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A Volunteer Learning Resource

Getting Started Offline Packet

A Learning Opportunity forGirl Scout Troop Leaders

Getting Started - Offline Option.docAugust Version – Copyright 2014 – Girl Scouts of Western Washington

Inquiries about this document should be addressed to Volunteer Learning at [email protected]

GIRL SCOUTS OF WESTERN WASHINGTON

601 Valley StreetSeattle, WA 98109


mailto:[email protected]

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.Instructions Page 12.What Will You Learn? Page 23.The Values of Girl Scouts 4.Who Can Join Girl Scouts? Page 45.Managing Troop Meetings Page 56.Parts of a Troop Meeting Page 6 – 117.Sample First Meetings Page 128.Troop Management Tool Kit Page 13-169.Group Agreements Page 17-1810. Working With Your Co-Leader Page 1911. Families Page 1912. The Give-Away-Game Page 20-2113. New Leader Check List Page 2214. Program in Girl Scouts Page 23-2515. Your Perspective on Leadership Page 26-2716. The Three Processes Page 28-2917. Girl Scout Resources Page 30 - 3618. Volunteer Learning Registration Procedures Page 3719. Appendix Page 39-76

a. Understanding Your Girls b. Girl Scout Ceremonies and Holidaysc. Sample First Troop Meetingd. Working with Your Co-Leader


e. Preparing for a Parent Meetingf. Regional Office Contact Informationg. Girl Scout Jargonh. Getting Your Troop Registeredi. Bankingj. Meeting Site Considerationsk. Site Safety Checklistl. Emergency Action Plansm.Incident Reportingn. The Girl Scout Cookie Program


INSTRUCTIONSYour Name:

Date Started:

Date Completed:

Independent Home Study Packet: You must complete this packet before you can start with your troop. You should

keep this copy of your packet in a safe place so you can reference it over time. A coach will be assigned to you for support while you are working through this

packet and for any questions you may have within your first three months as a troop leader. This will give you an opportunity to bounce around ideas with someone else, get any questions you may have about the content answered, and have someone available to you as you begin your volunteer journey. The name and phone number of my coach is:

As you work through the pages of the packet, if you have questions, write them down on a post-it note and attach them to the page where the question came up for you. These questions are exactly what your coach is here to help you with.

Reference is often made to Journeys and the Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting throughout this packet. Definitions of these are found on page 61 of the appendix in this packet.

To receive credit for completion of this package, take the following steps:o Print out the Volunteer Learning Record card sent to you with this packet. This

card will be proof of your completion of Getting Started and can be used to track other learning opportunities you choose.

o Fill in the Completion Pages and email or mail them to the address below.o Keep a print copy of this Independent Packet (or save on your computer) for

future reference.E-mail the Completion Pages to: [email protected], or mail - Attn: Carrol Harris - Girl Scouts of Western Washington601 Valley Street - Seattle, WA 98109

Getting Started – Offline Option.doc August Version – Copyright 2014 – Girl Scouts of Western Washington 1 | P a g e


WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?The focus of Getting Started is to provide you with enough information to get your troop started. The content includes:

1) Age Level Characteristics

2) The Parts of a Troop Meeting

3) Basic Troop Management Tools

4) An Overview of Girl Scout Program

5) Getting Help and Support from Parents

6) Your Resources

o Peopleo Printo Online

7) Your Next Steps

Please be aware that questions will probably come up for you that may not be answered in the packet. It is important that you keep track of your questions.There are three ways those questions will get answered:

1) Through the coach that will be assigned to you.

2) Through the different resources you will learn about in this packet.

3) Through future optional learning opportunities available to you.


THE VALUES OF GIRL SCOUTSThe fundamental values of Girl Scouts are represented in the Girl Scout Mission, Promise and Law. They are shared by every member of Girl Scouting. The Girl Scout Promise is the way Girl Scouts agree to act every day toward one another and other people, and the Girl Scout Law outlines a way to act towards one another and the world.

THE GIRL SCOUT MISSIONThe mission of Girl Scouts is to build girls of courage, confidence and character who

make the world a better place.

THE GIRL SCOUT PROMISEOn my honor, I will try:

To serve God and my country, To help people at all times,

And to live by the Girl Scout Law.

THE GIRL SCOUT LAWI will do my best to be honest and fair, friendly and helpful, considerate and caring, courageous and strong, and responsible for what I say and do, and to respect myself and others, respect authority, use resources wisely, make the world a better place, and

be a sister to every Girl Scout.

Individuals may substitute a word or phrase, other than “God,” if it better expresses their beliefs.

When reading the Mission, Promise and Law, what, if anything, might you have difficulty with? If so, why? How might you resolve this problem?

What questions do you have?


WHO CAN JOIN GIRL SCOUTS? Girl Scouts is for every girl, everywhere! Diversity of all kinds is encouraged

so all girls can enjoy a rich experience.

Girl Scouts is for all girls in grades K-12

o Girl Scout Daisies = K-1o Girl Scout Brownies = 2-3o Girl Scout Juniors = 4-5o Girl Scout Cadettes = 6-8o Girl Scout Seniors = 9-10o Girl Scout Ambassadors = 11-12

Directions: For the purposes of this independent home study packet, please pick a grade level to make your focus as you move forward in the packet. If you know already what your troop grade level will be, choose that level. If you are not sure, choose the grade level you most want to work with as you start as a troop leader.

Adult women and men are valued volunteers. Diversity of all kinds is encouraged with our volunteers as well as the girls.

It is not expected that a volunteer troop leader have had any kind of Girl Scout experience, or that they have a daughter. It is desired that each person who chooses to be a Girl Scout Leader expects to learn and grow along with the girls.

Based on what you know about Girl Scouts at this point, what do you most want to gain by working with a group of girls?

What do you hope to accomplish as you support the girls you work with? How about yourself?

What questions do you have that relate to this topic?

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MANAGING TROOP MEETINGSUNDERSTANDING GIRL CHARACTERISTICS

This is a good activity to do with another person. On the prior page you picked a Grade Level to make your focus as you do the different activities in this packet. On pages 39-42 in the appendix of this packet you will find descriptions of the major characteristics of girls in each of the different grade levels. Go to those pages and find the description that corresponds with the Grade Level you chose.

Take a moment to read the appropriate set of characteristics. Then in the boxes below, write what you might say if you were asked to describe the major characteristics of the girls in the grade level you have chosen for each question.

What characteristics do you think will impact how you work with the girls and how?


