Cub Scouts Getting Video Game Pins and Belt Loops
by VGChartz Staff, posted on 28 April 2010 / 1,782 Views
Once all about nature, the Boy Scouts are either getting with the times, or accepting the inevitable, or selling out (one of those). They have added video game pins and belt loops to their repertoire of awards, and games will now stand alongside other, more nature-y achievements like "geology" and "wildlife conservation."
I suppose it's not too far of a stretch for the Boy Scouts, however, as they have other games (chess) and other technological achievements (computers) in their program. The funny part is that the video games belt loop and pin are in the "Academics" area with everything else, along with other non-academics like "good manners" and "collecting," which nonetheless inspire young boys to become complete individuals and do something more than just sit in their rooms and play video games all day.
From the Cub Scouts official website:
"The Cub Scouts Academics and Sports Program is one method of addressing the third aim of Scouting: the development of physical, mental and emotional fitness. Fitness includes the body (well-tuned and healthy), the mind (able to think and solve problems), and the emotions (self-control, courage, and self-respect). As in most activities in Cub Scouting, this is not meant to be a highly competitive program, instead, the boys are encouraged to DO THEIR BEST."
Check out the requirements to earn the coveted video games belt loop and pin:
"Cub Scout Guidelines:
Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, and Webelos Scouts may complete requirements in a family, den, pack, school, or community environment. Tiger Cubs must work with their parents or adult partners. Parents and partners do not earn loops or pins.
Requirements for the Video Games Belt Loop
Complete these three requirements:
1. Explain why it is important to have a rating system for video games. Check your video games to be sure they are right for your age.
2. With an adult, create a schedule for you to do things that includes your chores, homework, and video gaming. Do your best to follow this schedule.
3. Learn to play a new video game that is approved by your parent, guardian, or teacher.
Requirements for the Video Games Pin
Earn the Video Games belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:
1. With your parents, create a plan to buy a video game that is right for your age group.
2. Compare two game systems (for example, Microsoft Xbox, Sony PlayStation, Nintendo Wii, and so on). Explain some of the differences between the two. List good reasons to purchase or use a game system.
3. Play a video game with family members in a family tournament.
4. Teach an adult or a friend how to play a video game.
5. List at least five tips that would help someone who was learning how to play your favorite video game.
6. Play an appropriate video game with a friend for one hour.
7. Play a video game that will help you practice your math, spelling, or another skill that helps you in your schoolwork.
8. Choose a game you might like to purchase. Compare the price for this game at three different stores. Decide which store has the best deal. In your decision, be sure to consider things like the store return policy and manufacturer’s warranty.
9. With an adult’s supervision, install a gaming system."
Is this a good idea? I'm glad that it's taking a more social and instructional approach to games (along with teaching responsible gaming habits), instead of demonizing them as destroying the minds and souls of our children, but isn't this sort of... anti-Cub Scout? "Go outside! Help your neighbors! Collect pinecones!" Not, "Play games and learn about rating systems!"
Maybe I'm just old-fashioned.
