Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge

Free Resources and Answers

Time: 2–4 weeks
Difficulty: Easy, Moderate
Setting: Indoor, community activities
Best For: Scouts interested in service, inclusion, understanding others
Hands-On Level: Low, Moderate
Eagle Required: No

The Disabilities Awareness merit badge helps you learn about the experiences of people with disabilities and how you can make your community more welcoming and inclusive. As you work on this badge, you will discover that disabilities can affect people in many different ways. You will also learn that every person has unique strengths, talents, and abilities.

This merit badge encourages you to go beyond reading about disabilities in a book. You will meet people, visit organizations, and explore how individuals with disabilities live, work, learn, and participate in their communities. These experiences can help you better understand the challenges some people face and the importance of treating everyone with respect.

You will also learn about accessibility, disability rights, and ways to support inclusion in everyday life. By sharing what you learn with others, you can help build awareness and make a positive difference. The lessons from this badge can help you become a more thoughtful Scout, leader, and citizen.

Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge requirements

Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge Pamphlet

Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge Printable Requirement Check Off Sheet

Printable check off sheet for all Scouts BSA merit badges

Find specific helps for the Disabilities Awareness merit badge requirements listed on this page. Some of these resources will just give the answers. Others will provide engaging ways for older Scouts to introduce these concepts to new Scouts.

• Requirement 1: Terms
• Requirement 2: Visit
• Requirement 3: Experiences
• Requirement 4: Accommodations
• Requirement 5: Advocacy
• Requirement 6: Commitment
• Requirement 7: Professions
• Additional Resources

Requirement 1a: Disabilities Awareness Terms

What You Need To Do

Discuss several important disability awareness terms with your counselor. Be ready to talk about what each term means and how it relates to everyday life.

Helpful Tips

• A disability is a condition that affects a person’s ability to do certain daily activities.
• Accessibility means making places, services, and activities usable for everyone.
• An adaptation is a change made to a place, tool, or activity so more people can use it.
• An accommodation is an adjustment that helps a person participate successfully. Extra test time is one example.
• An invisible disability is not easy to see. Examples include some learning disabilities, chronic illnesses, and mental health conditions.
• Person-first language puts the person before the disability. For example, “person with a disability” focuses on the individual first.
• Inclusion means people with disabilities take part in activities alongside everyone else.
• Accessibility and inclusion work together. One removes barriers while the other encourages participation.

Resources

• We Need to Talk About Disability (video)
• Disability Isn’t a Dirty Word (video)
• Words Matter! Disability Language Etiquette (website)

Leader Tips

• Use real-life examples Scouts see at school, meetings, and public places.
• Encourage discussion instead of memorizing definitions.
• Point out accessibility features during outings and events.
• Help Scouts connect these terms to everyday situations.

Requirement 1b: Disability Etiquette

What You Need To Do

Discuss why disability etiquette matters. Share three examples of respectful behavior for people with different disabilities.

Helpful Tips

• Good disability etiquette helps people feel respected and included.
• Always speak directly to the person, even when an interpreter or helper is present.
• Ask before offering help. Some people may not need assistance.
• Do not touch wheelchairs, service animals, canes, or other assistive devices without permission.
• For people with visual impairments, introduce yourself and give clear directions.
• For people who are deaf or hard of hearing, face them when speaking and keep your mouth visible.
• For people with developmental disabilities, use clear language and allow extra time for responses.
• Invisible disabilities may not be obvious. Avoid making assumptions about a person’s abilities or needs.
• Some people with autism prefer limited physical contact and direct communication.

Resources

• Disability Etiquette – Respectful Ways to Interact With People With Disabilities (video)
• Sportable Disability Etiquette (video)
• Disability Sensitivity (video)
• Not Special Needs | March 21 – World Down Syndrome Day (video)

Leader Tips

• Use role-playing activities to practice respectful interactions.
• Remind Scouts that each person has different preferences and needs.
• Focus on treating people with courtesy and dignity.
• Encourage questions and discussion in a respectful setting.

Requirement 2: Visit an Agency

What You Need To Do

Visit an agency that serves people with disabilities. Gather information about its programs and services, then discuss what you found with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Choose an agency that serves people with physical, mental, emotional, or educational disabilities.
• Contact the agency before your visit and ask if visitors are allowed.
• Bring a notebook to record information during the visit.
• Ask about the agency’s mission and the services it provides.
• Find out what training programs are available for the people it serves.
• Ask about employment opportunities, job coaching, or workplace support programs.
• Look for information about educational programs, classes, or tutoring services.
• Collect brochures, pamphlets, or other printed materials if available.
• Pay attention to accessibility features such as ramps, elevators, automatic doors, and accessible restrooms.
• Review your notes after the visit so you can discuss the agency’s work with your counselor.

