The Webelos (WE-BE-LOyal-Scouts) program is for boys who have completed third grade (or are age 10).  A boy may begin working on the Webelos badge as soon as he joins a Webelos den.  This is the first step in his transition from the Webelos den to the Boy Scout troop.  As he completes the requirements found in the Webelos Scout Book, he will work on activity badges, attend meetings led by adults, and become familiar with the Boy Scout requirements—all leading to the Arrow of Light Award.

Webelos Program Goals

Webelos Monthly Themes

The monthly themes for Webelos are consistent from year to year (see table below) unlike the themes for younger Cub Scouts which change in a three-year cycle.  The themes are meant as a guide to assist leaders.  They focus on the badges needed for the Arrow of Light.  The goal is to have the Webelos achieve the Arrow of Light in 18-24 months. You may vary your own den's program, as you feel appropriate. 

Webelos Uniforms

Webelos Overnight Camping

Webelos Scout overnights, introduce the boy and his parent to the basics of the Boy Scout camping program.  These events are conducted under the leadership of a trained Webelos den leader.  In most cases, the Webelos Scout will be under the supervision of a parent or guardian.  In all cases, each Scout is responsible to a specific adult.  BSA health and safety and youth protection guidelines apply  Webelos Scout dens are encourage to visit Boy Scout district camporees and Klondike derbies.  The purpose of these visits should be for the boys to look ahead with anticipation to their future as Boy Scouts and observe Troops they might join.

Webelos Scout Resident Camp: Cub Scout and Webelos Scout resident camping is a council organized, theme-oriented overnight camping program. It operates for at least two nights and is conducted under certified leadership at a camp approved by the council. Resident camping typically includes the following outdoor program areas: Showmanship, Sportsmanship, Craftsmanship, Waterfront, Fitness, Campcraft, and Nature.

Transition

Bridging

Bridging is an important ceremony for 2nd-year Webelos.  It marks their official transition from Cub Scouts to Boy Scouts.  It may or may not include presentation of the Arrow of Light or a special award for completing all 20 Webelos badges.  Make your ceremony a memorable experience.

When possible, bridge an entire Webelos patrol together as a single group.  Remember that the Webelos Scout isn't just a single boy, but a part of a social group of friends from school and Scouts.  Take advantage of the natural association these boys have with each other and work to keep them together IN scouting.

Choosing a Troop

If you're a parent of a 2nd-year Webelos and your Scout's Pack is NOT associated with a Boy Scout Troop then you may need to do a little research.  Start with the Webelos Den Leader and the Cubmaster.  Ask them what they know about local Boy Scout Troops.  Ask the other parents if they are thinking of a particular Troop.  Your Scout may be more comfortable joining the same Troop as his friends.

Check it out!  Call two or three Troops (don't overdo it) and ask to attend their weekly meeting.  Perhaps the Troop will invite you on one of their outdoor events.  A camp-out or overnight with older boys can be a lot of fun for a Webelos (adult partner MUST accompany) and he'll start building relationships with the older boys..  Talk to your Scout and see what HE thinks of each Troop you visit.  Remember not to wait for the last minute to start.  Now here's suggestions on "Picking a Boy Scout Troop" from:

Recruiting

Boy Scout Leaders must be involved in recruiting 2nd-year Webelos.  Even more powerful is involving the Boy Scouts themselves.  Imagine the power of the Senior Patrol Leader calling a Webelos and inviting him to join the Troop.  Encourage responsible Boy Scouts to mentor, sponsor, and guide Webelos as Den Chiefs. 

Retention

Lowering the attrition rate must be a focus of the Pack/Troop Leadership.  Several simple steps will help retain Scouts.

Resource Links

Webelos are the role models for younger Scouts in the Pack.  They should run the flag ceremony at Pack meetings and be the first with skits and songs.