We realize with schools closed for extended periods kids and families will be looking for educational and fun activities. These are great opportunities to review the depth of the Scouting program and work on badges not in your particular unit’s schedule. Remember that any electronic communication involving a youth member must adhere to BSA’s “two deep” leadership policies.
Work on Merit Badges While Home!
COVID-19 (coronavirus) is causing us to be even more resourceful and creative in how we keep the Scouting program going. Units may not be meeting as a group, but Scouts can continue to work on merit badges while they're home during Coronavirus outbreak.
As always discuss your interests in a merit badge with your Scoutmaster and receive your Scoutmaster's approval before starting one. Your Scoutmaster should supply you the name of a Merit Badge Counselor. Please remember you are only allowed to work with a Counselor that has been approved by the your District and Golden Empire Council advancement committee.
Most of these will require online research during this time so be sure you have completed your Cyber Chip first.
Remember to always use a speaker phone when talking with a counselor with a parent present or copy parent or another leader into any emails you send regarding merit badges. It is mandatory that you and your counselor follow appropriate Youth Protection requirements (including 2 deep requirements) in all interactions.
Do not adopt or buy a pet/animal just to complete a merit badge if you don’t plan to keep it. Remember some requirements require supervision so ask a parent or counselor about these before you start.