Resources

• Mychal’s Learning Place (video)
• In Our Own Voice (video)
• From Concept to Crag: Students Design Adaptive Sports Equipment to Help Classmate Climb (website)

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts identify local agencies that welcome visitors.
• Encourage Scouts to prepare questions before the visit.
• Remind Scouts to be respectful of privacy and agency rules.
• Discuss the visit afterward and help Scouts connect it to disability awareness and inclusion.

Requirement 3a: Talk With a Scout

What You Need To Do

Talk with a Scout who has a disability about Scouting activities and merit badges. Discuss the Scout’s experiences with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Ask the Scout about favorite activities in Scouting.
• Find out what merit badges the Scout has earned.
• Ask about challenges during meetings, campouts, or advancement.
• Talk about adaptations or accommodations used during activities.
• Ask which parts of Scouting are most enjoyable.
• Listen carefully and let the Scout share personal experiences.
• Be respectful and avoid questions that seem too personal.
• Take notes so you can remember important points later.
• Look for examples of inclusion within the troop or crew.

Resources

• 12-Year-Old Boy Overcomes Disability to Pursue Sports, Adventures (video)
• Philmont Scout Ranch: Zia Adaptive Trek (video)

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts find a willing participant for the discussion.
• Encourage respectful and thoughtful questions.
• Remind Scouts to focus on experiences rather than disabilities.
• Allow time for reflection after the conversation.

Requirement 3b: Talk With a Person

What You Need To Do

Talk with a person who has a disability about daily life and favorite activities. Discuss what you learned with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Choose a person who is comfortable sharing experiences.
• Ask about hobbies, interests, and community activities.
• Discuss school, work, sports, or volunteer opportunities.
• Listen more than you speak during the conversation.
• Be polite and respectful at all times.
• Ask open-ended questions that encourage conversation.
• Avoid making assumptions about abilities or limitations.
• Record key points to review later with your counselor.
• Focus on the person’s experiences and interests.

Resources

• We Asked 5 People With Disability Some Questions Before International Day of People With Disability (video)
• Kids Ask Questions About Disability (video)

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts prepare a list of questions before meeting.
• Encourage active listening during the discussion.
• Remind Scouts to respect privacy and personal boundaries.
• Discuss the conversation afterward and review key points.

Requirement 3c: Adaptive Sports and Recreation

What You Need To Do

Research an adaptive sport or recreational activity. Discuss how people with disabilities participate and what equipment or modifications are used.

Helpful Tips

• Adaptive sports use modified equipment, rules, or techniques.
• Wheelchair basketball uses sports wheelchairs designed for quick movement.
• Goalball is played by athletes with visual impairments using a ball with bells inside.
• Sled hockey allows players to move across the ice using sleds and short sticks.
• Adaptive skiing uses specialized skis and seating systems.
• Handcycles are powered with the arms instead of the legs.
• Adaptive recreation can include hiking, climbing, fishing, and kayaking.
• Look for local programs that offer adaptive sports opportunities.
• Pay attention to how adaptations help athletes participate fully.

Resources

• Alison’s Story (video)
• International Day of Persons with Disabilities | Paralympic Games (video)
• THIS is Special Olympics! (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to research a sport they find interesting.
• Use videos or demonstrations when available.
• Discuss how adaptations remove barriers to participation.
• Connect the activity to inclusion in sports and recreation.

Requirement 3d: Independent Living Aids

What You Need To Do

Research independent living aids and communication devices. Discuss how these tools help people with disabilities in daily life.

Helpful Tips

• Service animals perform specific tasks for people with disabilities.
• White canes help people with visual impairments travel safely.
• Hearing aids make sounds louder and clearer.
• Captioned telephones display written captions during phone calls.
• Videophones allow communication using sign language through video.
• Screen readers read digital text aloud.
• Mobility scooters help people travel longer distances.
• Grab bars provide support in bathrooms and other locations.
• Communication devices can produce speech or display messages.
• Many aids increase independence and access to everyday activities.

Resources

• Walking a Route with my Guide Dog (video)
• Disability Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All: My Mobility Aid Toolkit (video)
• How I Navigate as a Blind Person – 5 Tools I Use to Travel Safely (video)
• Service Animals (website)
• Bridging Apps (video)

Leader Tips

• Bring examples or pictures of different aids when possible.
• Discuss how technology improves accessibility.
• Encourage Scouts to focus on the purpose of each device.
• Relate the discussion to everyday activities and independence.

