Here’s three handy phrases for Scoutmasters from an interview on next week’s podcast. You may find these useful in any number of situations.
How would you use these phrases?
About Clarke Green
Inspiration, Information and Ideas for Scout Leaders
In our troop the adult leaders answer the most common questions with a affirmation and a question. “That’s a great question. Who should you ask?”
I like that Ed, I am sure I’ll use it soon!
All are good. I can think of a number of ways fo using those. 3 of my favorites:
“Have you asked your PL?” for scouts.
“Have you asked your SPL?” for PLs.
“Don’t ask me, I’m only a leader.” for adults. :)-
The last one I got from a patch I received in the UK.
As a Deaf Scouter, Number 1 is vital! What is even more amazing is that in Scouts MANY Scouters even join hands quickly to help implement changes with a willingness, a smile and/ or a suggestion of a way to make it better! Not something one sees in everyday with work, community and etc. Goes a long way in showing that Scouter really believe and live the ‘service to others’ philosophy and ‘Helpful’ in the oath.
1. Love it – Learn by doing and making mistakes!
2. This one I’m not so sure about.
3. We say this every year at summer camp when the new scouts join us from cubs. It’s an adjustment, but we can’t do everything the way the cubs did. Sometimes us Scouters need some patience to say this calmly. 😉
4. “This is a boy-run program.”
5. “Ask your son.”
6. “What do you mean your Mom forgot to pack it?”
7. “Ask the SPL.”
Without hearing the podcast yet, off the top of my head I can think of about 5 situations for each sentence. I can hardly wait for the podcast. SMJ
I agree 100% with these sayings. We have new parents in our troop that has grown from 8 to 22 in the past 4 months. It is about educating the new parents. As stated, A boy led troop is not one way, its the ONLY way to run a successful troop. Working with a new PLC, if something doesnt work, we do the stop, start, continue method for new agendas, tasks, etc.
a. Can’t think of a good application. Now “If it doesn’t work THEY can always change it.” is a good one.
b. “I see no reason to stand in their way.” Is useful when talking to parents and Troop committees.
c. A bit sarcastic, but useful at Roundtables when discussing something with the other Scoutmasters, or with new DEs and with Unit Commissioners..
My favorite response “I don’t know, I’m not in charge of this troop”
I love that one. Might have an occasion or two to use it!