Cub Scouts for Kids Ages 5–10 in Chicagoland

Fun That Fits Your Family’s Schedule

Cub Scouts is a year-round program for boys and girls in kindergarten through 5th grade that gets kids off the couch and into adventure. From outdoor games and simple camping to hands-on projects and new friendships, Cub Scouting helps children build confidence while having a lot of fun. It’s designed for elementary-age kids and built around families, so parents are welcome and involved from day one. If you’re looking for active, meaningful activities that fit real family schedules, Cub Scouts is a great place to start.

Find a Cub Scout Pack Near You

What Kids Do in Cub Scouts

Cub Scout meetings are lively, hands-on, and age-appropriate. Kids work in small groups called dens with others their own age, led by trained parent volunteers who create a welcoming, supportive environment. Activities change throughout the year so things always feel fresh—one month might include outdoor games or a nature hike, while the next features STEM challenges, building projects, or community service. Every meeting is designed to help kids try new things, make friends, and feel proud of what they accomplish.

Children cheering, sitting by a model car race track, under a covered pavilion.

Cub Scout Ranks by Grade — Growing Year by Year

Cub Scouting follows an “advancement trail” organized by grade level, so your child always belongs with peers at the same stage. Each year brings new adventures and responsibilities.

Tiger Cub Scout emblem: Orange diamond with tiger face,

Tiger (1st Grade)

Building projects, fishing, short hikes, and learning how to work together in small teams.

Boy Scouts of America Wolf rank badge: red diamond with wolf head and

Wolf (2nd Grade)

Outdoor skills, fun fitness activities, service projects, and creative challenges.

Bear rank badge with a brown bear's face and the word

Bear (3rd Grade)

Hands-on STEM projects, camping basics, outdoor games, and growing independence.

Boy Scout badge: Brown circle with a yellow diamond enclosing a blue and yellow fleur-de-lis.

Webelos (4th Grade)

Archery, overnight camping, leadership skills, and preparation for the next stage of Scouting.

Arrow with sunburst emblem in gold, tan rectangle.
Arrow of Light (5th Grade)

Advanced outdoor experiences, teamwork, and a smooth transition into the next program.

Cub Scout Lion rank emblem: cartoon lion face, brown mane, yellow diamond, fleur-de-lis.

Lion (Kindergarten)

Simple outdoor play, teamwork games, and family activities that help kids feel comfortable trying new things.

 A Program for the Whole Family

Cub Scouting is designed to be shared. Parents are encouraged to attend meetings, help with activities, and enjoy time together as a family. Many families love that Cub Scouts isn’t just a drop-off activity—it’s a chance to connect with your child and meet other families in your community. Dens are typically small, which helps quieter or shy kids feel comfortable and supported as they find their voice.

An Active Program That Complements Sports and School

If your child loves to move, Cub Scouts delivers. Meetings and events include outdoor games, hiking, biking, and plenty of active play. Kids race Pinewood Derby cars, play kickball, explore nature, and learn by doing. Many Cub Scouts also play sports, and families often find that Scouting complements athletics by teaching teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship in a different setting.

Cub Scouts Close to Home

There’s a Cub Scout pack near you. Packs meet at local schools, churches, and community centers throughout Chicagoland’s southwest suburbs, making it easy to find one that fits your routine. Families in Joliet, Bolingbrook, and Plainfield see new Cub Scout dens forming every year, with activities tailored to the local community. Cub Scouts also enjoy camping experiences at Rainbow Scout Reservation, giving kids a safe and exciting introduction to the outdoors.

What Comes After Cub Scouts?

As kids grow, Scouting grows with them. After 5th grade, Cub Scouts transition into Scouts BSA, where youth take on more leadership, plan campouts, and work toward long-term achievements.

Common Questions About Cub Scouts

  • How often do Cub Scouts meet?

    Most packs meet just a few times per month, usually for about an hour, with optional weekend activities or events sprinkled throughout the year.

  • How much does Cub Scouting cost?

    Costs are designed to be affordable for families and vary slightly by pack. You can learn more on our Program Costs page.

  • Are girls allowed in Cub Scouts?

    Absolutely. Cub Scouts is open to both girls and boys, with welcoming packs and activities designed for all kids ages 5–10.

  • What safety measures are in place?

    Cub Scout programs are led by trained adults and follow strict youth protection policies to ensure a safe, positive environment for every child.

  • Can my child try a meeting before joining?

    Absolutely. Families are welcome to visit a Cub Scout meeting to see what it’s like before signing up.

Still Have Questions? We’re Here to Help

Choosing the right activities for your child is a big decision—especially if Scouting is new to your family. If you’re not sure where to start, or you’d like help finding the best fit for your child’s age and interests, our team is happy to help.


You can email us directly at
membership@rainbowcouncil.org

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re searching for Cub Scouts near you that offer outdoor fun, friendships, and character-building experiences for kids ages 5–10, Rainbow Council makes it easy to begin. Find a local pack, visit a meeting, and see how quickly your child feels at home.