Re: Webelos Bridging Problem
Andrew Hagemann (hagemann@VISI.NET)
Wed, 24 Dec 1997 18:33:05 -0500
Usually the Webelos Dens that "feed" our troop like to bridge in
February or March, but my Troop is willing to bridge a Webelos Den
whenever they're ready to cross. We don't structure our Troop's monthly
activities around when Webelos Dens usually join us. Instead, we take
them into our Troop as full members, and they can decide which outings
they wish to attend. Since these Webelos Dens have selected us as their
Troop well before winter comes, their parent's know well in advance what
our Troop is going to be doing when their son's join us. The eager kids
usually meet the gear requirements with no problem, and for those who
can't get what they need right away, we have a small loaner pool of good
quality gear in our Troop QM.
Usually our first joint Webelo Den-Troop 6 camping trip is in January
for our District's famous 26-year-old Klondike Derby. The Webelos are
usually well turned out, and if they're not their fathers are freezing
right along with them. (By the next camping trip most of the new Scouts
have the basic cold weather gear.)
This year we have an especially hot-to-go Webelos Den that wants to
bridge over during the Klondike Derby campfire. They're two months
"early", but so what?
Like John's, our Troop program is planned well in advance. We have
chosen a mix of activities that our entire Troop likes to attend. Some
are more strenuous than others, and more of the new Scouts attend those
trips than do the boys who put them on the schedule in the first place.
My advice to you, John, is to take those boys regardless of your Troop's
time table. Your SA in charge of the New Scout Patrol program can
integrate them easily into the Troop's activities if he's worth his
salt. Be tough on having the correct gear, holding week-before pack
inspections if necessary. If there is a trip that has
higher-than-average physical standards, don't tell any Scout "You're too
small, you can't come." Instead conduct a "tune-up" hike or camping
trip beforehand and let the unready Scout weed himself out.
Don't change a thing, and don't fret so, John. These youngsters joined
your Troop because of it's schedule, not in spite of it.
Regards,
Drew
--
Andrew Hagemann <hagemann@visi.net>
SA, New Scout Patrol, Troop 6 (Colonial Virginia Council)
A "Charging" Buffalo, SR-158 / Jamboree '97 Metal Work MB Booth
Coordinator
Terry Howerton Sakima Group, Inc. SCOUTER Magazine Kansas City |
