The captain should be free to greet all boys individually, especially visitors. He should not lead the informal games, but rather make a final check of all details related to the meeting. The time prior to the meeting is also an opportunity to review a boy's achievement progress. The senior leaders should be available to check what individual boys have accomplished during the week and record it in a Battalion record book. Avoid the temptation to let boys shoot baskets while the men stand around and talk.
Organized games create closer friendships and help everyone feel at home.
Give different teen leaders the opportunity to plan and lead the Pre-Meeting Activities. Use every part of the meeting to develop leadership'. The Battalion meeting begins with a simple line-up formation. This provides an easy, efficient way to get the group organized and prepared for the next activity. Once a pattern has been established, keep using it.