Working
With Boys
Every adult who has a boy in the home has learned from experience
something about dealing with boys. The Cub Scout Leader Book
contains many good ideas on preventing and handling behavior
problems. Here are some additional tips den leaders have found
helpful in dealing with the boys in their dens.
Set the rules. Establish a den code of conduct with consequences
for breaking the rules. A few simple rules are less formidable
than a long list. Once you set the rules, stick to them.
Be fair. Don't permit one boy to get away with something you
would correct another boy for doing. Boys can sense when you have
a favorite. Avoid "picking out" or "picking on"
any boy.
Be consistent. Boys need to know what to expect. Be consistent
from week to week in the way you deal with behavior problems.
Treat each boy as an individual. Get to know each boy and find
out why he behaves the way he does. Getting to know the family
helps you understand the boy.
Mean what you say and say what you mean. Don't warn or threaten
unless you intend to carry it out. Give compliments only when
they are deserved, but remember that we can say something good
about almost everything. Don't say one thing and do another.
Set a good example. Wear the uniform and the boys will wear
theirs. Be positive and they will be positive. Be polite and they
will be polite. Be unfair and they may be unfair.
Reward good behavior. When we reward good behavior it is often
repeated. The good conduct candle is a good example.
Correct only the guilty. If the den misbehaves, correct the den.
If one boy misbehaves, correct the boy. It's usually best to take
a boy aside to correct him rather than embarrass him in front of
the den. Praise in public, correct in private.
You get what you ask for. Boys have a remarkable way of living up
to their own expectations of themselves. Well-deserved praise and
encouragement can help improve a boys' self-esteem and will
usually result in better behavior. let him know you have
confidence in him. If he is continually criticized for bad
behavior that's probably what you will get.
Be open and honest. If you are disappointed in a boy's behavior,
tell him so. He really wants to please you. if you are proud of a
boy's accomplishments, let him know. Everyone needs a pat on the
back occasionally. And if you make a mistake or have been unfair,
admit it and apologize.