There are two ways to join the Scouts BSA.  The simplest way is to wait for the boys to turn 11 years old.  However, many cub scouts choose a faster route by completing the Arrow of Light requirements, which allows the boys to begin the "real fun" in boy scouts as early as the Fall/Winter time.

• By completing the Arrow of Light requirements, boys can bridge as soon as they turn 10 1/2 years old. 

• Therefore, for boys with a March birthday, they can join as early as September.

Arrow of Light Requirements

1. Recite the Boy Scout Oath or Promise.

2. Recite the Boy Scout motto, slogan, sign, salute, and handshake.

3. Understand the significance of the First Class Scout badge. Describe its parts and tell what each stands for.

4. Tell how a Boy Scout uniform is different from a Webelos Scout uniform.

STUDY AIDS

The requirements may seem daunting at first.  But with some practice, your boys will be able to ace them.  Here is a handy memory wheel to help out.  And a 1 page study guide.