Merit badges Archives - Scouting magazine

Communication merit badge imparts an essential life skill

By Michael Freeman

Communication is one of the merit badges required for the Eagle Scout rank. But counselor Paul McDonald of Overland Park, Kan., thinks it’s even more important than that.

How to master merit badges

By Michael Freeman

Merit badges can be a source of confusion. Here are some rapid-fire answers about counselors, requirements and more concerning merit badges.

The Exploration merit badge: To boldly go…

By Michael Freeman

Exploration, the BSA’s newest merit badge, unlocks a world of possibility.

How to add color to the Art merit badge

By Mark Ray

While many Scouts earn the badge at summer camp, the badge is also a great offseason option.

Venturers explore the coastline of Catalina Island with ocean kayaks

By Scouting magazine

Grab a paddle and join this California crew as they explore the shores of Catalina Island with ocean kayaks.

Ideas for teaching STEM-subject merit badges

By Scouting magazine

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

Merit Badge Clinic: Take a Hike

By Scouting magazine

Tips for teaching your Scouts about the real destination.

Tips for teaching the Genealogy merit badge

By Scouting magazine

How Scouts can break down walls between generations.

All about earning merit badges

By Scouting magazine

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.

Merit Badge Clinic: Do Your Scouts Talk the Talk?

By Scouting magazine

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