PARTS OF A TROOP MEETINGA traditional Girl Scout meeting includes the segments described on this and the next couple of pages. Think about the sorts of things that might happen during each of the segments of a meeting that would be appropriate for the girls at the grade level you have chosen. This is a good activity to discuss with someone else, whether or not they have had experience working with girls at the grade level you have chosen.

Arrival Activity: An arrival activity is designed to keep the girls entertained as they arrive and are waiting for others. The activity should be easy for girls to start or stop, and not require the whole group, as the girls may arrive at different times. It should also not be required for any upcoming activity, as it’s possible that not all girls will have a chance to complete it. Having a pre-planned arrival activity stops the girls from designing their own, which can involve yelling, running in small spaces, making messes of activity supplies, and possibly ending in tears (likely yours)..

Circle the Arrival Activity you think would work best for your first troop meeting:

Using paper and markers, create a trefoil shaped name tag; have the girls include 2-3 facts about themselves, and/or customize it with decorations.

Color in a picture related to a recent Journey activity the troop was working on the previous week.

Using large poster board, have everyone add their name and write welcome in as many languages as you can for an upcoming court of awards.

Using a set of discussion cards, have girls talk to someone they don’t usually talk with about their planned upcoming Take Action project.

Have the girls use technology to research locations that they would like to visit over an upcoming camping weekend.

Opening: The opening is your formal start of the meeting and helps get the girls settled in and focused. Openings often include the Promise and Law, a flag ceremony, a song or game, or another ceremony designed by the girls. Ceremonies, even when brief or humorous, make Girl Scout time special; there will be more about ceremonies later in this module. If you don’t know any Girl Scout songs, a songbook can be purchased from your regional store or check out the Song Leading Workshops developed by Girl Scouts USA. To find them, go to www.girlscouts.org and search for “Song Leading Workshops”.

Circle the Opening you think would work best for your first troop meeting:

Have the girls begin in a circle. Each girl gives their name and an object that begins with the same letter (Ana, Apple). The next girl repeats the previous names/objects, then gives hers, until everyone has gone.


http://www.girlscouts.org/

Have one of the girls lead the troop in the Girl Scout Promise and Girl Scout Law. Pick a different girl to lead for each meeting.

Have one girl at each meeting pick a Girl Scout song to teach to the other girls, then have all the girls sing it together.

Have the girls set-up and perform a Flag Ceremony. Once they are comfortable, they can offer to do these for Service Unit Meetings, at camp, or even at school events.

Have the girls design their own opening ceremony. These new traditions can be the most meaningful, and can be passed on to younger troops in the future.

Business: The business portion of the meeting is where girls plan what they want to do in the future or even that day. This is a great time to get the girls involved in the planning and leadership of their troop. From dot voting for Daisies to having Senior and Ambassador girls leading this section of the meeting, there are always ways for girls to be involved in the business of running the troop.

Circle how you might help the girls at your grade level take ownership for this part of the meeting:

Help get the girls involved by dot voting. Write options on a sheet of paper and have girls place a dot sticker or draw a dot next to the option(s) they like best.

Allow the girls to freely brainstorm ideas for future meetings, outings, or Take Action projects. Help guide the girls if ideas are not possible with the available resources (those can go in the ‘Dream Box’).

Create a poster with four sections (example: what they’d like to learn, where they’d like to go, how they’d like to give back, what they’d like to create) and have the girls write their ideas in the boxes.

Have each girl research and present on one badge or activity they would like to complete, then let the girls select the order they will do them in.

Let one of the girls lead the business section for each meeting. They can make decisions about how votes will be held and what is on the agenda for the section.

Activities: The activity section is the meat and potatoes of the meeting. This is where the girls put their plans into action, so each meeting will be something different. It may be based on the Journey they are working to complete, badges they are earning, a take action or community service project, or something else entirely. Outdoor time is important and so are field trips to expand on the girls’ interests. Don’t forget to invite your troop family Special Topic Experts in; these are family members who have a skill to share or work in a field that the girls want to know more about. Songs and games build a sense of tradition and connect the girls with the larger Girl Scout community. The possibilities are really endless!


Again – circle the kinds of activities you think girls at your age level might most like to do:

Have the girls work on the Journey or Badge requirements they chose. Make sure they have adequate time to complete all the steps for these.

Once the girls have selected a Take Action project or decided how they want to give back, allot time in meetings to plan and work on their project.

Give girls plenty of time to be outdoors. Whether it’s playing a game, learning about local wildlife, or planting a tree or garden, a key part of Girl Scouts is exploring the great out of doors.

Make time for girls to interact with people and places they ordinarily wouldn’t. Take field trips to interesting places in your community, or invite troop family members with unique jobs/interests to come to a meeting. These are great ways to expose the girls to new things and connect to their community.

Hands on activities are always a favorite with girls. It can be a traditional Girl Scout craft likes lanyards or stuffing toys for shelter pups as part of a Take Action project, anything that allows the girls to use their hands and minds. The Girl Scouts of the USA Pinterest page has a TON of great ideas.

Snacks:

Understanding Dietary Issues:There are many different types of dietary issues. Some, such as allergies, will be listed on the health forms you collect. Others, for example religious restrictions or being vegetarian, you will need to find out about from the girl and her family. Remember, these differences are just some of the things that make the girls unique. Ask the girls to brainstorm ways of incorporating everybody’s dietary restrictions and preferences, so that they can learn to celebrate their diversity.

Planning for Snacks:You can plan for snacks in a variety of ways. Some troops choose to have the snacks match the theme of the meeting. For example, if a meeting is focused on gardening, the snack for the day may be foods commonly grown in home gardens, or even brought from one of the troop families’ own garden. Other troops appoint an adult or family who is always in charge of planning and providing the snack. A third option could be to rotate the planning and preparation between families. Remember that the snack should be healthy (vegetables, fresh fruit, real juices) and appropriate for the age group. There must be enough for each child to receive a serving.Getting Started – Offline Option.doc August Version – Copyright 2014 - Girl Scouts of Western Washington 8 | P a g e

Choices in how to do SnacksSome troop leaders love cooking, food, and enjoy the community bond that the creation and sharing of food can provide. If this is you, then feed that passion! If you would rather poke yourself in the eye, than have to shop for and prepare healthy, creative snacks- no problem! Delegating this task to the girls and families is totally appropriate and common practice.

Who will plan the snack? (Circle One)

The girls will plan the Snack.

OR

The adult(s) in charge of providing the snack will plan it.

