Ron,

Hi!

I second Tom Ayers' approach. Do not go into outings fully prepared and equipped to bail out the boys from every misadventure of their own ill preparation. Naturally the boys need to be thoroughly briefed in advance on what gear they need to bring and how they need to prepare. And, they do need to be protected from their own misadventures when the consequences are serious. But the minor errors and omissions are opportunities for them to learn. First aid tends to be an exception to my policy of benign neglect. The newer boys are also likely to be indulged on their early mistakes.

This somewhat hard approach is something I have gradually developed. As a new assistant scoutmaster, I was constantly lending gear to the boys. And the boys were characteristically equipped inadequately. I eventually hardened to force the boys to prepare for and handle the minor and foreseeable problems on their own. I try to minimize the gear that I take which is different from what the boys are supposed to be carrying. I also avoid things which are inappropriate for the boys to use on such outings since I want them working on their basics, not attaching excessive importance to equipment.

Our own troop has tended to be more solicitous of the boys' comfort than I have wanted. A lot of basic planning, preparation, equipping, and skills have been given short shrift. I have been the scoutmaster for only a few months, so we'll see how effectively I can implement my ideas.

Good luck

John