How to Teach Cub Scouts How to Tie Knots

Buy a long rope and cut it to size.

Cub Scouts, a part of the Boy Scouts of America, formally launched in 1930. Since that time, elementary school boys have participated under the direction of a Scout Master and other volunteers. The Scout Master teaches the boys many useful activities, and the scouts earn badges when they master a particular skill. One thing that a Scout Master can teach Cub Scouts is how to tie knots.

Things You'll Need

• 1 6-foot rope per participant, 3/16- to 1/4-inch in diameter.

Instructions

1. Practice the knots yourself until you can do them easily. View the knots from various angles so that you know what they look like and can tell if the Cub Scouts are tying them correctly.

2. Gather the Cub Scouts into a group. Teach them the history of the knot and in what situations to use it.

3. Hand out a rope to everyone present, including any adults. Slowly demonstrate how to tie the knot, explaining each step. Invite the adults to participate in tying knots during your demonstration to the Cub Scouts.

4. Demonstrate how to tie the knot again, explaining each step. This time, have the Cub Scouts follow along with you.

5. Tell the Cub Scouts to repeatedly tie the knot. Walk around while they are practicing. Give them one-on-one instruction as needed.

Tips & Warnings

• Once the Cub Scouts learn a knot, have them use it in other activities for further practice. It will help them remember the technique.

References

• Boy Scouts of America: History of the BSA Highlights
• Cub Pack 2: Teaching and Having Fun with Knots