Who will provide the snack? (Circle One)

The same adult(s) will be in charge of providing all snacks for every meeting.

OR

The adult(s) responsible for providing snacks will rotate each meeting.

Clean-up: Girl Scouts always leave things better than they found them. Whether your troop meets at your home or a local venue, it’s always important to make sure that the meeting space is left as clean (if not cleaner!) than you found it. The best way to make the clean-up efficient and fun is to get the girls involved. To make sure everyone helps, many troops create Kaper Charts.

Kaper Charts are a fun method of sharing the load. All kapers are temporary jobs which may be assigned to either an individual or to a group. Because they rotate, the work is parceled out fairly and equitably. Extra-special bonus? Kaper Charts also prevent CHAOS by keeping everyone constructively busy!

Begin by deciding what the reason behind your chart will be (ex. troop meeting)Next, determine what jobs need to be done (ex. Flag ceremony, collecting dues, etc.).Consider how many girls you have and how many tasks need to be completed. You might need to combine smaller kapers together so they equal some of the larger ones. Plot out on a chart how kapers will be done and rotate girls through. .


Circle the Kaper Chart you would like to use for your troop:

The Tree – Write a specific task on one side of a paper leaf, then pin it to a tree drawing with the writing side down. Create enough leaves for each girl, then they pick a leaf and find out what their task is.

Rotating Chart – Create a laminated chart with common tasks on it. Write the girls’ names next to the tasks with whiteboard pens. Rotate the girls names at the beginning of each meeting.

Decorative Clothespins/Pinwheel – Have each girl decorate a clothespin to represent themselves. Before each meeting, put a clothespin next to each task that needs to be completed. Rotate the pins so the girls have a different contribution at each meeting.

Kaper Can – Write tasks on slips of paper and place in a can. Each girl reaches in and pulls out a task.

Daisy Flower Pots – Have the girls decorate small flower pots with their name on it. Write tasks on popsicle sticks designed to look like Daisies, and drop one stick into each pot. Rotate sticks each meeting.

Closing: The closing is the formal end to the meeting. This section can include a reflection activity, an evaluation of the day, a comment by each girl about what she learned or enjoyed, a song, and/or a short ceremony. You can choose to mix up the closing from meeting to meeting, if the girls would like, or start a tradition by always ending with the girls’ favorite combination.

Circle the Closing you think would work best for your first troop meeting:

Sing the “Make New Friends” song. (Lyrics: Make new friends, but keep the old, one is silver and the other gold. A circle is round, it has no end, that’s how long I want to be your friend). Can be sung together or in a round.

Have the girls form a circle and hold hands with their right arm crossed over their left for a Friendship Circle. Pick one girl to squeeze the hand of someone next to her, that person passes it down until it’s gone all around the circle, this is called the Friendship Squeeze.

Have each girl share something she learned or enjoyed in the meeting. Some troops like to use a talking stick or any easily passable item as a reminder of who’s turn it is to speak.

Have each girl share a wish she has for the upcoming week. Alternately, have the girls share something they have coming up before the next meeting.

Let the girls design a closing ceremony. It can incorporate some aspects of the above ideas, or something totally unique.


The segments of a Girl Scout meeting don’t always have to go in this exact order and will change depending on the age of the girls.

How might the order be rearranged or the goings on vary depending on the age level of your girls?


SAMPLE FIRST MEETINGTo help you get started with your troop, you will find a sample “first troop meeting” for each of the grade levels on pages 47-52 in the appendix. This sample will give you an idea of how you can structure your first meeting. Each example follows a typical troop‐meeting format, and each incorporates a particular Journey book.

Take a moment to review the sample meeting for the grade level you selected.

Look for the parts of the meeting in the sample at your grade level. What insights do you have about how Girl Scouting is different from school?

What questions do you have?

You will find 3 more sample meetings link on the Girl Scouts of Western Washington website at https://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/volunteer-learning/Pages/Learning-Resources.aspx If you take the online session available at the GSUSA website, Girl Scouting 101, you will find more information about the Journeys. Go to www.girlscoutswworg and search for Girl Scouting 101. The password is: aboutGS101.Prior to your meetings with girls, be sure to let each girl’s parent or guardian know how to get a copy of her own Journey book. It is valuable for each girl have her own book so she can write and/or color or draw in it. Additionally you should have a copy of the Journey “How to Guide.” We know from experience that the two must be used together!In the How to Guide that accompanies each Journey, you’ll find several flexible, customizable sample journey sessions. You and the girls may decide to do all of these sample sessions during three or four troop meetings (and that’s perfectly okay), or you may decide to extend one or more of the sample sessions over several troop meetings.

Given that all your meetings will be girl‐led as much as possible, your work with Journeys may go in a different direction than these samples; but these are a great place to start.


http://www.girlscoutswworg/

https://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/volunteer-learning/Pages/Learning-Resources.aspx


TROOP MANAGEMENT TOOL KITThe following pages describe several tools you can use to help manage your troop.

It is useful to answer the questions that are part of each tool with another person. This will help you to generate more ideas.

CIRCLESCircles are traditional in Girl Scouts and are used for openings, closings, on-going discussions and many types of ceremonies.

What is the value of participating while standing or sitting in a circle?

Why would rows of desks and tables be inappropriate for a Girl Scout meeting?

Sharing in a circle is often structured by tossing a soft ball from girl to girl, or by passing a “talking stick.” (A symbolic tool that indicates it is “my turn to talk.”)

CHECK-INA “check-in” is an activity that is usually done as part of the opening of a meeting. Each girl has an opportunity to briefly share something about what has happened for them since their last meeting; or how they are feeling today; or a response to any kind of question that seems appropriate at the time. “Passing” is always okay.


What is the value of starting with a check-in?

What might be some appropriate “check-in” questions for the girls at your grade level?

QUIET SIGN

Raising your hand over your head palm forward, is the traditional way of getting attention in Girl Scouts and is used throughout the entire Girl Scout Organization. You would be amazed at how quickly a room full of Girl Scouts will go quiet whether it is a 1000 or 10 when all are familiar with this sign.


What are the advantages of using this as a tool to get the attention of the girls?

Consider how the girls might use this tool to get each other’s attention. What are the benefits?

How might you teach about, and then reinforce, the use of the “quiet sign with your girls?

