Bear Paws for Action Adventure: Cub Scout Helps and Ideas

This information is for the Cub Scout program before the June 1, 2024 updates. After June 2024, all Cub Scouts should use the updated program requirements. See here.

The Bear Paws for Action adventure isn’t just a set of tasks; it’s a journey to instill values, build character, and foster a sense of duty to the country in our young Scouts.

Through engaging with our nation’s flag and history, Bear Cub Scouts will develop a deep sense of patriotism and connection to their heritage. These activities are more than lessons; they’re pathways to understanding what binds us as a nation.

The adventure goes beyond the classroom by promoting civic responsibility and community awareness. Interaction with local law enforcement and fire departments demystifies these crucial roles, teaching them about service and the importance of safety in a tangible way.

By planning and practicing for emergencies, we’re not just preparing them for unlikely events; we’re fostering independence, responsibility, and family cooperation. These real-life skills contribute to their growth as responsible citizens.

Community service, whether through a cleanup project or a patriotic parade, encourages empathy, teamwork, and a sense of belonging. They learn that even small acts can have a big impact on the community.

The Bear Paws for Action adventure is an opportunity to shape our Cub Scouts into informed, compassionate, and engaged members of society.

Complete requirement 1 plus two others from requirements 2–4.

1. Learn about our nation’s flag. Display it at home for one month. Say the Pledge of Allegiance, and learn its meaning.
2. Do at least one of the following.
   • Find out about two famous Americans. Share what you learned
   • Find out where places of historical interest are located in or near your community, town, or city. Go and visit one of them with your family or den
3. Do at least two of the following:
   • With your school or den, visit a local sheriff’s office, police station, or fire department OR talk with a fire safety officer or law enforcement officer visiting your school or den. Find out what skills the officers use to do their jobs. Ask questions that will help you learn how to stay safe.
   • Make a list of emergency numbers and discuss with your family where the list should be kept. Show your family that you know how to call for help in an emergency. Talk with your family about people who could help you if a parent is not available.
   • With your family, develop a plan to follow in case of an emergency, and practice the plan at least three times. Your family can determine the emergency, or you can develop several plans.
4. Do at least one of the following:
   • Do a cleanup project that benefits your community
   • Participate in a patriotic community parade or other civic event that honors our country.

Click here to download a printable PDF copy of the Bear Paws for Action requirements (page 1) and a check off sheet (page 2) to keep track of your den’s progress.

Tips for Fulfilling Requirement 1 of the Bear Paws for Action Adventure

Requirement 1 for the Bear Paws for Action adventure involves learning about our nation’s flag, displaying it, and understanding the Pledge of Allegiance:

• Start with Basics: Teach them about the flag’s colors, stars, and stripes. Explain what each element represents to make it more relatable.
• Proper Display Guidelines: Show them how to properly hang and care for the flag. This can be a hands-on activity to make it more engaging.
• Pledge of Allegiance Practice: Encourage them to recite the Pledge of Allegiance daily. Break it down into sections if needed, to understand each part.
• Interactive Learning: Consider using videos or books that are geared towards their age group. Visual aids can make the learning process more interesting.
• Family Involvement: Get the whole family to participate in the daily reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance. It can become a meaningful family routine.
• Field Trip: If possible, a visit to a local museum or historical site with flag exhibits can provide a memorable learning experience.
• Reflect on Its Meaning: Engage them in conversation about what the flag and pledge mean to them personally. Sharing your feelings can help them articulate their own thoughts.
• Create a Calendar: Marking off the days on a calendar as they complete a month of displaying the flag can make it a fun and anticipated daily activity.
• Celebrate Completion: At the end of the month, celebrate their accomplishment with a small ceremony or reward. Acknowledging their effort makes the experience more gratifying.

By turning this Bear Paws for Action requirement into an engaging and meaningful experience, you’ll help the Cub Scouts connect more deeply with the symbols of their nation. It’s a chance to infuse everyday learning with fun and reverence.

