In Cub Scout packs, Akela is a symbol of wisdom, authority, and leadership. Akela is anyone who acts as a leader to the Scout. Akela can be a Cubmaster, Den Leader, parent or teacher depending on where the guidance takes place. In den meetings, it is the Den Leader who is Akela. During pack meetings it is the Cubmaster. At home, the parents fill this role. Scouting is not about dropping your son off and walking away. It is important to understand that Scouting is a family activity. The Leaders are their to help provide the tools and guidance, but without the participation and support from the family, the Pack and the boys would fail.

Sir Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of the Scouting movement, chose Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book as a source of symbolism and allegorical framework for the youngest members of the Scouting movement. Many references are made to this story in the Cub Scout section, including the "Council Rock" for discussions and planning, and the "Grand Howl" to express a sense of belonging and team spirit.

Many Cub Scout packs use an oath called the "Law of the Pack" to show allegiance and demonstrate their relationship to Akela and the pack:

        The Cub Scout follows Akela. 
        The Cub Scout helps the pack go. 
        The pack helps the Cub Scout grow. 
        The Cub Scout gives goodwill.


As part of earning their Bobcat, parents also participate in the ceremony as follows:

 

 

Parents play an important role in Cub Scouting. You will work with your sons on their achievements and electives. You will find that you will learn as well as your son, and in having fun with them will become a closer family. Parents as your boys have made a promise, I ask that you too make a promise. Please repeat after me:

We will continue to
Do our best
To help our sons
Along the achievement trail
And share with them
The work and fun of Cub Scouting.