GIRL SCOUT SIGN AND CEREMONYGirl Scouts raise their hand to shoulder level with three fingers extended when they say the Promise and Law. This is the universal Girl Scout sign. It is important to do some kind of ceremony that includes the Promise and Law at the beginning of a troop meeting, especially with Daisies - Juniors. Even Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors should be given the opportunity to periodically plan some kind of ceremony that reminds them of these two essential elements of Girl Scouting. As a tool, a ceremony bonds people together with a common purpose. It tends to build a sense of community.

What is the value of ceremony?

Ceremony is traditionally a part of Girl Scouting (i.e. Openings, Closings, Flag Ceremonies, Bridging Ceremonies, and more). There are many other types of ceremonies that can happen during the year. You will find more information and ideas about ceremonies in the appendix of the packet on page 43.

THE MEETING PLAN OR AGENDA When we let you know what would be covered in the this packet on Page 2, we were presenting a type of plan or agenda. Why is it important to go over the agenda or meeting plan with the girls? How could you work with a few of the girls so they could present the plan?


PARKING LOTThis tool is used during adult meetings and workshops to provide people with an opportunity to ask questions and/or make comments and/or share ideas that may not relate directly to the topic at hand. Post-it notes placed in a specific area are usually used for an adult parking lot. This idea is also great for girls. It might be named something else in a troop meeting and something besides post-it notes might be used for very young girls.

How might a “parking lot” be used during a girl’s meeting?

What might be an age appropriate name for your troop “parking lot?”

What could be used for girls who are probably too young to write on a post-it note?


Group agreements are a tool we can use to achieve several different goals in a Girl Scouts group. If all the girls participate in making it then it is girl led and inclusive. If the girls can be coached to enforce it positively then it is a tool for practicing relationship and communication skills. Group agreements are part of how we establish the Girl Scout meeting as a safe emotional space. You can start with basics like “we use our words to ask for what we want” and “we take turns”. Or you can take each line of the Girl Scout Law and ask “What would it look like if we were being…”. You can make it an elaborate craft project or a simple list. Just remember to make it something that can grow and change as the girls do.

This tried-and-true activity encourages girls to be accountable to themselves and each other. The group agreement can serve as a reference point to make certain the group is on target with its goals or to see if the group needs to modify its plan. The group agreement also offers adults to opportunity to practice asking questions to help moderate girl’s behavior, such as “Are we including everyone?” Or “Are we acting like good friends right now?” based on what is in the group agreement. Using this type of questioning allows the girls to pick up on the habit and learn positive ways of discussing behavior.

The group agreement also makes a great starting place when you need to have one of those difficult conversations with a parent about a girl’s behavior. It is much easier for a parent to hear “Can you help me remind your daughter about following our group agreement during meetings?” than to hear “Your daughter is not following the rules and is being disruptive. It is also much easier to have these conversations when all girls and their parents were involved in the creation of the group agreement

Group agreements should be created at the first meeting of a new group of girls and adults. But remember, these are intended to be living documents that grow with the group, so they should be updated any time a new member is added or when it seems like the agreement is no longer working for the group. If a particular part of the agreement is being disregarded frequently, rather than taking this as a sign of bad behavior, it should act as a catalyst to revisit why it was part of the agreement to begin with. If a section is no longer helpful or applicable, it can be updated or changed to reflect the new need of the group.


Group Agreements

Why

When

Anyone who will be a part of the group should be a part of the group agreement creation process. Since all members of the group will be expected to follow the guidelines of the agreement, they should all have a voice in the creation of it. Inviting parents and guardians to participate in the process helps secure their buy-in, let’s them see a girl-led activity in person, and will allow the leader to call on them to help remind the girls what they agreed to in the future.

One way to begin a group agreement is to ask questions like “What does a good friend do?” or “What is a good friend like?” and record the girls’ answers. Another way is to take each part of the Girl Scout Law and ask “How can we show that we are friendly and helpful? Or considerate and caring?” Have someone record a list of good friend qualities on a chart. If a girl gives a negatively phrased suggestion (A good friend ISN’T mean) help her to rephrase it in a positive way (A good friend IS nice). This is another good chance to model positive ways to discuss behavior for the girls.Your group agreement can be simple or elaborate depending on your troop’s needs, but it should be developed by the girls and flexible enough to grow and change with them.


Who

How

To keep the agreement a living document, have girls give examples of how others were good friends to each other in meetings. Put stars, smiley faces, or stickers on the chart for each example that is given. Remember, the recognition is for the group – not individuals.

As the girls come up with ground rules, have them discuss their own values and expectations. Ask them to explain fully to be sure that everyone understands all the ideas.Older girl troops tend to be more “on the go”, so ask the girls how they want to “bring” the agreement on their outings. One suggestion is to write the agreement on index cards and have each girl and adult carry one.

Younger Girl VariationOlder Girl Variation

CREATING A "SAFE SPACE"One of the positive features of Girl Scouts is that not only do we work to ensure physical safety for girls, we want to provide a safe emotional space for girls; these tools we have just covered all help contribute to an emotionally "safe space".

What other ways can you think of to help create an emotionally “Safe Space” for girls?

What questions do you have about each of these important troop management tools?

WORKING WITH OTHER ADULTSYOU AND YOUR CO-LEADER

Experience has shown us that it is very important that co-leaders establish some agreements before starting to work with a troop. Without this pre-work, conflicts can come up when you least expect them.

What things might be important for you to discuss with your co-leader ahead of time?

As you work through the remainder of this packet, we will call out activities that you should do with your co-leader.

Spend some time with your co-leader discussing the topics you listed and more that you will find on page 50 of the appendix of this packet.

FAMILIESParents and guardians can also be great supporters of you and your troop! They share your goal of providing an enriching experience for girls. But, will they offer to help? That partially depends on you and how you approach parents/guardians from the very beginning.

DO ASSUME parent/guardian involvement is important to the success of the troop. DO ASSUME each parent/guardian wants to help his or her daughter to have a good

experience in Girl Scouting. DO NOT ASSUME that any parent/guardian will know what kind of help you need. There is no RIGHT WAY to get parent or guardian help --- but one thing is for sure, it

won’t happen if you don’t ASK!


The first meeting with parents and guardians is crucial. Do not assume families will help if you do not engage them from the very beginning. Some will and some won’t. The first meeting is where they can learn about how Girl Scouting really works and about their own role in the success of the troop. Whatever you plan, you cannot assume that families know or understand anything about Girl Scouting – even if they have been a girl member themselves. Every troop is run differently and it is only fair to let them know up front what your needs and expectations are. There are some helpful hints about how you can delegate on the next two pages.

