Family Scouting uses eight specific methods to achieve Scouting’s aims of helping boys and girls build character, train in the responsibilities of citizenship, and develop personal fitness. These methods are incorporated into all aspects of the program. Through these methods, Cub Scouting happens in the lives of boys and girls and their families.
1. The ideals: The Cub Scout Promise, the Law of the Pack, and the Cub Scout sign, handshake, motto, and salute all teach good citizenship and contribute to a boy’s and girl's sense of belonging.
2. Belonging to a den: The den—a group of six to eight boys or girls who are about the same age—is the place where Cub Scouting starts. The den is the place where the boys and girls develop new skills and interests, they practice sportsmanship and good citizenship, and they learn to do their best, not just for themselves but for the den as well. They have fun in den meetings, during indoor and outdoor activities, and on field trips.
3. Advancement: Recognition is important to boys and girls. The advancement plan provides fun for the boys and girls, gives them a sense of personal achievement as they earn badges, and strengthens family understanding. Cub Scout leaders and adult family members work with boys and girls on advancement projects.
4. Family involvement: Family involvement is an essential part of Cub Scouting. When we speak of parents or families, we are not referring to any particular family structure. Some boys or girls live with two parents, some live with one parent, some have foster parents, and some live with other relatives or guardians. Whomever a boy or girl calls thier family, is thier family in Cub Scouting.
5. Participating in Activities: In Cub Scouting, boys participate in a wide variety of den and pack activities, such as games, projects, skits, stunts, songs, outdoor activities, and trips. Also, the Cub Scout Academics and Sports program and Family Scouting’s Fun for the Family include activities that encourage personal achievement and family involvement.
6. Home and neighborhood centered: Cub Scouting focuses on the home and neighborhood. Cub scouts meetings happen in the neighborhood and helps boys strengthen connections to their local communities, which in turn support the boys and girls' growth and development.
7. Wearing the uniform: The Cub Scout uniform helps build loyalty to each other and self-respect. Wearing the uniform to all den and pack meetings and activities also encourages a neat appearance, a sense of belonging, and good behavior.
8. Making Character Connections: Throughout the program, leaders learn to identify and use character lessons in activities so boys and girls can learn to know, commit, and practice the 12 core values of Cub Scouting. Character Connections are included in all the methods of Family Scouting and are the program themes for monthly pack meetings.