Check out environment and become comfortable.

Assess safety in area.

Structure the environment.

Check the equipment.

Get the groups attention - voice, whistle, other signals.  This depends on the age level and frequency of meeting.

Activity formation - generally you want to put them in formation before giving directions.

Giving clear directions – use age appropriate terminology; explain activity clearly and repeat several times sometimes changing the words; if group is not quiet they cannot hear directions; decide on “whole” vs. “part” method of instruction.

Demonstrate – words mean different things to different people, ex. “jump around in a circle”; have a practice run first for demonstration.

Check for understanding – ask if there are any questions; have someone repeat back what you said; be patient and demonstrate again even if activity has started if necessary.

Prepare participants for activity to end – and effective leader will assess when it is a good time to end activity; give a “wind down cue” ex. “two minutes left” or “one more turn."

When to stop activity – stop when enjoyment is still high “KILL IT BEFORE IT DIES”; be careful not to stop too soon leaving participants unfulfilled.

Be honest – if an activity is obviously not working, admit it, stop it or change it. “This isn’t much fun, lets try another”, etc.

Substitute the activity – have plenty of extra activities lined up; be willing to change the one you have.