National studies show that the more you clearly define the ways that families can help, the more likely they are to step in. If done correctly, you will build a solid support base, strengthen the girls’ chances of longevity with your troop, and increase participation from your dads and other family members. For even more ideas about how to get families involved, and the types of roles they can take, check out the 4 Your Girl Family Involvement Kit in the Current Volunteers section of our website.

What questions do you have about working with parents and guardians?

THE GIVEAWAY GAME * ADAPTED from game created by Huron Valley Girl Scout Council, Ypsilanti, Michigan

This is a tool to help you, the troop leader, fully understand that you don’t need to do everything yourself. It is also a tool to help you know where to go for help. Several leaders used this same kind of game with the girls when they had jobs to divide. This is a good activity to do with your co-leader.

InstructionsEach item in column 1 describes a possible task/activity that might need to be done by someone in order for a Girl Scout troop to run well. Working with someone else and, decide under ideal circumstances, who (of the following people) could/should take responsibility for the activity. In some cases you may have more than one person in a box. Take into account the grade level of your girls. Of course all of this doesn't happen all at once.

Leader Co-leader Parent/Guardian Girl Other Girl Scout Volunteer Staff Troop Manager

GIVEAWAY TASK WHO SHOULD DO ITEstablish a Bank Account

Arrange transportation as needed

Arrange for a troop meeting place


Teach songs and games

Be sure permission slips are received before a field trip

Plan holiday observances

Find special people for troop projects

Arrange for camping equipment as needed

Attend Service Unit Leader Meetings

Find interesting service projects

Order/purchase pins, insignias, patches, badges, etc. as needed

Conduct parent/guardian meetings

Help girls grow in understanding of themselves and others

Arrange for field trips

Arrange for extra adults as needed for field trips, etc.

Keep troop records

Prepare for special events

Solve discipline problems

Make long term plans for the troop

Participate in the Cookie Program

Run troop meetings

Buy food and supplies for a cookout or troop camping

Prepare finance report

Gather or buy program supplies

Plan troop meetings

Take attendance

Plan menus for cookout

Provide snacks

Babysit for late parents after meeting is over

Prepare ceremonies

Clean-up following meetings

Count the number of entries you have with LEADER or CO or ASSISTANT LEADER. If it’s more than five, think a bit harder. The more tasks you see the girls can do the better it is! The more tasks you delegate to families the better it is. Their involvement in the troop helps the troop to succeed.


Don’t let the families off the hook. No matter how busy, every one of them can do something, no matter how small!


New Troop Leader ChecklistThe following list will help you track your progress getting a troop up and running. Please note: the order in which these are completed may vary.

Submit your Application and Background Check online Complete the Getting Started online modules or offline packet Get a co-leader (if you don’t have one in mind, your troop

program manager can assist you) Have a ‘welcome chat’ with an advisor, coach, or staff member Purchase membership registration for yourself (15$), and make

sure your co-leader and the girls in your troop register too Return your completed Create a Troop form to your troop

program staff member Get your troop number Choose a site, dates, and times for your troop meetings Host a Troop Family Meeting. Check out the 4 Your Girl Family

Involvement Kit for guidance and resources Host your first troop meeting for the girls Work with the Girl Scouts of Western Washing banking

coordinator and your account signers to open and activate your troop bank account

Attend your Service Unit Leader Meeting and check out other Getting Connected options in your area or online

Remember to utilize all your support staff, volunteer, and online resources


https://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/Pages/Family-Involvement-Kit.aspx


https://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/Pages/Membership-Registration.aspx

https://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/volunteer-learning/Pages/GettingStarted.aspx

https://www.girlscoutsww.org/get-involved/Volunteer/Pages/Apply-Today.aspx

PROGRAM IN GIRL SCOUTSTHE GIRL SCOUT LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE

The Girl Scout Leadership Experience* forms the foundation of Girl Program in Girl Scouting. It includes three keys to leadership which guide the focus of activities that the girls may choose to do throughout their Girl Scout experience. The graphic below indicates the focus of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience.

* The workshop, “Jump Into Journeys” will help you to gain more insight into how to implement the Girl Scout Leadership Experience using the tools that will help you to accomplish these outcomes with the girls.


THE OUTCOMES OF THE GIRL SCOUT LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE

As indicated in the graphic on the prior page, the “what” of Girl Scout program is based on three keys to leadership. (Girls discover, girls connect, and girls take action). So what does that mean? These three keys are defined more clearly by the intermediate and long term outcomes that girls accomplish as they participate in all the activities available to them through Girl Scouting.

Each of the three keys has five outcomes, and they are listed on this and the following page.DISCOVER OUTCOMES

Girls develop a strong sense of self - Girls have confidence in themselves and their abilities, feel they are able to achieve their goals, and form positive gender, social and cultural identities.

Girls develop positive values - Girls form their beliefs and values based on the Girl Scout Promise and Law, learn to consider ethical aspects of situations, and are committed to social justice, community service and action.

Girls gain practical life skills - Girls gain skills that prepare them for a positive, healthy and independent future.-

Girls seek challenges in the world - Girls develop positive attitudes toward learning, seek opportunities for expanding their knowledge and skills, set challenging goals for themselves and take appropriate risks.

Girls develop critical thinking - Girls learn to examine ideas from a variety of viewpoints and use critical thinking to explore implications of gender issues for their lives and their leadership development.

CONNECT OUTCOMESGirls develop healthy relationships - Girls learn to form and maintain meaningful and caring relationships, communicate effectively, protect their rights in relationships, and know when to seek help from others.

Girls promote cooperation and team building - Girls recognize the value of working together and learn to make decisions that benefit the whole group. They can build effective teams, learn to be accountable to their shared goals, and show recognition for others’ accomplishments and contributions.

Girls can resolve conflicts - Girls learn to recognize and analyze different conflict situations and develop skills for constructive conflict resolution and conflict prevention.

Girls advance diversity in a multicultural world - Girls learn to think and act in a way that promotes an inclusive environment, respecting and valuing diverse backgrounds, viewpoints and life experiences.

Girls feel connected to their communities, locally and globally - Girls feel that they are part of a larger community and recognize the importance of building diverse, supportive social networks for their personal and leadership development.Getting Started – Offline Option.doc August Version – Copyright 2014 - Girl Scouts of Western Washington 25 | P a g e

TAKE ACTION OUTCOMESGirls can identify community needs - Girls learn to identify issues in their local and global communities and come up with realistic possibilities for action.

