Den Chief - What Makes a Great Den Chief
| Category: | Leadership |
|---|---|
| Notes: | For Scouts who are serving or about to serve as den chiefs, at a troop meeting or alongside Den Chief Training. Includes a reminder about youth protection rules. Make sure den chiefs know the current rules that apply to them. Part of a series - see also den-chief-why-serve-a-den and den-chief-meet-your-den-chief. |
Some of you are den chiefs. Some of you will be soon. So let's talk about the difference between an okay den chief and a great one.
An okay den chief shows up, stands in the back of the room, and helps when the den leader asks. A great den chief is a Cub's favorite part of the week. Here's how they do it.
Show up, on time, every time you can. Cubs notice when you're there, and they really notice when you're not. If you can't make it, tell the den leader ahead of time.
Come with energy. Cub Scouts have a lot of it. If you're slumped in a chair looking at your phone, they'll learn that's what older Scouts do. If you're the first one leading a game, they'll follow you anywhere.
Have something ready. Keep a couple of games and a quick skill in your back pocket for when there's extra time or the energy needs a reset. Work with the den leader ahead of time so you know the plan.
Be the example. They're watching how you wear your uniform, how you talk, how you treat people, and whether you live the Scout Law. You're their picture of what a Scout looks like.
And follow the youth protection rules, always. Know the rules that apply to you, and never put yourself in a situation where you're alone with a Cub Scout. The rules protect them, and they protect you.
Do those things, and you'll be the reason a few Cub Scouts can't wait to join a troop.