to make a real impact. You are helping shape future leaders, teaching valuable skills, and creating great memories. Keep it fun, stay flexible, and enjoy the adventure!

Arrow of Light Badge for Cub Scouts

The Arrow of Light rank is the final step in Cub Scouting and an important milestone for fifth graders. It helps Cub Scouts develop leadership, outdoor skills, and responsibility as they prepare for Scouts BSA. The required adventures focus on teamwork, citizenship, personal fitness, and first aid. Scouts also learn important outdoor skills and the values of duty to God. A den leader plays a key role in guiding Scouts through these experiences.

Elective adventures let Scouts explore their interests, from engineering and technology to nature and outdoor skills. A den leader can keep meetings fun and engaging by choosing activities that fit the Scouts’ interests. Field trips and hands-on learning make the experience even better. Earning the Arrow of Light rank is a big achievement that prepares Cub Scouts for the next stage of their scouting journey. The skills they gain will help them as they continue to grow and learn.

Learn more about the individual Arrow of Light adventures here.

Welcome New Den Leaders

Scout Moms, Dads, and Leaders Facebook group

Ask Scouter Mom a question or share your ideas with others

Printable Arrow of Light Cub Scout requirements

Printable checkoff sheet for the Arrow of Light Rank (for den or individual use)

How often should my den meet?

Most Arrow of Light dens meet once or twice a month for den meetings, plus one outing or special activity. Some dens meet weekly. Find a schedule that works for your Scouts and families.

How long should a den meeting last?

Meetings should be 60 to 90 minutes. This allows enough time for activities, games, and discussions without losing Scouts’ attention.

How do I keep Scouts engaged during meetings?

Mix in active games, hands-on activities, and teamwork. Keep talking time short. Let Scouts take on leadership roles and make decisions when possible.

What do I do if a Scout misses a meeting?

Encourage families to help Scouts catch up at home. Let them know what was covered and provide materials if needed.

How do I handle behavior issues?

Set clear expectations at the start of the year. Have the Scouts help create a den code of conduct. If problems arise, address them calmly and privately. Talk with parents if needed.

Do parents need to stay at meetings?

Arrow of Light Scouts are usually fine without a parent at every meeting, but parent involvement is always encouraged. Ask for parent volunteers to help with activities and outings.

How do I find help when I have questions?

Your Cubmaster, pack leadership, and other den leaders are great resources. Cub Scout roundtable meetings and online forums also provide support and ideas.

Can Scouts earn extra adventures beyond the required ones?

Yes. Scouts need two elective adventures to earn the Arrow of Light, but they can do more if they want. These can be completed with the den or at home with their families.

How do I plan field trips and outings?

Check the adventure requirements for ideas. Contact locations in advance to schedule visits. Make sure parents know the details and arrange transportation if needed.

What if my den is small?

Consider working with another den in your pack for some activities. Small dens can still have a great experience with creative planning.

How do we celebrate Scouts earning the Arrow of Light?

Many packs hold a special ceremony to recognize this achievement. Some include a crossover ceremony for those joining Scouts BSA. Work with your pack leadership to plan a meaningful event.

Being a den leader for Arrow of Light Scouts is an exciting and rewarding job. You are guiding them through their final year of Cub Scouting and preparing them for the next big step into Scouts BSA. Along the way, they will learn new skills, grow in confidence, and make great memories. Your leadership makes all the difference in their experience.

A well-planned year helps everything run smoothly. Use the den meeting plans, mix in field trips, and keep things active and fun. Let the Scouts take on leadership roles and encourage them to work together. Engage parents so you have support, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from other leaders in your pack.

Most importantly, enjoy the journey. You are helping shape future leaders and teaching valuable skills that will stay with them for life. Have fun, be flexible, and celebrate their achievements along the way. When they finally earn their Arrow of Light, you’ll know that all of your hard work was worth it. Thank you for being a great den leader!