Crafting a Scoutmaster Moment: A Storytelling Approach

February 27, 2025

A Quick Update for Friends and Family

This post isn’t usual—today, I’m talking about Scouting. If that’s not your thing, here’s a quick update:

I’m sore, but the pain isn’t unbearable—just constant. I have an appointment with the Nurse Practitioner on Friday and chemo next Thursday. That’s about it.

Maria and I continue to be amazed by everyone’s kindness and support. Your messages mean the world to us. Thank you.

Now, for those staying with me—let’s talk about Scouting!

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Missing the University of Scouting

Last weekend was the National Capital Area Council’s University of Scouting—this event is the largest Scouting training in the Washington, DC area. It’s where fellow Scout leaders and friends come together—to learn and reconnect. The training is always top-notch, but the fellowship makes it unique.

This year, I saw only a handful of the people I wanted to see. My health had to come first, and that meant stepping back. However, I missed being an instructor on stage, sharing knowledge, and leading discussions.

So, I decided to do the next best thing—write about Scouting.

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The Power of a Scoutmaster Moment

One of the most impactful ways to teach values in Scouting is through a Scoutmaster Moment—a short, engaging story that delivers a lesson at its core.

We do more than share information when we tell a story—especially one rooted in real experiences. We create a connection. We invite Scouts into a space where they can reflect and grow.

In this post, I’ll explain how I craft a Scoutmaster Moment using a story inspired by my grandmother, Rita Cooper, who served in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) during WWII. I use my Grandmother quite a bit, because I get emotional when I think about her, which usually means I can craft something interesting with her as my muse and subject.

My Grandmother

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Why Storytelling Works in Scouting

Before we dive in, let’s talk about why storytelling is so powerful.

A Scoutmaster Moment isn’t just about delivering a lesson but about making it stick.

✅ Stories capture attention
✅ They create vivid images
✅ They stir emotions and reflection

A great story isn’t about listing facts—it’s about impact. That’s why I love the phrase:

"Don’t let the facts get in the way of a good Scoutmaster Moment."

This means recognizing that the heart of the story matters more than minor details. Some of history’s greatest stories are legendary not because they are factually perfect but because they carry meaning.

The goal isn’t to recount—it’s to resonate.

So, when crafting your Scoutmaster Moment, focus on how it makes Scouts feel. Adjust timing, setting, or dialogue to let the story breathe.

It’s not about the facts—it’s about the impact.

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Step 1: The Hook – Capturing Attention

A strong Scoutmaster Moment starts with a powerful opening—something that grabs attention and sparks curiosity.

Here are four ways to do that:

1. Ask a Thought-Provoking Question

Questions naturally engage because they make Scouts think.

Example: "Have you ever seen someone being picked on and weren’t sure what to do?"

This immediately makes Scouts reflect on their own experiences.

2. Start with a Bold or Unexpected Statement

A surprising or dramatic opening grabs attention instantly.

Example: "One of the strongest people I’ve ever met never threw a punch or raised their voice—but they completely shut down a bully."

Now they’re hooked—they want to know how that happened.

3. Use a Short, Intentional Pause

Sometimes, less is more. A pause creates anticipation.

Example:
You step forward, take a deep breath, and say:

“…It only takes one person to change everything.”

The silence that follows makes everyone lean in.

4. Tell a Relatable Personal Anecdote

Personal stories are memorable and engaging.

Example: "I remember standing in the lunchroom, watching a kid get pushed around. I wanted to say something, but I was afraid. I still think about that moment today."

This makes the lesson real before you even start teaching.

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Step 2: The Story – Bringing the Lesson to Life

Now that you’ve hooked your audience, it’s time to deliver the story.

For this Scoutmaster Moment, I’ll share Grandma Rita’s experience in WWII.

The Story: Standing Up for Others

During World War II, Grandma Rita served in the Pacific with the Women’s Army Corps, or WAC.

A new recruit arrived one day—young, nervous, and struggling. She wasn’t used to the heat, the living and working conditions, or the job demands.

Some of the older WACs noticed her struggling and began to tease her:

“She’ll never last out here.”
“She’s going to slow us down.”

Grandma Rita saw it happening. She walked up, looked them in the eye, and calmly said:

"We’re all in the same uniform. When one of us struggles, we all struggle. Out here we need to help each other."

The older WACs paused, feeling ashamed. That afternoon, instead of teasing, they helped the new recruit—teaching her how to handle the heat, care for her gear, and stand tall.

That day, she stopped feeling like an outsider and became part of the team.

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Step 3: The Lesson – What Scouts Should Take Away

Now comes the most crucial part—the takeaway.

A Scoutmaster Moment isn’t just about telling a good story. It’s about leaving Scouts with a lesson that sticks, something they’ll carry with them long after the moment has passed.

I use a consistent call-and-response format to reinforce the lesson and keep engagement high. This simple technique locks in their attention and ensures the message lands.

The Call and Response Technique

After telling the story, I pause, make eye contact with the Scouts, and say:

"Soooo…"

And, without missing a beat, they instinctively reply:

"What’s up with that?"

I respond with a slight smile:

"I’m so glad you asked."

And then, I deliver the core lesson:

"In Scouting, we wear the same uniform—literally and metaphorically. We’re a team. If you see a Scout feeling left out or bullied, step in. Just like Grandma Rita did, show them they belong."

The Magic Behind Call and Response

Here’s why this works so well—it extends attention spans and deepens engagement.

Let’s be honest: Scouts, especially younger ones, have short attention spans. Research suggests that kids can focus for just a few minutes at a time before their minds start to drift. The challenge for any Scoutmaster isn’t just delivering the message—it’s keeping them engaged long enough to absorb it.

That’s where call and response becomes a game-changer.

1. It Builds Anticipation – Scouts know the call is coming, so they stay focused, waiting for their cue.

2. It Snaps Them Back In – If their minds start to wander, the moment I say, "Soooo…",

3. It Turns Passive Listening into Active Engagement – Instead of just sitting there, they’re participating in the moment.

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Step 4: Bringing It Home – Action and Reflection

Ask Scouts to reflect:

"Think about the last time you saw someone being excluded. How did you respond? What could you do differently next time?"

Encouraging them to share makes the lesson objective. Don’t let the time be the reason you tell a Scout they can’t share. They are being brave in this moment. Become a facilitator and guide the discussion, maybe redirecting the Scout if necessary, but don’t shut them down.

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Step 5: Closing – Leaving a Lasting Impact

End strong:

"Remember, Scouts, real strength is in how we treat others. If you see someone being left out—don’t stand by. Step up. Be the person who makes them feel like they belong. Goodnight, Scouts—I’ll see you next week."

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Final Thoughts: Make It Count

A Scoutmaster Moment isn’t just a talk—it’s a chance to shape the character of your Scouts.

By telling meaningful stories, you don’t just teach—you inspire.

So, the next time you stand before your Scouts, ask yourself: Will they remember this? Will it change them?

If the answer is yes, you’ve done your job.

Make it count.

Goodnight, Scouts—I’ll see you next week.