Learning how to sew, fish and read a compass are just some of the things many of us learned in a bid to get a coveted Scout badge when we were younger. But are they skills that are still relevant today? The Scout Association has decided they at least need updating and has released a series of new modern badges. TFN takes a look at what Beaver Scouts (age 6-8) are being asked to do.
Communicator Activity Badge
It’s a bit scary that some children can play a game on an iPad before they can read and write, but the Scouts Association is embracing modern technology. No longer is there a need to tie a bit of string between two yoghurt pots for a conversation starter, instead scouts need to be able to show they know their own phone number, can make a telephone call and send a text message or email.
Disability Awareness Badge
The success of Paralympians such as Ellie Simmonds (pictured) has brought disabled sports to mainstream TV. Now, the Scouts are being asked to explain a disability and find out about a Paralympian and their achievements.
Photographer Activity Badge
It’s the age of the mobile phone selfie so scouts will need to show they can take a good photograph. Instead of uploading their finished work to Instagram, however, a scrapbook is the requirement.
Collector Activity Badge
Gone are the days of Scouts collecting worms and bugs in their pockets. Instead they are being urged to pick their favourite topic and learn about it by making a collection for six weeks. It could even be a collection of toys.
Camp Craft Activity Badge
Do you know the difference between a reef knot and an anchor bend? The new badges still recognise traditional activities, such as camping, as nobody likes their tent falling down half-way through the night. Scouts will have to visit a camp and help put up a tent as well as learning some knots and knowing how to build a fire to cook on.
Sports Activity Badge
How many times have you moaned about children playing computer games instead of running about? Well moan no more, the Scouts Association is fed up too and has made taking part in a sport or physical activity for at least six weeks a must for all good scouts.
Space Activity Badge
“My Very Early Morning Jam Sandwiches Usually Nauseate People” would no longer work as the rhyme for remembering the planets after Pluto was downgraded, leaving only eight planets in the solar system. As well as learning the planets, Scouts will have to be able to identify a constellation and learn about a current space mission.
Cyclist Activity Badge
Scotland hasn’t quite caught the cycling bug like some of our European neighbours, but maybe that can change if children learn how to pedal safely when they are young. A helmet, reflective clothing and lights are all key.
Gardener Activity Badge
Scouts still have to get their hands dirty. As well as learning about trees and plants, they are expected to help out at an allotment for three months.
