Req 7 — Recreate an Old-Time Scout Game

This requirement has three parts: find a game, make the equipment, and teach and play it with other Scouts.

Classic Scouting Games

Baden-Powell included several games in Scouting for Boys and used them at the Brownsea Island camp. Here are some well-known examples:

Stalking Games

• Deer Stalking: One Scout (the “deer”) stands blindfolded in a clearing. Other Scouts try to approach without being heard. If the deer hears a stalker, they point in the direction of the sound and that Scout is out. These games teach silent movement and observation.
• Scout’s Nose: Scouts are blindfolded and must identify objects by smell or touch — testing observation skills without sight.

Tracking and Observation Games

• Kim’s Game: Based on Rudyard Kipling’s novel Kim. A number of objects are displayed on a tray for one minute, then covered. Scouts must list as many as they can remember. This game was a favorite of Baden-Powell’s and trains memory and observation.
• Tracking Signs: Scouts lay trail signs (arrow shapes made from sticks and stones) for another patrol to follow through the woods. The trailing patrol must read the signs and reach the destination.

Relay and Teamwork Games

• Knot Relay: Patrols race to tie a series of knots correctly. The first patrol to finish with all knots tied properly wins.
• First Aid Relay: Patrols race to complete a first aid scenario — bandaging, carrying a patient, and answering questions. Combines Scouting skills with teamwork.

Compass and Estimation Games

• Compass Relay: Each Scout in a patrol takes a compass bearing and walks a set number of paces, then passes the compass to the next Scout. The patrol that ends closest to the target point wins.

Finding and Choosing a Game

You have two paths:

1. Pick from the merit badge pamphlet. The Scouting Heritage pamphlet lists several games with instructions.
2. Find one on your own. Search Scouting for Boys, old editions of the Scout Handbook, or the official resources below. Get your counselor’s approval before proceeding.

Reproducing the Equipment

“Reproduce the equipment” means you make or gather whatever is needed to play the game. This might include:

• A tray and objects for Kim’s Game
• Blindfolds for stalking games
• Trail sign materials (sticks, stones, chalk) for tracking games
• Rope for knot relays
• Compasses for navigation games
• First aid supplies for first aid relays

The equipment does not need to be elaborate. Use what you have and keep it simple — that is how Scouts in 1907 did it.

Teaching and Playing the Game

You must both teach and play the game with other Scouts. Plan to do this at a troop meeting, campout, or patrol activity:

1. Explain the game’s history. Tell the other Scouts where the game comes from and how it connects to early Scouting.
2. Teach the rules clearly. Demonstrate if possible.
3. Play the game. Make sure everyone participates and has fun.
4. Adapt as needed. If something is not working, adjust the rules on the fly — that is what a good game leader does.

Official Resources