The patrol method is the only way to run a troop. It is difficult if a troop does not have this ingrained in their collective psyche and SOP already. Older scouts often drop the ball, then younger scouts never learn. Maybe this sheet will help when the scoutmaster talks to the new patrol leaders and discusses expectations. I’ve also attached the standard meeting plan template:

patrol-leader.ppt

trpmplan.pdf

Don’t make the mistake I made during my early days as an adult leader in scouting. Often I felt adults were getting too involved in running the troop and I spoke out. I have come to realize that adults have to be involved in most aspects of running the troop because times have changed so much. Kids are involved in so many things these days that if you leave it up to them (meeting planning, trip planning, training young scouts, etc.), the troop will implode. Scouting for most kids is simply not a priority. Scouts still need to take on responsibilities, you just have to be smart about how you set expectations and support their activities. What your priority should be is to get most of the parents on the troop committee so you can collectively figure out how to deliver a quality program to your scouts. Really put thought into your activities so the scouts get something out of them. Don’t settle for just car camping in the local woods and don’t run with every idea that comes up, weekends are too valuable. Seek out fun activities that will be memorable and helpful towards preparing your son for life’s challenges. I used to say any campout is a good campout and any hike is a good hike – but that’s just not the case anymore.