How do they utilize the Advancement & Merit Badge Program?
Some Troops use the Advancement and Merit Badge Program as the cornerstone of their regular monthly meetings. Campouts and Troop meetings center on helping the boys advance within the format outlined by the Boy Scouts of America. Some Troops focus meetings on merit badge work only. Other Troops may feel that the advancements and merit badges are secondary and plan activities independent of them leaving the Scouts to earn all merit badges on their own. Clearly, either system can function well, and boys, and parents, can learn to work with either style of advancement. Historically, Troops that have a mix of activities offer the best opportunities for advancement. Typically, there will only be a hand full of boys that will be able to achieve all the skills and learning necessary to advance independently of outside help. The Troop program should offer merit badge classes and provide guidance throughout the Scout years. In fact, each Patrol should have adult guides to help each scout along