Tips for Fulfilling Requirement 2 of the Bear Paws for Acton Adventure

Requirement 2 for the Bear Paws for Action Adventure involves either learning about famous Americans or visiting a place of historical interest:

Finding Out About Two Famous Americans:

1. Choose Diverse Figures: Encourage them to select two individuals from different backgrounds or fields. This can provide a broader perspective.
2. Utilize Multiple Sources: Books, documentaries, or reputable websites can provide rich information. Libraries often have great resources for kids.
3. Create a Presentation: Have them present what they learned to the family or den. It could be a drawing, a speech, or even a short skit.
4. Relate to Current Life: Help them understand why these figures are significant today. How did they shape the present?
5. Encourage Questions: Promote a discussion by asking what they found most interesting or surprising about these individuals.

Visiting Places of Historical Interest:

1. Research Local Sites: Look for local museums, historical buildings, or landmarks. Many communities have hidden gems.
2. Plan Ahead: Check for opening hours, guided tours, or special events. Some places might require advanced booking.
3. Make It Interactive: Create a scavenger hunt or quiz for the visit. It can turn the experience into a fun exploration.
4. Discuss the Visit: After the trip, talk about what they saw and learned. What stood out to them the most?
5. Document the Experience: Encourage them to write a journal entry or draw a picture of the visit. It’ll serve as a keepsake.

These tips aim to make the process of learning about famous Americans or visiting historical places not only educational but also engaging and memorable. By adding elements of interaction, creativity, and personal reflection, you can turn these Bear Paws for Acton requirements into experiences that resonate with the Cub Scouts.

Tips for Fulfilling Requirement 3 of the Bear Paws for Action Adventure

Requirement 3 for Bear Paws for Action involves learning about emergency preparedness:

Visiting a Local Sheriff’s Office, Police Station, or Fire Department:

1. Coordinate the Visit: Contact the local stations to arrange a suitable time and ensure they offer visits or talks for groups.
2. Prepare Questions: Help the Scouts come up with questions they’d like to ask about safety and the officers’ roles.
3. Discuss Safety: Talk about personal safety before the visit and discuss what they learned afterward.
4. Show Gratitude: Encourage the Scouts to write thank-you notes to the officers who hosted them.

Making a List of Emergency Numbers:

1. Gather Information: Help them find the necessary numbers for local emergency services.
2. Decide the Location: Discuss with them the best place to keep the list, such as on the fridge or by the phone.
3. Role-Playing: Practice making an emergency call with them, emphasizing the importance of staying calm.
4. Discuss Alternative Contacts: Talk about neighbors, friends, or relatives who could assist them if parents aren’t available.

Developing and Practicing an Emergency Plan:

1. Identify Potential Emergencies: Help them recognize different types of emergencies that could occur in your area.
2. Create a Plan: Outline specific steps for different situations. Include details like emergency exits and meeting places.
3. Involve the Whole Family: Ensure everyone knows their role in the plan.
4. Practice Regularly: Run through the plan at least three times, varying scenarios if possible, to ensure everyone knows what to do.
5. Review and Update: Periodically revisit the plan to make any necessary updates or refresh everyone’s memory.

By turning these Bear Paws for Action requirements into interactive and educational activities, you’re providing valuable life skills and safety awareness. Remember to balance the seriousness of the subject with a supportive and engaging approach to make it a positive learning experience for the Cub Scouts.

Tips for Fulfilling Requirement 4 of the Bear Paws for Action Adventure

Requirement 4 for the Bear Paws for Action adventure involves participation in either a community cleanup project or a patriotic community parade:

Doing a Cleanup Project that Benefits Your Community:

1. Identify the Need: Scout the community for areas that need cleaning, like a park or a beach.
2. Plan and Prepare: Set a date, time, and gather necessary supplies like gloves, trash bags, and hand sanitizers.
3. Safety First: Ensure safety measures are in place. This could include wearing gloves and being careful with unknown objects.
4. Get Others Involved: Consider inviting other community members or Scouts to join.
5. Reflect on the Experience: After the cleanup, discuss the importance of community service and environmental stewardship.

