Get ready for some exciting updates regarding the Webelos program and the transition to Scouts BSA! In the past, there was some confusion around Webelos, but we’re shaking things up for the better. We’ve listened to your feedback and made some big changes. Now, Webelos is exclusively for 4th graders, while Arrow of Light is all about preparing 5th graders for the adventure ahead in Scouts BSA. It’s a game-changer that’s going to make the Cub Scout journey even more thrilling and focused. Check out the video below and discover how these updates are shaping the future of Cub Scouting!
The Webelos program confused parents, leaders, and even professional staff. Webelos officially referred to all Cub Scouts in 4th and 5th grade, which was different compared to the other ranks where each rank is specific to one grade.
The purpose of the Webelos program was to prepare Cub Scouts to join Scouts BSA. After reviewing the program, it wasn’t clear how the current 2-year Webelos program was accomplishing this objective. This is what led to the decision to make the Arrow of Light a stand-alone badge of rank to prepare Cub Scouts to join Scouts BSA.
Now, Webelos is the Cub Scout program for 4th graders and Arrow of light is a stand-alone program for 5th graders. Arrow of light is no longer associated with Webelos. Arrow of light is the program that prepares Cub Scouts to join Scouts BSA.
Webelos cannot begin working on their Arrow of Light until after they complete the 4th grade. Current 4th grade Webelos should focus only on Webelos required Adventures and not start any work on Arrow of Light. It is suggested that they focus on the elective Adventures that will not be available to them next year as an Arrow of Light.
Many of the updated required Adventures for Arrow of Light are designed to prepare Cub Scouts to join Scouts BSA. For example, in the Bobcat Adventure for Arrow of Light, Cub Scouts learn about the patrol method, they learn the Scouts BSA sign, salute, and handshake.
Webelos will remain in a blue Cub Scout uniform including the Webelos hat, neckerchief, and neckerchief slide. The majority of 4th grade Webelos in Cub Scouting were active in Cub Scouting as 3rd graders and already have a blue uniform. This allows Cub Scouts to get the most use out of their Cub Scout uniform.
Arrow of Light Scouts will wear the Scouts BSA uniform with blue shoulder loops. There will not be an Arrow of Light hat, neckerchief, or neckerchief slide. The Arrow of Light rank is designed to prepare a Cub Scout to join Scouts BSA making it the best time to convert into a tan Scouts BSA uniform. This also allows a family to get the most out of the tan Scouts BSA uniform.