Girls are resourceful problem solvers - Girls can use their knowledge and skills to set up and implement creative and effective ‘action plans,’ locate tools and resources they need, and know when, where and how to enlist help from others.

Girls advocate for themselves and others - Girls develop the ability to speak out on their own behalf and seek opportunities to act and speak on behalf of others.

Girls educate and inspire others to act - Girls learn to effectively explain their ideas to others and motivate them to get involved in community service and action.

Girls feel empowered to make a difference - Girls feel empowered to use their leadership skills to effect change in their lives and their world, and that their contributions are valued in the larger community.

Activity: Pick at least one outcome from each of the three keys that you consider to be very important for girls to accomplish. Describe what you might see girls doing (What behavior would you see?) if the girls were accomplishing that outcome. This is a good discussion to have with another person.

Discover:

Connect:

Take Action:

DISCOVER + CONNECT + TAKE ACTION = LEADERSHIPGetting Started – Offline Option.doc August Version – Copyright 2014 - Girl Scouts of Western Washington 26 | P a g e

YOUR PERSPECTIVE ON LEADERSHIPCopied from pages 24-25 - aMAZE! The Twists and Turns of Getting Along - How To Guide

The Girl Scout Leadership philosophy - Discover, Connect, Take Action - implies that leadership happens from "the inside out." In Girl Scouts, a leader is not simply in a position of authority or someone who likes to take charge. A leader works collaboratively with others to make things better for everyone.

Your beliefs and values, and your attitude, will likely be a strong influence on the girls. So take time to think about your own leadership philosophy. Try the following reflection exercise and revisit it periodically throughout your journey with the girls. You may even find it useful to network with fellow volunteers and share ideas about your progress guiding girls.

DISCOVER + CONNECT + TAKE ACTION = LEADERSHIP

DISCOVERWhat are some of the values you have that fuel your beliefs about human relationships? How do you strive to set aside your own first impressions or stereotypical thinking when you interact?

What do you want to pass on to girls? What might you not want to pass on to girls?

CONNECTThink about the healthiest relationships and friendships you have. What skills do you see you use to create and sustain them?


Have you ever been really pleased with how you resolved a conflict or responded to bullying or peer pressure? How will you use these skills and experiences to guide girls to strengthen their own relationships?

How and when in your life have you experienced the power of truly belonging? What aspects of those experiences can you encourage girls to build into their team?

TAKE ACTIONYou are taking action as a volunteer in service to girls. Why? What motivates you to volunteer your time? What impact do you hope to have on girls?

How can you coach girls to create a “Take Action Project” that truly matters to them and enables them to "pass forward" ideas and actions to make the world a better place?


THE THREE PROCESSES OF GIRL SCOUT PROGRAMAs you learned on the prior pages, The Girl Scout Leadership Experience forms the foundation of girl program in Girl Scouting. It includes three keys to leadership (and their related outcomes) which guide the focus of activities that the girls may choose to do throughout their Girl Scout experience.

However, it’s not just “what” girls do (activities), but “how” they do them (processes). When used together, it allows girls to gain the greatest benefits.

“Girl Led”, “Cooperative Learning”, and “Learning by Doing” ensure the quality and promote the fun and friendship so integral to Girl Scouting. Here’s how Girl Scouts defines these processes:

Girl Led Girls play an active part in figuring out the what, where, when, how, and why of their activities. In partnership with their adult volunteers, girls lead the planning and decision-making as much as possible. This ensures that girls are engaged in their learning, and experience leadership opportunities as they prepare to become active participants in their local and global communities.

How do you think “Girl Led” might work with the girls at your grade level?

How might you go about providing guidance for them?

Learning by Doing This is a hands-on learning process that engages girls in continuous cycles of action and reflection. This results in deeper understanding of concepts and mastery of practical skills. As they participate in meaningful activities and then reflect on them, girls get to explore their own questions, discover answers, gain new skills, and share ideas and observations with others. Throughout the process, it’s important for girls to be able to connect their experiences to their lives and apply what they have learned.

Why do you think “reflection” is an important step in the “Learning by Doing” process?


Cooperative LearningThrough cooperative learning, girls work together toward goals that can only be accomplished with the help of others in an atmosphere of respect and collaboration. Cooperative learning encourages the sharing of skills, knowledge, and learning. Girl Scouts’ all-girl environment provides a space for girls to feel powerful and emotionally and physically safe. The environment helps girls experience a sense of belonging even in the most diverse groups.

What things do you think you might do to help the girls work cooperatively at their grade level?

Click on this introduction link to see an online overview of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience including the journeys. You can skip the beginning video if you like, but it does give a good overview of what “leadership” means in Girl Scouting.

Introduction

If you are using the “paper” version, enter the following link on your internet provider and go to the bottom of the web page; it takes you to: http://www.girlscouts.org/gsle/

There are print resources available to you that can help you to implement these three processes. They can be purchased at the store. You will get an opportunity to review these resources later on in this packet.

There are maps that demonstrate how all the different activities girls might choose to do connect with each other. You will find interactive maps that look like the map below at the following link: http://www.girlscouts.org/program/journeys/maps/ When you are at the site, hover over each area for a full explanation.


http://www.girlscouts.org/program/journeys/maps/

http://www.girlscouts.org/gsle/

http://www.girlscouts.org/gsle/

GIRL SCOUT RESOURCESThere are many resources available to support you and your girls to help you decide what activities to do, and what directions to take.

The National Program Portfolio - There are two resources that are included in this portfolio:

1) Journeys - Journeys are sets at each grade level that include a girl’s book and a How to Guide that you can use with the girls to help them make choices about activities and topics that they would like to pursue. The focus of journeys is on accomplishing the outcomes of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience.

2) Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting – These notebooks for individual girls provide each girl with badge activities, journaling space and other learning opportunities that they can choose to do with others or on their own.

JOURNEYSIT'S YOUR WORLD - CHANGE IT!

This journey invites girls to develop a deep understanding of themselves and their communities. They learn how they can team with others to make a difference.

IT'S YOUR PLANET - LOVE IT!This journey is a call for action that invites girls to explore the natural wonders of the world, become stewards of the environment, and investigate the science that makes things work.

IT'S YOUR STORY - TELL IT!This journey focuses on girls’ self-expression, creativity, and the many art forms they can use—from drawing to acting to filmmaking—to tell their story and take action.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT JOURNEYSTo get started learning more about journeys you can go to your regional office and view some of the sets. Sets that include a “How-To Guide" and one girl book are available at the Girl Scouts of Western Washington stores and can be ordered on-line.

