Scoutmaster Conference

I forget who posted the original question on the Scoutmaster
Conference and I have read some good responses.
I have used the Scoutmaster Conference to review the boy's
accomplishments, like MB's earned, what is needed for his
next advancement, leadership positions held/needed, and then
help him set some goals. If he needs six months time in
grade for this next rank, what does he want from us during
this time, what does he plan on doing to complete the next
needed MB's, when does he plan on earning his eagle, etc.
and have him write down some of these goals. The piece of
paper sometimes makes it through the wash, sometimes not,
but at least I have something to remind the boy of his
goals, because I keep a copy of them.
I also do a uniform inspection. Our BOR's have sent some
boys right back out if they weren't in proper uniform. BTW,
I do the Scoutmaster Conf.'s the week before the BOR, and
remind them of the need for proper uniform. And finally, I
use the SM conference to find out if there is anything
wrong. How are you? Is everything OK? How are you doing in
school? How's your little sister? Last time you told me she
was sick, is she OK now? You would be surprised how many
boys will tell you something they might not tell their
parents, if you just act like you really care.
I plan ten to fifteen minutes for each SM Conference, and we
go off in a corner of the room, within sight of everyone
else, but where it is quieter. I used to take another scout
or another adult along (the rule of "three" for child
protection) but I found the boys were more uncomfortable and
didn't open up as much.
That's my 2 cents worth.
Rik Bergethon

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