How does he earn his mark? *spoilers*
In the eyes of his family, he didn't do anything. The farm is still in bad shape and in need of some major work. The kid just got lost and made his way back. He didn't help the farm in any way and doesn't deserve a mark. Poppa Dinosaur must be rolling in his grave.
"The plastic tips at the end of shoelaces are called aglets. Their true purpose is sinister."