Be sure to register for the workshop: Jump Into Journeys. You can find dates and locations at the Girl Scouts of Western Washington website http://gsusa.ebiz.uapps.net/vp/tabid/676/Default.aspx?pid=9&ProductCode=TR_LEAD


http://gsusa.ebiz.uapps.net/vp/tabid/676/Default.aspx?pid=9&ProductCode=TR_LEAD

THE GIRLS GUIDE TO GIRL SCOUTINGSince Girl Scouts was established by Juliette Low in 1912, there have been many changes to the handbooks for girls. If you were a Girl Scout as a girl, perhaps you remember one of the ones depicted below. Of course they changed to become current with the times.

The newest handbooks are called: The Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting. There is one for each grade level for each girl to have as her own notebook and journal of activities and badges.

Tips for using the Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting with girls can be found at the following link:

HTTP://WWW.GIRLSCOUTS.ORG/PROGRAM/GIRLSGUIDE/DEFAULT.ASP

These new guides are now available in Girl Scouts of Western Washington Stores.

DuPont Store – 252-475-2649 or 800-874-5260 –or – [email protected] Bellevue Store – 425/885-6899 or [email protected]

VOLUNTEER ESSENTIALSThis online document provides you with answers to almost any question you might have. Use it when you have a question.

On the following page you will find the table of contents to Volunteer Essentials. It is not intended that you read it cover to cover, but only use it when you have questions that relate to the topics listed in the table of contents.

To explore the content of Volunteer Essentials further, go to the following link:

HTTPS://WWW.GIRLSCOUTSWW.ORG/CURRENT-VOLUNTEERS/PAGES/VOLUNTEER-ESSENTIALS-AND-SAFETY-ACTIVITY-CHECKPOINTS.ASPX


https://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/Pages/Volunteer-Essentials-and-Safety-Activity-Checkpoints.aspx

https://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/Pages/Volunteer-Essentials-and-Safety-Activity-Checkpoints.aspx



http://www.girlscouts.org/program/girlsguide/default.asp

http://www.girlscouts.org/program/girlsguide/default.asp

TABLE OF CONTENTSQuick-Start GuideWhy Girl Scouts? Girl Scout Mission, Promise and Law Who Can Join Girl Scouts—and How! Girl Scouts’ Organizational Structure Getting Started with Journey Books Planning in a Girl-Led Environment Meeting with Girls for the First Time Using Safety Activity Checkpoints Chapter 1: Sharing Your Unique GiftsUnderstanding Your Role as a Girl Scout Volunteer

Your Responsibilities Your Support Team

Evaluating Your Skills Taking Advantage of Volunteer Learning Opportunities Getting Feedback on a Job Well Done Chapter 2: Program—What Girl Scouts Do!The Girl Scout Leadership Experience (GSLE)

Three Keys to Leadership: The Activities Girls Do Girl Scout Processes: How Girls Go About Doing Those Activities

The Journey Books! Girl Scout Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards Badges, Try-Its, Pins and More! Other Initiatives and Opportunities Girl Scout Traditions: Pass it On!

Girl Scout Calendar Time-Honored Ceremonies Signs, Songs, Handshake and More!

Chapter 3: Engaging Girls at All Grade LevelsArranging a Time and Space for Girl-Led Meetings Understanding Healthy Development in Girls

Girl Scout Daisy Development Girl Scout Brownie Development Girl Scout Junior Development Girl Scout Cadette Development Girl Scout Senior Development Girl Scout Ambassador Development

Creating a Safe Space for Girls Recognizing and Supporting Each Girl Promoting Fairness Building Trust Managing Conflict Inspiring Open Communication Working with Parents and Guardians

Creating an Atmosphere of Acceptance and Inclusion

Chapter 4: Safety-WiseKnowing Your Responsibilities

Responsibilities of the Volunteer Responsibilities of Parents and Guardians Responsibilities of the Girls

Knowing How Many Volunteers You Need Transporting Girls Hosting a Girl-Led Event Approaching Activities

Health Histories (Including Examinations and Immunizations) Girl Scout Activity Insurance

Providing Emergency Care First-Aid/CPR Procedure for Accidents

Chapter 5: Managing Group FinancesEstablishing an Account Money-Earning Basics

Helping Girls Reach Their Financial Goals Understanding Financial and Sales Abilities by Grade Level

Understanding the Girl Scout Cookie Program Recognizing that Product Sales Are Part of the GSLE Determining Who Can Participate Knowing Where Proceeds Go Using Online Resources to Market Cookies and Other Products Safely Selling Girl Scout Cookies and Other Products

Additional Group Money-Earning Collaborating with Sponsors and Other Organizations Appendix A: For Troop VolunteersForming a Troop Committee Holding Troop Meetings

Reviewing the Six Elements of a Troop Meeting Letting Girls Lead

Looking at a Sample Troop Year Reengaging Girls Appendix B: For Travel VolunteersTraveling with Girls

Seeking Council Permission Involving Trip Advisors Letting Girls Lead Staying Safe During the Trip Reengaging Girls

Appendix C: Understanding Girl DevelopmentWorking with Girls in Grades K-5

Girl Scout Daisies- Kindergarten and 1st Grade Girl Scout Brownies- 2nd and 3rd Grade Girl Scout Juniors- 4th and 5th Grade

Working with Girls in Grades 6-12 Girl Scout Cadettes- 6th, 7th and 8th Grade Girl Scout Seniors- 9th and 10th Grade

Appendix D: FormsMeetings & Events with Girls Trips Insurance Risk Management Money-Earning and In-Kind Donations Product Sales (including Cookies!) Financial Assistance


SAFETY ACTIVITY CHECKPOINTSUse this resource when you and your girls need to learn more about the safety

guidelines for a particular activity. To explore the content of Safety Activity Checkpoints further, go to the following link:

https://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/Documents/SafetyActivityCheckpoints.pdf

Girl Scouts’ safety guidelines have historically been outlined in our risk management handbook, Safety-Wise. In summer 2010, Girl Scouts of the USA updated our safety guidelines, which have been customized for Western Washington. The basic guidelines for working with girls can be found in Volunteer Essentials and the guidelines for specific activities can be found in Safety Activity Checkpoints. Leaders often have the Girls look things up when they want to do a special activity.

The activities you can explore are listed below. When you go to the link above, you can click on each topic and it will give you all the safety considerations.