Requirement 3e: Disability Awareness Activity

What You Need To Do

Plan or take part in an activity that helps people experience or explore challenges related to visible or invisible disabilities. Discuss the activity with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Choose an activity that promotes respect and awareness.
• A wheelchair obstacle course can highlight accessibility challenges.
• A blindfold activity can demonstrate alternative ways of completing tasks.
• A silent communication game can show different communication methods.
• An accessibility audit can identify barriers in a building or meeting place.
• Activities should focus on awareness, inclusion, and accessibility.
• Follow all safety rules during simulations and demonstrations.
• Discuss the experience afterward and record important observations.
• Consider both visible disabilities and invisible disabilities when planning the activity.

Resources

• I Can Do That With One Hand Behind My Back Game (website)
• Vision Loss Simulation Instructions (PDF)
• Eye Disease Vision Simulator (video)
• Amazing Things Happen! (video)

Leader Tips

• Select activities that are safe and age appropriate.
• Focus discussions on accessibility and inclusion.
• Encourage respectful participation and reflection.
• Help Scouts connect the activity to real-world situations.

Requirement 4A: Accessibility Features

What You Need To Do

Visit two locations and evaluate how accessible they are for people with disabilities. Record features that help people participate and identify areas where accessibility could be improved.

Helpful Tips

• Look for ramps, elevators, and automatic doors.
• Check whether accessible parking spaces are available near entrances.
• Visit restrooms and look for accessible stalls and grab bars.
• Look for signs with large print or Braille.
• Check whether pathways are wide enough for wheelchairs and walkers.
• Look for seating areas that can be used by people with mobility devices.
• Observe whether exhibits, stages, or activity areas are easy to reach.
• Make notes about five accessibility features that work well.
• Make notes about five changes that could improve accessibility.
• Take photos if allowed and permitted by the location.

Resources

• NYC Students With Disabilities Speaking About Accessible Schools (video)
• Special Needs Prepared Camps (website)

Leader Tips

• Remind Scouts to focus on accessibility features rather than judging the location.
• Encourage detailed notes and specific examples.
• Help Scouts identify barriers that may not be obvious at first glance.
• Review observations before the discussion with the counselor.

Requirement 4B: Invisible Disability Accommodations

What You Need To Do

Visit two locations and look for ways they support people with invisible disabilities. Ask staff about accommodations that may not be immediately visible and discuss your findings with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Invisible disabilities can include autism, ADHD, anxiety disorders, chronic illnesses, and some learning disabilities.
• Ask staff about quiet areas or sensory-friendly spaces.
• Find out if flexible scheduling or extra assistance is available.
• Look for written instructions that support different learning styles.
• Ask whether staff receive training related to disability awareness.
• Check for accessible websites, printed materials, or communication options.
• Look for rest areas where people can take breaks if needed.
• Ask about accommodations for people with sensory sensitivities.
• Record examples of accommodations that already exist.
• Identify changes that could make the location more welcoming and accessible.

Resources

• Accommodations and Difficulties. (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to ask respectful questions when speaking with staff.
• Help Scouts consider disabilities that are not immediately visible.
• Focus discussions on inclusion and participation.
• Review notes together before meeting with the counselor.

Requirement 5a: Disabilities Awareness Presentation

What You Need To Do

Give a disabilities awareness presentation to a Cub Scout pack or another group. Include person-first language during your presentation.

Helpful Tips

• Advocacy means speaking up for the rights, needs, and inclusion of others.
• Choose a topic related to disabilities awareness and accessibility.
• Use person-first language throughout your presentation.
• Say “person with a disability” instead of “disabled person.”
• Say “person who uses a wheelchair” instead of “wheelchair-bound person.”
• Say “person who is deaf” instead of “the deaf.”
• Say “person with autism” instead of “autistic person”.
• Remember that the person comes before the disability in the description.
• Include examples of inclusion in school, Scouting, and the community.
• Use pictures, posters, or slides to keep the audience interested.
• Practice your presentation before giving it.
• Leave time for questions at the end.
• Keep your message respectful and positive.

Resources

• The View From Here: My Path to Disability Advocacy | Liam Doyle (video)

Leader Tips

• Review the presentation plan before the event.
• Help Scouts practice speaking clearly and confidently.
• Encourage the use of respectful language throughout the presentation.
• Provide feedback after the presentation is complete.

