Ideas for teaching STEM-subject merit badges

$You might not expect rocks to be involved in an event focused on math, science, and technology. But this New Hampshire gathering exposes Scouts to nontraditional topics such as geology (below). Jim Frey, assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 28 in Dunstable, Mass., uses his college degree in geological engineering to discuss rock types with Scouts. (Photo courtesy of Debbie Hill.)$

Take note of this do-it-yourself merit badge clinic that focuses on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics topics.

Continue reading →

Merit Badge Clinic: Take a Hike

Tips for teaching your Scouts about the real destination.

Continue reading →

Tips for teaching the Genealogy merit badge

How Scouts can break down walls between generations.

Continue reading →

Advancement FAQ’s: Merit Badges

Merit badges lie at the heart of the Boy Scout advancement program. Almost every Scout earns at least a few, and a few Scouts earn them all. While merit badges cover a diverse range of subjects, they’re all earned the same way.

Continue reading →

Merit Badge Clinic: Do Your Scouts Talk the Talk?

Here’s how you can teach your scouts to face down their fears of public speaking.

Continue reading →

What Would You Do: Ensuring Follow-Through

Boy Scout Image -- Merit badge completion

Do you want to get your boys to complete their merit badge requirements after summer camp is over? Here’s how.

Continue reading →

Merit Badge Clinic: Dollars and Sense

The Personal Management Merit Badge is the best lesson in what money can buy.

Continue reading →

Know Your Boy Scouts Square Knots

Boy Scouts don’t get to have all the fun. Sure, they can earn more than 120 merit badges, but that doesn’t preclude adults from enhancing their uniforms. But for grown-ups with the urge to advance, it’ll take more than consulting a merit badge pamphlet. To earn a coveted square knot, volunteers must demonstrate continued leadership and service to the program’s ideals.

Continue reading →