In addition to completing basic training for their position, Webelos den leaders, because of their special role in working with boys as they make their transition into Boy Scouting, have additional training needs. Of all Cub program adult positions, the training needs for Webelos leaders are the most extensive.

Here's a summary of the training that all  Webelos den leaders should take. 

All Webelos den leaders should complete Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) training. Having BALOO-trained adult leadership is a requirement for outdoor activities, and the Webelos program places significant emphasis on the outdoor program.

Webelos I den leaders should take Outdoor Leader Skills for Webelos Leaders (OWL), preferably in the spring prior to starting their new role (i.e. Bear leaders who will become Webelos leaders). OWL is designed for any Webelos leader who will be involved in camping or other outdoor activities. It covers the skills related to several of the Webelos activity pins, as well as general camping skills. It also highlights the transition from Cub Scouting to the boy-led patrol system used in Troops. The participants share ideas for age-appropriate activities for Webelos.

During the fall, prior to crossover, Webelos II den leaders should take Scoutmaster training , and also consider taking Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS). This serves two purposes - first, it offers the Webelos leader additional perspective on the transition Webelos Scouts will be making into Boy Scouting, and second, because many Webelos leaders also cross over into Boy Scouting with their sons, this allows them to hit the ground running in the spring.

For more information about Cub Scouting program training opportunities, visit the North Shore Cub Scout leader training page. For more information on Scoutmaster training, visit our Boy Scout leader training page . 

As we enter into the fall, some adults are just beginning their journey into Scouting, and others are continuing on in the same or a new role. And some are anticipating moving from one program to another in the coming months. This is an important time to think about what training you need to help round out your skillset for your current role, or to build your skillset for your next role.

If you're a new leader, make sure you check the training roadmap for your program. These are available on each of our program-specific training pages, which you can get to via our training home page .

If you're a Cub Scout leader and you're moving into a new role this year - for example, moving from Tiger den leader to Wolf/Bear den leader, you'll need to take the training for your new position. If you previously have completed training for your old position (Fast Start + Youth Protection + New Leader Essentials + Position-Specific) then you will only need to take the position-specific (CSLS-II) module for your new position. If not, you'll need to follow the roadmap for new Cub Scout leaders to complete your training.

If you're a Webelos II den leader or other Cub Scout leader who is anticipating crossing over into Boy Scouting this spring, you are strongly encouraged to take Scoutmaster Fundamentals training this fall. Being trained in advance will smooth your transition into Boy Scouting and also help you to hit the ground running.

If you're a troop committee member, Scoutmaster Fundamentals training is also highly encouraged. Also, keep in mind that you also can become fully trained for your committee position by following the steps in the Boy Scout leader training roadmap.

So as you enter this fall Scouting season, consider your training needs and put your own plan into action.