Re: Merit Badges

Bob Rosebrough, GBL, B-200 wrote:
>
> I do not know why this question keeps popping up. It is the policy of National
> (found in the troop
> committee handbook for advancement) that there is no limit on the number of meri
> t badges that one may
> counsel for. Furthermore, in black and white, there is a statement that one may
> counsel and sign off their
> sons for advancement requirements. I believe that a whole bunch of you people a
> re on power trips and
> need to be reminded that this a program of and by kids and not a place for you t
> o express your
> bureaucratic self-actualization.
>
> In summary, when in doubt, read the instructions.
>
> Bob Rosebrough
> ASm Troop 601
> Columbia, MD

Well Bob doesn't mix words. :)

But, basically that is where it is at. IMHO unless there is some
overwhelming reason, not just because the counselor is the parent, I see
no reason not to have a registered parent work with their own son on a
merit badge or two or three or more. Especially if the Scout request
that their parent be their counselor. I personally welcome parent
involvement. I agree that there is a benefit to having a Scout meet new
adults to interact with, however there is also a need to have a boy
interact with their parents. I try to encourage the boy to go to the
very best counselor that is available, and sometimes that is the parent.

I think common sense and looking at a broader spectrum of what is
important for the boy and his family out weigh a local policy that under
no circumstances shall a boy be sent to his own parent for a merit
badge.

I just recently had a father say he wants to attend his son's Eagle
Board of Review that will happen probably this Summer. Now we all know
that the policy has been that relatives are NOT allowed to attend, but,
that is no longer the case when you consider the Youth Protection
Program. Parents are welcome to attend any and all scout activities.
So soon we may see this change.

When ever Scouting can be used to strengthen the family nothing should
be put in the way. It is an error to ever think that we know what is
best for a boy over what the parents think. We can disagree, but in
the end we must support the family, even if it means having a dad or mom
be a counselor, when they are registered and qualified.

Michael Cooper
Committee Chairman
Team 167
Brier, WA
Unit Commissioner
Puget Sound District
Mt Baker Council

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