Plan your meetings ahead of time with emphasis on the flow of activities. Alternate betwen quiet and more virgorous activitities. Boys have a lot of engergy to expend, so be sure you have an active game or craft to help channel some of that energy. Use the "theme of the month" for ideas.

Activities

 
• The pledge of allegiance should be recited immediately after attendance has been taken. Chose a different boy each week to lead the den in the pledge.

   

• Den Rules and Code of Conduct. At the beginning of the year establish the rules that the den will follow and the consequences for breaking those rules. Boys should participate in the decision-making process. By helping decide what can and can’t happen in the den, boys will feel a sense of responsibility toward how the den is run. They will feel den is theirs. Have them sign a poster on which the code of conduct is written and display it at your meeting place. Or make two copies: one that boys can keep at home and one to be displayed at the den meeting after both the boys and his parents have signed it.

   

• Ceremonies are important for making the beginning and ending of each meeting. They are also a time for reinforcing the aims and purposes of Scouting and bringing the boys together. As boys finish achievements toward their badges, simple ceremonies during the den meeting wills serve to congratulate them on their accomplishments.

   

• Immediate Recognition Kits. Use of the immediate recognition kits for Tiger Cubs and Cub Scouts is a method of encouragement along the advancement trail. Set aside time in den meetings to award beads representing completion of achievements. Congratulate boys enthusiastically for their efforts.

   

• Treats. Boys love goodies! Give everyone a chance to share his favorite treats with the den. Make a schedule of who will be responsible for treats each week. Call or email the parent before the den meeting to remind them to bring the treat to the next den meeting

   

• Den scrapbook. Fill the scrapbook with sample artwork boys do as den activities, stories about their adventures, and pictures take of boys with their completed crafts. Pictures or art projects can be post on the website for other family members to view.