Participating in a Patriotic Community Parade or Civic Event:

1. Find an Event: Look for local parades or civic events honoring the country. Community websites or local newspapers often have event listings.
2. Understand Participation Rules: If joining a parade, contact the organizers to understand any specific guidelines or requirements.
3. Prepare: This might include creating banners, practicing a march, or understanding the route.
4. Dress Appropriately: Encourage Scouts to wear their uniforms or other patriotic attire.
5. Discuss the Significance: Talk with them about why the event is held and what it represents for the community and country.

Whether it’s taking care of the environment or showing patriotic spirit, these activities can provide valuable lessons in civic responsibility, teamwork, and community engagement. Approaching this Bear Paws for Action requirement with thoughtful planning, enthusiasm, and reflection can make the experience both enjoyable and enriching for the Cub Scouts.

Emergency Phone Number List

As part of the Bear Paws for Action adventure, Scouts create a list of emergency phone numbers and discuss its placement with their family. This requirement fosters an essential skill: knowing how to call for help in an emergency. Scouts learn about preparedness and personal safety, and they are encouraged to talk with family about alternative help if a parent is unavailable. The accessible list of emergency contacts enables Scouts to connect quickly with parents, leaders, or emergency services, empowering responsible action whether at home or on a camping trip.

Fire Drill Time!

In the Bear Paws for Action adventure, preparedness is key. Cub Scout leaders can promote this by sending home a handout for a home fire drill. This practice not only aligns with the values of the Bear Paws for Action adventure but also emphasizes family involvement in safety, fostering responsibility and readiness in young Scouts.

Flag Etiquette and Ceremonies

Flag etiquette is an integral part of the Bear Paws for Action adventure, teaching Scouts respect and proper handling of the United States flag. By engaging in these activities, young Scouts learn to honor their country’s symbol, instilling a sense of patriotism and duty that aligns with the values of the Bear adventure.

• Opening Flag Ceremony
• Closing Flag Ceremony
• How to Fold the US Flag
• Flag Retirement Ceremony
• Raising and Lowering the US Flag

BSA Video Resource for Paws for Action

What is the Bear Paws for Action Adventure?

The Bear Paws for Action Adventure is designed for Bear Cub Scouts to engage in activities that promote patriotism, community service, safety awareness, and family collaboration.

Who can participate in the Bear Paws for Action Adventure?

The Bear Paws for Action Adventure is intended for Bear Cub Scouts, usually in the third grade or 8-9 years old.

Can the Bear Paws for Action adventure requirements be completed individually or must they be done with the den?

Some of the Bear Paws for Action requirements are best fulfilled within the family or community, while others are intended for collaboration within the den. Always consult your leader’s guide for specifics.

Are there guidelines for displaying the flag at home for the Bear Paws for Action adventure?

Yes, the Cub Scouts are expected to learn and follow proper flag etiquette, which includes how to handle, display, and respect the flag. More details are provided in the requirements tips and answers section.

How can I find patriotic community events for participation for the Bear Paws for Action adventure?

Government centers, local newspapers, community websites, or direct contact with local civic organizations are great ways to find relevant events.

What are some examples of community cleanup projects for the Bear Paws for Action adventure?

Cleanup projects might include picking up litter in a park, organizing a recycling drive, or beautifying a communal area with flowers and plants.

How can we ensure safety during community cleanup projects for the Bear Paws for Action adventure?

Ensuring safety might include wearing proper clothing, using gloves, being cautious with unknown objects, and plenty of adult supervision.

What is the goal of learning about famous Americans for the Bear Paws for Action adventure?

The aim is to instill an understanding of significant contributions made by individuals and inspire the Cub Scouts with diverse role models.

Can family members participate in these Bear Paws for Action activities?

Family involvement is encouraged, particularly in activities like emergency planning, visiting historical places, and saying the Pledge of Allegiance.