I recently read a post by Jerry over at The Scoutmaster Minute Blog and I just wanted to expand on his ideas a little. The idea that adult leaders are basically adults leaders and role models 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year should also be expanded to include senior youth leaders. Youth leaders just like adult leaders are expected to set the example for other scouts whether they are in or out of uniform or participating in or not participating in a scout activity.
The problem is that many adults and youth's think that a leader has a on and off switch in life and can behave in a excellent manner half the time and not behave in a excellent manner the other half. Youth leaders setting a good example is especially important because of the fact that the youth leaders have the most direct form of contact with the really young and new scouts.
Jerry's post can be found here.
Yours in Scouting Service
Mark W
Junior Assistant Scoutmaster
Troop 1616
