Scouting’s Teaching EDGE

The EDGE Method helps Scouts and leaders teach skills in a simple way. EDGE stands for Explain, Demonstrate, Guide, and Enable. It gives you four clear steps to follow when helping someone learn something new. Each step has a job to do. When used together, they make learning easier and more fun. The EDGE Method is part of how Scouts grow and learn by doing.

Scouting is about more than earning badges. It is about learning skills and teaching others. That is why the EDGE Method is part of the advancement requirements in Scouts BSA. For example, Scouts need to use this method when working on Tenderfoot and Life ranks. It shows that they know how to teach a skill, not just do it themselves.

The EDGE Method works in Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, and Venturing. Leaders use it to teach knots, cooking, first aid, and more. Older Scouts use it to teach younger Scouts. It can even be used outside of Scouting. Once you learn how it works, you can use it to teach just about anything.

EDGE is a tool that helps both the person teaching and the person learning. It helps build leadership and confidence. The person teaching learns how to break things down into simple steps. The person learning gets a chance to ask questions and try things at their own pace. Everyone gets a chance to grow.

Scouts do best when they know what is expected and have time to practice. The EDGE Method gives them that. It breaks learning into small, clear steps. That helps Scouts stay focused and not feel overwhelmed. First they hear how it works. Then they see it. Then they try it with help. Then they do it on their own. This way of learning helps Scouts feel proud of what they can do.

The EDGE Method is great for hands-on learners. Scouts like to do things, not just sit and listen. This method gives them a chance to move, practice, and repeat. When they make mistakes, they can fix them right away. That is better than just reading or watching a video. They learn by doing, and that sticks with them.

Another good thing about the EDGE Method is that it works for all ages. A Tiger Den leader can use it to teach a simple knot. A Venturing crew member can use it to teach how to set up camp. It works at any level, with any skill. That makes it easy for everyone in Scouting to use.

Teaching with EDGE also helps build leaders. When Scouts teach others, they get better at speaking and helping. They also learn to be patient and kind. These are skills they will use their whole life. EDGE is not just about learning skills. It helps make better leaders.

The first step is Explain. This is when the teacher tells the learner what they are about to do. The goal is to give a simple and clear overview. No need to give too many details yet. Just say what the skill is and what steps are involved. A good explanation makes it easier for the learner to know what to expect.

Next comes Demonstrate. In this step, the teacher shows the learner how to do the skill. They do the skill slowly and explain while doing it. This helps the learner see exactly how it works. A good demonstration is calm and clear. It gives the learner a picture in their mind of what they will be doing.

After the demonstration, it is time to Guide. This is where the learner tries the skill while the teacher helps. The teacher gives tips, fixes small mistakes, and answers questions. This is an important step. It gives the learner a chance to practice with support. The teacher stays close but lets the learner do most of the work.

The last step is Enable. This is when the learner tries the skill alone. The teacher watches but does not help unless asked. This shows if the learner really understands. If they do well, they are ready to use the skill on their own. If they still need help, they can go back and try again. That is part of learning too.

Each step in EDGE builds on the one before. You cannot skip steps. If you do, the learner might feel confused or frustrated. Taking it slow and steady helps Scouts feel proud of what they learn. The EDGE Method works when you follow each step carefully.

Let’s say you want to teach your den how to make paper airplanes. First, you Explain. You tell the Scouts that they will fold a piece of paper into a flying plane. You explain that there are about five folds, and they need to be neat and straight. You do not need to go into every detail yet. Just help them understand the goal.

Now it’s time to Demonstrate. You take a sheet of paper and slowly fold it into a paper airplane. While folding, you explain each move out loud. You make sure everyone can see what you are doing. You don’t go too fast. You show them how to fold the nose, the wings, and the tail. When you are done, you show them how it flies.

Then you Guide. You pass out paper and help each Scout follow the steps. You repeat the directions and walk around to help. Some Scouts may fold too fast or in the wrong direction. You help them fix it. You remind them to press the folds flat. You give tips and encouragement. They get better with practice.

Finally, you Enable. You give each Scout a new sheet of paper and ask them to make another airplane on their own. You watch quietly to see how they do. If someone gets stuck, you give them a chance to try again. When everyone is done, you test the planes and celebrate. Now they know how to make a paper airplane.

This small lesson shows how EDGE works. You do not need fancy tools or a big setup. Just a clear plan, simple steps, and patience. Even fun activities like this can teach skills in a good way.

In Cub Scouts, leaders often use EDGE without even realizing it. For example, teaching a Bear Scout how to tie a square knot can follow the EDGE steps. You first Explain the knot and when it’s used. Then you Demonstrate how to tie it. You Guide the Cub while they try. Then you Enable them to try alone. This simple approach helps Cub Scouts learn faster.

