Bear Den (3rd Grade)
Bear is a year of hands‑on adventure, outdoor skills, creativity, and growing independence. At Pack 3963, Bear Scouts take on more challenging projects, learn practical life skills, and participate in service activities that help them understand their community.
Pack 3963 meets at Eden United Church of Christ, located at 5051 W Gunnison St, Chicago, IL 60630.
Bears begin to show real confidence as they learn to cook outdoors, build simple projects, explore nature, and work together as a team. This rank is a favorite for many Scouts because of how active and engaging the adventures are.
Den Leadership
- Adam Hagg
- Gabriel Mejia
Bear leaders guide Scouts through hands‑on projects, outdoor cooking, service activities, and adventures that build confidence and teamwork. Parents are encouraged to support at‑home requirements and attend outings when possible.
What Bear Looks Like at Pack 3963
- Age: 3rd Grade (typically 8–9 years old).
- Focus: Outdoor skills, cooking, creativity, and responsibility.
- Meeting Style: Hands‑on projects, outdoor activities, and skill‑building challenges.
- Pack Events: Bears participate in campouts, Pinewood Derby, service projects, and more.
- Skill Development: Cooking, building, first aid, knots, and community service.
Bears begin to take pride in completing more complex tasks and learning skills that prepare them for Webelos and Arrow of Light.
Bear Adventures
Bear adventures help Scouts explore creativity, learn practical skills, and grow in confidence. Completing required adventures and electives earns the Bear rank.
Examples of Bear Adventures
- Bear Claws: Learning pocketknife safety and practicing basic carving skills.
- Bear Picnic Basket: Cooking skills, meal planning, and outdoor food preparation.
- Fur, Feathers & Ferns: Nature exploration and learning about wildlife.
- Paws for Action: Community service and learning about local heroes.
- Baloo the Builder: Simple woodworking and building projects.
For the most current list of Bear adventures and requirements, visit the official Cub Scout program updates:
Cub Scout Adventures (Scouting America)Parent & Guardian Role
Bear Scouts are becoming more capable and independent, but parent involvement is still important. At Pack 3963, we ask that parents:
- Support at‑home adventure requirements.
- Attend outings and campouts when possible.
- Encourage responsibility and teamwork.
- Communicate with den leaders about scheduling and needs.
Joining the Bear Den
If your child is entering 3rd grade and you live in Jefferson Park, Portage Park, or the Northwest Side of Chicago, they are eligible to join the Bear den at Pack 3963.
Visit our Contact Page or email cubscouts3963@gmail.com to get started.
Email: cubscouts3963@gmail.com
Phone: (773) 257-3212
Ready to explore the next ranks? Visit our Dens Page to see Webelos and Arrow of Light.