Scouting America

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Family Life

Merit Badge

Digital Resource Guide

Character Development

The Family Life Merit Badge gives Scouts hands-on learning opportunities to build character by leading family meetings, taking charge of home projects, and discussing the pressures youth face today. It strengthens communication, responsibility, and teamwork while showing Scouts how they can support their families in meaningful ways. By applying what they learn—whether helping with chores, supporting siblings, or volunteering locally, Scouts discover how they can make a meaningful difference in their homes and communities.

Overview

The family is the basic unit of society and is important to both individuals and communities. The world is rapidly changing, making today’s society much more complex than ever before. As Scouts earn this merit badge, they will realize why it is important to know more about family life and how to strengthen their families.

The Family Structure

Families are formed in different ways, and Scouts come from families of all different sizes.
Keep reading to explore how each family structure is unique and important in its own way!

Nuclear Family

Parents and their children living together as one household.

Extended Family

Relatives outside of the nuclear family.

Single-Parent Family

One parent raising children.

Blended Family

Stepparents and stepchildren coming together.

Adoptive Family

Parents with non-biological children.

Childless Family

Couples without children.

Now Let’s Explore the Requirements for the Family Life Merit Badge!

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New Digital Resource Guides Available

Digital resource guides for Citizenship in the Community & Citizenship in the Nation are now available. Check them out today!