Requirement 5b: Volunteer With a Program

What You Need To Do

Volunteer for eight hours with a disabilities awareness program or advocacy agency. Discuss your experience with your counselor after completing your service.

Helpful Tips

• Look for schools, community programs, or advocacy organizations that need volunteers.
• Contact the organization early to arrange volunteer opportunities.
• Keep track of your service hours.
• Be dependable and arrive on time.
• Ask questions about the organization’s mission and programs.
• Observe how the organization supports people with disabilities.
• Record activities and experiences in a notebook.
• Follow all rules and instructions from staff members.
• Reflect on how the experience connects to inclusion and accessibility.

Resources

• Here’s How You Can Support People With Disabilities (video)

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts locate appropriate volunteer opportunities.
• Encourage Scouts to keep a record of hours and activities.
• Discuss expectations before service begins.
• Review the experience after the volunteer work is completed.

Requirement 5c: Myths and Misconceptions

What You Need To Do

Research myths and misconceptions about disabilities and compare them with the facts. Create a presentation and share it with a Cub Scout pack or another group.

Helpful Tips

• Many disabilities are invisible and cannot be identified by appearance alone.
• People with disabilities participate in jobs, sports, hobbies, and community activities.
• Accessibility features benefit many different people.
• Most people with disabilities live independently.
• People with the same disability can have very different experiences.
• Wheelchair users may be able to stand or walk for short periods.
• Hearing loss affects people in different ways.
• Mental health conditions do not make someone dangerous.
• Inclusive education benefits many students.
• Assistive devices help people participate but do not remove every barrier.
• Research each myth carefully and record the facts that correct it.
• Organize your information into a presentation that is easy to follow.

Resources

• Myths and Facts About People with Disabilities (website)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to use reliable sources for research.
• Review myths and facts for accuracy before the presentation.
• Help Scouts organize information clearly.
• Focus discussions on respect, inclusion, and awareness.

Requirement 6: Personal Commitment

What You Need To Do

Make a personal commitment to support people with disabilities and encourage positive attitudes in others. Discuss how your views and awareness have changed while working on this merit badge.

Helpful Tips

• Advocacy includes actions that support inclusion, accessibility, and respect.
• Create a commitment that includes specific actions you can follow.
• Use person-first language when talking about people with disabilities.
• Treat people with disabilities the same courtesy and respect you show everyone else.
• Include others in activities whenever possible.
• Challenge myths and misconceptions when you hear them.
• Pay attention to accessibility barriers in your community.
• Support accommodations that help people participate fully.
• Reflect on experiences from visits, conversations, and activities completed for this badge.
• Consider how your attitudes, actions, and awareness have changed during the merit badge process.

Resources

• Changing Attitudes Towards Disability (website)
• Understanding Disabilities (video)
• 7 Ways to Actually Keep the Commitments You Make to Yourself (website)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to create realistic and meaningful commitments.
• Ask Scouts for specific examples of actions they plan to take.
• Discuss ways Scouts can promote inclusion in Scouting and everyday life.
• Help Scouts reflect on how their perspectives have changed during the badge.

Requirement 7: Disability Service Professions

What You Need To Do

Identify five professions that provide services to people with disabilities. Choose one profession to research and discuss the education, training, and experience needed for that career.

Helpful Tips

• Select a career that matches your interests and skills.
• Research the education required for the profession.
• Find out whether a college degree, certification, or special license is needed.
• Look for information about daily job responsibilities.
• Research where professionals in this field work.
• Find out what types of disabilities they work with.
• Learn about any internships, volunteer opportunities, or hands-on experience required.
• Record notes so you can discuss your findings with your counselor.
• Be ready to explain why the profession interests you.
• Compare several careers before choosing one to research in depth.

Careers To Consider

• Occupational Therapist
• Physical Therapist
• Speech-Language Pathologist
• Special Education Teacher
• Rehabilitation Counselor
• Audiologist
• Social Worker
• Recreational Therapist
• Job Coach
• Assistive Technology Specialist
• Psychologist
• Psychiatrist
• Developmental Pediatrician
• Neurologist
• Nurse
• Orientation and Mobility Specialist
• Sign Language Interpreter
• Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
• Adaptive Sports Coach
• Disability Services Coordinator

Resources

• 10 Rewarding Careers for Those Who Want to Work With Children With Special Needs (website)
• Discover the Best Careers for Helping People With Disabilities (website)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to choose a profession they genuinely find interesting.
• Help Scouts locate reliable career information sources.
• Discuss different ways professionals support people with disabilities.
• Ask Scouts how the profession connects to skills and interests they already have.

