Reacting, Rules and Resolutions

Scoutmasters tend to respond to problems by instituting rules or policies.

Rules must be enforced to have effect so Scoutmasters become enforcers.

In working with Scout-aged boys one quickly discovers that there are very few rules that do not have legitimate exceptions, so Scoutmasters become judges.

As the matrix of rules and policies grow Scoutmasters may find that most of their time is spent in making, enforcing and interpreting them.

The real job of the Scoutmaster is to seek resolution to difficulties rather than reacting to them with rule making.

When a concern arises the Scoutmaster should form a question for his youth leadership; “It has come to my attention that a few Scouts showed up for our last outing without the proper gear. How do you suggest we avoid this in the future?”

Most Scouts will jump on such an open-ended question with great energy and discuss a plan of action. That they own the resulting plan of action increases the likelihood that it will have the desired effect.