In Scouts BSA, EDGE is used by youth leaders too. A Scout teaching first aid uses EDGE to help another Scout learn how to treat a cut. First they Explain what to do. Then they Demonstrate with a fake wound. They Guide as the other Scout tries. Finally, they Enable them to do it again alone. This method helps both Scouts.

Venturers can use EDGE during crew activities. Maybe they are planning a trip and someone needs to learn how to use a camp stove. The crew member can Explain the stove, Demonstrate how to light it, Guide the other Venturer through a practice run, and then Enable them to cook something on their own. It builds skills and teamwork.

EDGE works for group games too. A leader can teach a new game using EDGE. They explain the rules, show how to play, guide the group through a trial round, and then step back and let them run the game. It gives youth more ownership and confidence.

No matter what age group or activity, the EDGE Method helps. It makes teaching simple. It gives a clear path for learning. And it works well in all parts of Scouting.

Teaching with EDGE is a great way to help youth lead. When Scouts teach others, they learn how to speak clearly, be patient, and solve problems. These are skills they will use in school, at work, and in life. The EDGE Method gives them a tool to lead and teach well.

Adults can support Scouts by letting them use EDGE. That means stepping back a little and letting them try. It can be hard to watch them make small mistakes. But that’s how they learn. If they struggle, we can gently guide them, but we should let them take the lead.

Teaching with EDGE also helps Scouts feel proud. When they see someone else learn because of their help, they feel strong and capable. It builds their confidence. It also reminds them that learning takes time. They become more respectful and kind to others who are just beginning.

We should make EDGE part of our Scouting culture. Encourage Scouts to use it in meetings, on campouts, and during merit badge work. Make it a habit. When youth teach with EDGE, they grow. When adults support them in doing it, everyone wins.

Scouting is about learning and growing together. The EDGE Method is a simple way to teach. But more than that, it helps us build a strong, caring Scouting community.

Click here to download a printable PDF copy of the steps.

Video Explanation of the EDGE Method

Scouts BSA Advancements Which Require the EDGE Method

The use of the EDGE method is required for the Tenderfoot rank and the Life rank:

Tenderfoot 8. Describe the steps in Scouting’s Teaching EDGE method. Use the Teaching EDGE method to teach another person how to tie the square knot.

Life 6: While a Star Scout, use the Teaching EDGE method to teach another Scout (preferably younger than you) the skills from ONE of the following choices, so that the Scout is prepared to pass those requirements to their Scoutmaster’s satisfaction. Tenderfoot – 4a and 4b (first aid), Second Class – 2b, 2c, and 2d (cooking/camping).

What does EDGE stand for?

EDGE stands for Explain, Demonstrate, Guide, and Enable. These are the four steps used to teach a skill in Scouting.

Who uses the EDGE Method?

Everyone in Scouting can use it. Den leaders use it to teach Cub Scouts. Scouts use it to teach each other. Venturers and adults use it too. It works at all levels.

Why is the EDGE Method important?

It helps Scouts learn skills in a simple and clear way. It also helps Scouts practice leadership by teaching others.

Is EDGE required for rank advancement?

Yes, in Scouts BSA. A Scout must use EDGE to teach a skill when working toward Tenderfoot and Life ranks.

Can Cub Scouts use EDGE too?

Yes. Even though it is not required for rank, Cub Scouts can still learn and teach with EDGE. It helps them understand and remember what they learn.

How do I know if I’m using EDGE the right way?

Make sure you follow all four steps in order. First, explain the skill. Then, show how it’s done. Next, help the learner try it. Last, let them do it alone.

Do I need special tools or equipment to use EDGE?

No. You just need a plan and a skill to teach. You can use EDGE to teach simple or advanced skills. It works in any setting.

Can EDGE be used outside of Scouting?

Yes. You can use it at home, in school, or at work. It is a good way to teach anyone a new skill.

How long does it take to teach with EDGE?

It depends on the skill. Some things can be taught in a few minutes. Others may take longer. The key is to take your time and go step by step.

What if the learner doesn’t understand right away?

That’s okay. Go back to an earlier step. You can explain or demonstrate again. Some people need more time or practice, and that’s normal.

The EDGE Method gives Scouts a clear and easy way to teach skills. It is not fancy or hard to remember. Just four simple steps: Explain, Demonstrate, Guide, and Enable. These steps help Scouts learn new things and teach others with confidence.

When youth use EDGE, they are not just learning skills. They are learning how to lead. Teaching takes patience and practice. EDGE helps them build those habits in a way that makes sense. It gives structure to learning and helps things go more smoothly.

Adults can use EDGE too. Den leaders and Scoutmasters can use it to teach everything from knots to knife safety. It works well with groups of all ages. You don’t need a lot of prep or special gear. Just a plan and a good attitude.

So next time your Scouts need to teach or learn something new, try using EDGE. It keeps things simple. It keeps things clear. And it works. That’s the Scout way to teach.