|
Top Ten Pieces of Advice from a
Seasoned Leader:
10. There is not just one
way of doing things, and there are no Girl
Scout Police. You don't need to be a great outdoorswoman or a
life-long Girl Scout to be an effective Leader. (But if you know
somebody like that, don't forget to consult with them!)
9. Being a
Girl Scout Leader is not a competitive sport. If you hear
of something neat that another troop is doing, think of all the great
things your troop is doing, too. Maybe you'd like to borrow that idea
sometime for your troop, though!
8. Network.
One part of the Girl Scout Law is to use resources
wisely. Don't re-invent the wheel! Talk to other leaders,
volunteers, and people you know.
7. Plan some
joint activities with other troops. Invite some girls
from older troops to come help you, especially troops that are getting
ready to bridge to the next level.
6. Remember
that all those Girl Scout rules and regulations are there
to help and protect you, not to be punitive or restrictive.
5. Get the
girls to be as self-sufficient as possible. Don't do
something for them that they could do themselves. Ultimately, this
will be better for them and better for you, and is an investment
you'll make in the earlier years that will pay off big!
4. Take the
training courses that are offered. It's hard to commit to
yet another night out, but you'll get some great ideas and meet some
really nifty people. In the long run, it'll be a time saver.
3. Attend
Association Leader meetings. Same reasoning as the last one.
2. Delegate. There
are lots of jobs to be done, large and small, and
to fit every time schedule. Make it clear that you are not
baby-sitting.
1. Have fun!
Being a Girl Scout Leader is one of the best things
you'll ever do for yourself, your daughter, and all the other girls in
the troop. It's not brain surgery or rocket science, but it's just as
worthwhile and important.
Shari Teresi
Go to Scouting Web Home Page |