Great Tip! When asking for ideas, give options rather than starting with open-ended questions. For example, it’s better to say “Should we go biking, bowling or fishing?” instead of, “What should we do on Sunday?”
4. Pyramid Structures & Meetings Implementing Teen Ideas Create a clear pyramid structure that outlines how decisions are made. If teens are familiarized with the requirements that are necessary for turning their ideas into reality, they will become trained to think more practically.
Sample Structure: 1. A teen leader brings up an idea to the team or CTeen director. 2. CTeen director meets with leaders to discuss whether or not the the idea fits the following requirements: is consistent with the mission of CTeen i s consistent with your Halachic policies. (Be clear and straightforward about the policies and teens will respect them.)
is teen friendly
does not conflict with other programs or dates fits the budget is voted for by a majority of leaders 3. The idea is implemented immediately, shelved for a later time, or discarded kindly. The best way to encourage teens to take leadership seriously is to stick to this pyramid structure at all times. This will ensure they never have the false belief that every one of their ideas will be implemented or give them the impression that the chapter lacks the organization to implement any of their ideas.
Effective Meetings Before the meeting: Create a chapter calendar in the beginning of the year. This will provide much needed structure and continuity. (See Event Planning Section.) Send out an agenda that details how each board member will contribute to the meeting. This will allow the teens to prepare for the meeting ahead of time. Make sure the meeting has a purpose. Sometimes a couple of