Scouts introduce Video Games badge
Videogame awards encourage family play, price comparisons and edutainment
The Boy Scouts of America have introduced a new Videogames award to promote understanding of the ESRB rating system and more educational titles.
The basic belt loop award is for Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts and has three requirements, the first being to "explain why it is important to have a rating system for videogames" and to check that the Scout's own games are suitable.
The second requirement is that the Scout prepare a schedule of activities that includes household chores, homework and videogames. The third is to "learn to play a new videogame that is approved by your parent, guardian, or teacher."
An advanced Academics Pin (aka badge) has a total of nine requirements. These include buying a game with a suitable age rating; comparing two different videogame systems; organising a family tournament; and teaching an adult or friend how to play a game.
Other requirements task Scouts with suggesting tips to help another with their favourite game; playing a game with a friend for an hour; playing a game that helps maths, spelling or other academic skills; comparing prices of games in different retailers; and installing a gaming system.
The awards are not listed on the British Cub Scouts website but further details can be found at the Boy Scouts of America site.