Special Needs Awareness Program Feature for Scouts BSA

The BSA’s Special Needs Awareness program feature is a useful supplement for Scouts working on the Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge. The program offers structured activities sorted by difficulty, covering topics like understanding disabilities, adaptive sports, and accessibility.

These activities align well with multiple badge requirements, such as understanding various types of disabilities and advocating for more inclusive spaces. The feature even includes community involvement opportunities like volunteering, which could satisfy the volunteer requirement of the badge. Overall, it’s a practical resource for a more thorough understanding of disabilities awareness.

More Merit Badge Resources

The Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge fits well in the merit badge program because it helps Scouts see the value of every person. It adds a human focus alongside badges about skills, science, and the outdoors. Scouts learn to notice barriers that people face and to think about ways to make activities more welcoming. This supports the program’s goal of helping Scouts gain practical skills and a caring attitude.

With a wide range of badges to choose from, each Scout can explore different interests. The Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge gives them a chance to grow in empathy. It helps Scouts understand that respect and inclusion matter in every setting.

Learn More about Scouts BSA

The Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge supports the larger Scouts BSA program by helping Scouts grow as leaders. Good leadership starts with understanding others and treating people with dignity. This badge encourages Scouts to pay attention to needs around them and respond with patience and support.

It also connects to citizenship and personal development. Scouts learn how communities can be designed so everyone can take part. They see how small actions can make a big difference. This builds character, responsibility, and a healthy sense of service.

What is the purpose of the Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge?

It’s a merit badge designed to educate Scouts about the challenges faced by people with disabilities and to promote a culture of inclusivity and respect.

Who can earn the Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge?

Any youth member of Scouts BSA, or any qualified Venturer or Sea Scout can earn the badge.

What are the main requirements for the Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge?

Requirements range from understanding disabilities and etiquette to hands-on activities like volunteering and making spaces accessible.

How does earning the Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge benefit a Scout?

It fosters a sense of civic responsibility and increases awareness about the challenges faced by people with disabilities. These life skills are invaluable in both personal and professional settings.

Does the Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge focus solely on physical disabilities?

No, the badge covers a broad range of disabilities including physical, emotional, mental, and educational, aiming for a comprehensive understanding.

How does the Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge benefit society?

By educating the younger generation about disabilities, it aims to reduce stigma and discrimination, encouraging a more inclusive society.

Do I need to work with a counselor for the Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge?

Yes, you need to work with a registered Merit Badge Counselor.

What’s the role of the counselor in completing the Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge?

The counselor guides you through the requirements, offers valuable insights, and verifies that you’ve met the objectives for earning the badge.

What’s Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge Requirement 1 about?

Requirement 1 focuses on understanding basic terms and etiquette related to disabilities.

What are adaptive sports, as mentioned in Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge Requirement 3?

These are sports modified or created to allow people with disabilities to participate.

Can group activities count toward Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge requirements?

Yes, as long as they meet the criteria specified in the merit badge requirements.

Can the work done for the Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge be used in other community service or school projects?

Yes, the volunteer hours and research could potentially be applied to other community or educational initiatives, but check the specific rules for each.

What is “person-first language,” in the context of Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge Requirement 5?

This term refers to the practice of putting the individual before their disability in language, like saying “person with a disability” instead of “disabled person.”

Are there any prerequisites for starting the Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge?

No, there are no prerequisites; you can start working on this merit badge at any time.

What can parents do to support their Scout in earning the Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge?

Parents can assist in finding volunteer opportunities, offer insights, and encourage conversations that enhance understanding and empathy.

What impact do Scouts aim to achieve by earning the Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge?

The objective is not just personal growth but also to act as advocates for inclusivity in their communities.

Are there any other Scouting activities that pair well with the Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge?

Activities related to citizenship, community service, and personal development can complement the knowledge and skills gained through this badge.

The Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge helps Scouts look at the world with fresh eyes. It encourages them to notice the challenges some people face each day. It also shows how small acts of patience and kindness can make life easier for others. Scouts learn that everyone has gifts to share. Many people overcome great obstacles with courage and creativity.

This badge also guides Scouts to think about access. They explore how buildings, programs, and communities can be welcoming. Scouts learn that good design helps everyone, not only those with disabilities. They see how teamwork and respect build stronger groups. The Disabilities Awareness Merit Badge invites Scouts to listen, ask thoughtful questions, and grow in understanding.

Scouts also take part in activities that help them imagine different experiences. These tasks remind them to slow down and look for ways to support others. When Scouts finish the badge, they are better prepared to treat each person with dignity and care.