Tiger Cubs receive recognition for their participation in the various activities of their den and also with their adult partner and family. Tiger Cubs first earn the Tiger Cub badge, then the Bobcat badge.

Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts have a plan of advancement in which a boy learns by doing. All boys, regardless of the age at which they joined Cub Scouts, earn the Bobcat badge first. After receiving the Bobcat badge, the boy works on requirements based on his grade or age. Parent involvement is a vital part of the advancement plan for Cub Scouts.