Leaders

What to do when older Scouts just want to hang out

Scouter S.C.’s troop tries to keep older Scouts busy teaching skills to younger boys, but a few just want to hang out with their friends. He’s looking for suggestions to keep these older Scouts engaged in the troop program.

Leader Advice and Inspiration

How do you best serve a troop with many leaders?

An assistant Scoutmaster says he feels unneeded in a troop with many adult leaders. Readers urge him to get plenty of training and use his skills and interests to find leadership opportunities.

Leaders

Advice for preparing to become a Scoutmaster

In our September issue, G.P. said he wanted to start a Boy Scout troop and that he had taken the first phase of Scoutmaster training. “Besides continuing training, what else can I do to ready myself for becoming a Scoutmaster?” he asked.

Leader Advice and Inspiration

Tips for encouraging a large troop to be boy-led

Readers respond to a unit committee member who asked how a troop of 100 boys might provide Scouts with opportunities to lead when adults find it easier to assume the leadership roles.

Leader Advice and Inspiration

How packs can boost attendance during the summer

When pack treasurer J.S. asked for ways to stimulate participation in summertime pack and den activities, reader suggestions included focusing on family involvement and “thinking big” when planning special events.

Leader Advice and Inspiration

What to do when older Scouts stay aloof

After a three-year drought of new members, J.R.’s troop has had an influx of new Scouts. “How can we get our older boys to mingle with the new guys and show them what to do, instead of doing it for them because it’s easier?” he asked.