Boys need frequent recognition soon after an accomplishment.
The Cub Scout Immediate Recognition Kit provides recognition during the path to earn the Wolf and Bear rank badges.
As a Wolf or Bear, when he completes his first three achievements, his den leader presents the Progress Toward Ranks totem to him. It's a diamond with a thong attached and a bead slipped on the thong. It is worn on the button of the right shirt pocket as a temporary badge. For every three achievements completed by the scout as a Wolf, he will receive a gold bead. For every 3 achievements earned as a Bear, he will receive a red bead.
These beads should be presented at den meetings. After he gets his fourth bead, he has completed the requirements for his rank badge (either Wolf or Bear) which will be awarded at a pack meeting.

Cub Scouts may continue to wear this emblem after ranks are earned until they become Webelos Scouts.