There are two parts to Wood Badge in the Boy Scouts of America: the practical part and the application period. Both must be completed to receive the Wood Badge – two wooden beads to be worn around the neck on a leather thong.
The practical part is a two-weekend experience to demonstrate as practically as possible the aims and methods of Scouting. The course is a multifaceted presentation of leadership skills, organizational tools, and participatory activities based on the best Scouting traditions and the latest in team development theory. In addition, participants will enjoy the fellowship of learning along side many other Scouters, and along the way will have a great deal of fun.
The application part of Wood Badge is a period of up to 18 months during which the participants practice and demonstrate a working knowledge of the leadership principles presented during the course. This is accomplished by the use of the Wood Badge “ticket”, which represents the participants commitment to complete a set of personal goals related to their Scouting position. These goals will significantly strengthen the program in which the participant is involved.
Throughout the period of application, each participant is assigned a counselor who serves as a resource, an evaluator, and a Scouting friend. When the counselor and the participant determine that the new skills are understood and can be applied to their Scouting position, a recommendation is made for the Wood Badge to be awarded.