How to Train a Scout Leader

Trained scout leaders must complete a battery of courses before they are entitled to wear the trained leader emblem. The emblem symbolizes that the scout leader is proficient and properly educated as a leader. Such trained leaders know how to protect the younger, less experienced scouts and coordinate safe and effective scouting events. Training a scout leader requires that you have mastered these skills and have become certified to train other scoutmasters. Workshops and clinics are part of the required training before you can train leaders.

Instructions

    • 1

      Contact The Boy Scouts of America for information on attending "The Trainer's Edge" workshop and clinic, to learn the skills necessary to train other scout leaders. You will be required to submit an application, contact information and discuss your experience as a scoutmaster. Only a select number of applicants are selected each year for the program.

    • 2

      Learn how to teach through modeling. Scoutmaster trainers must learn to communicate with the trainee using visual, kinetic and verbal information. Organize your methods of teaching so that your information informs and educates. An example used in "The Trainer's Edge" involves holding two glasses. One is empty and the other is full. The trainer asks for suggestions on how to transfer the liquid to the empty glass. A discussion then follows regarding how to transfer information using modeling and practice.

    • 3

      Practice using body language to effectively communicate with the person or group you are teaching. For example, while communicating with a trainee, keep your hand open to indicate a warm, welcoming attitude. Avoid pointing at him, since this may be seen as aggressive.

    • 4

      Obtain the proper training tools from "The Teachers Edge" program, and participate in the clinic to learn how to use the materials. You will be required to prepare a presentation, explain teaching methods and scouting procedures, and discuss best practices for working with kids.

    • 5

      Teach the trainee how to deal with different personalities in the scout troop. The disruptive questioner can be deterred by asking the class for an answer. Negative personalities can often be deflected with humor. The know-it-all should be reminded of the importance of group discussion. "War story tellers" must be reminded that time is limited. Brainstorm with the trainee to come up with additional methods of dealing with students.