Re: Adult/Leader Patrols
Godbout, Marc (GodboutM@ANDOVERCONTROLS.COM)
Tue, 2 Dec 1997 08:12:07 -0500
Our troop has always let the boys fend for themselves. The patrols plan
and execute (sometimes literally :>) their own meals. The adults camp
and eat together. But we never abandon the boys. Our job is to keep a
watchful eye and make sure no-one goes around running with scissors.
However, this is not to say that we do this in lieu of the lead from
behind concept. In fact, I think it encourages it. For example, if we
feel that the day is getting late and the cooking should probably begin,
I'll talk to the SPL and have him suggest that to the patrol cook.
Then, it's up to them.
Also, my philosophy is that nobody will starve to death if they miss a
meal. Experience can be a great teacher. There was a manager
(unfortunately not mine) at a company I once worked for who felt that
his employees should all have the "opportunity to fail". These boys
will learn much more from a single failure than from any number of
lectures. And they will learn very little from being "saved" by an
adult.
I say give them the opportunity to fail. You'll be pleasantly surprised
at the leaders that will pop out of this.
Marc Godbout
SM Troop 98
ASM Troop 412
Derry, NH
http://www.tiac.net/users/godbout/troop98
> ----------
> From: Stephanie & Chris Everett[SMTP:everetts@ANNAP.INFI.NET]
> Reply To: Stephanie & Chris Everett
> Sent: Monday, December 01, 1997 8:58 PM
> To: Multiple recipients of list SCOUTS-L
> Subject: Adult/Leader Patrols
>
> I am looking to the collective wisdom of the List for advice regarding
> adult
> or leader patrols in a boy scout troop. The ASMs and a couple of the
> more
> active committee members (including me) would like to establish a
> leaders'
> patrol in our troop in order to (1) teach and lead the boys by example
> rather than trying to direct them from behind, and (2) to help keep
> the
> adults out of the boys' way so we can become a more boy-led troop.
> However,
> the SM is reluctant, because he fears we would be "abandoning" the
> boys,
> especially on campouts.
>
Terry Howerton Sakima Group, Inc. SCOUTER Magazine Kansas City | 