TABLE OF CONTENTSWater Sports Canoeing Fishing Ice Fishing Kayaking Rowboating Sailing Scuba Diving Snorkeling Surfing Swimming Tubing Waterskiing and Wakeboarding White-Water Rafting Windsurfing Land Sports Archery Bicycling Caving Challenge Courses Climbing and Rappelling Cross-Country Skiing Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding Fencing Geocaching Horseback Riding Ice Skating In-Line Skating and Roller Skating Other Land Sports Segway Skateboarding Sledding, Tobogganing, and Snow Tubing

snowshoeingCamping Activities Backpacking Group Camping Hiking Orienteering Outdoor Cooking Trip/Travel Camping Other Activities Arts and Crafts Computer/Online Use Girl Scout Cookies/Council-Sponsored Product Sale Hayrides Parades and Other Large Group Gatherings STEM (Science, Engineering, Technology, and Math) Theme Parks

You will find both Volunteer Essentials and Safety Activity Checkpoints online at our website at:www.girlscoutsww.orgWhen on the web site to access each document you can click on a particular underlined title to go straight to the pages where the information on that subject is contained.


http://www.girlscoutsww.org/



ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AVAILABLE ONLINEBelow are many different online resources you can go to that can help you with getting started with your girls. Check them out when you get a chance.

At the GSUSA Website:http://www.girlscouts.org/forgirls/girls_5_9/

http://www.girlscouts.org/forgirls/girls_10_12/

http://www.girlscouts.org/forgirls/teens_13_17/

http://www.girlscouts.org/for_adults/volunteering/articles/keeping_your_cool.asp

At the Girl Scouts of Western Washington Website:https://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/volunteer-learning/Pages/Learning-Resources.aspx

Sample First Four Meetings

o Cadettes, Seniors & Ambassadors

o Juniors

o Brownies

o Daisies

Developmental Characteristics

Girl Scout Leadership Experience and Your Troop Program

4 Your Girl Kit

o 4 Your Girl Troop Support Menu

o 4 Your Girl FAQ

o 4 Your Girl Promise Card

o 4 Your Girl Contribution Tracking Sheet


http://girlscoutsww.org/files/ParentMeetingAgenda.pdf

http://girlscoutsww.org/files/KeysParentGuardianParticipation.pdf

http://girlscoutsww.org/files/TopTipsInvolveParents91509.pdf

http://girlscoutsww.org/files/TroopLeadershipTeam.pdf

http://girlscoutsww.org/files/GirlScoutLeadershipExperienceTroopProgram.pdf



http://girlscoutsww.org/files/DevelopmentalCharacteristics.pdf

http://girlscoutsww.org/files/DevelopmentalCharacteristics.pdf





http://www.girlscouts.org/forgirls/teens_13_17/



YOUR SERVICE UNIT Girl Scout troops are organized into geographic groups called “Service Units.” Each service unit is organized by volunteers and provides support through monthly meetings, newsletters, and events for girls. On page 56 of your appendix you will find the contact information for the Girl Scout offices in your region. You can call your closest office to learn more about the Service Unit in your area.Use this page to record information about your service unit as you learn it from the staff at your regional office.

My Troop Program Manager (staff)Name: __________________________ Phone: ________________

E-mail:_______________________________________

My Service Unit is # ______Leader Meetings are: Day ___________ Time ___________Site: _________________________ Street Address: ________________________City: ______________________________ Zip: _____________

MY SERVICE UNIT MANAGERName: _______________________________________

H Phone: _____________________________________

W Phone: ____________________________________

Cell: ________________________________________

E-mail: ______________________________________

MY SERVICE UNIT TEAM MEMBERS SCHOOL ORGANIZER: ___________________________________________________ COOKIE MANAGER: _____________________________________________________ LEARNING COORDINATOR: _______________________________________________

OTHER: _____________________________________________________________OTHER: _____________________________________________________________OTHER: _____________________________________________________________OTHER: _____________________________________________________________

OTHER SUPPORT CONTACT INFORMATIONNeed help setting up your bank account?

www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/forms/Pages/Banking- and-Finance.aspx

Help Line: 206-267-1867 or 1-800-767-6845 and ask for the Banking Coordinator

Need help with financial assistance for girls or for yourself?

www.girlscoutsww.org/get-involved/Join/Pages/Financial- Assistance.aspx

Help Line: 253-798-5002 or 1-800-541-9852 and ask for the Financial Assistance Coordinator

Need help getting your troop registered? https://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/forms/Pages/

Registration.aspx Your Troop Program Manager Help contact: [email protected] Help Line: 253-475-0307 or 1-800-767-6845 and ask for

Membership Registration

Need help registering for a workshop? Help Line: 253-475-0307 or 1-800-541-9852 and ask for the

Volunteer Learning Registrar

Where do you go to find out more about learning opportunities available to you?

www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/volunteer-learning/ Pages/default.aspx

Help Lines: 206-826-2164, 206-267-1833, 206-826-2182 or 1-800-767-6845 and ask for a Learning Manager

Where can you learn more about council sponsored events?

GO! Guide [formerly Event Guide]: www.girlscoutsww.org/Things-To-Do/discover-more/Pages/default.aspx

Where can you learn more about the Cookie

http://www.girlscoutsww.org/Things-To-Do/discover-more/Pages/default.aspx

http://www.girlscoutsww.org/Things-To-Do/discover-more/Pages/default.aspx

http://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/volunteer-learning/Pages/default.aspx

http://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/volunteer-learning/Pages/default.aspx

https://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/forms/Pages/Registration.aspx

https://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/forms/Pages/Registration.aspx

http://www.girlscoutsww.org/get-involved/Join/Pages/Financial-Assistance.aspx

http://www.girlscoutsww.org/get-involved/Join/Pages/Financial-Assistance.aspx

http://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/forms/Pages/Banking-and-Finance.aspx

http://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/forms/Pages/Banking-and-Finance.aspx

Program? www.girlscouts.org/cookies and www.girlscoutsww.org/cookies-

and-more/

http://www.girlscoutsww.org/cookies-and-more/


http://www.girlscouts.org/cookies

VOLUNTEER LEARNING REGISTRATION PROCEDURESYou may register online or by mail for a specific workshop by clicking on specific topics on the left hand side at this location: https://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/volunteer-learning/Pages/default.aspx

Find the workshop or conference you are interested in participating in. Click on the registration link for that workshop.

Except for conferences, and "blended learning" workshops such as this one, the current registration deadline is 14 days prior to the event. The deadlines are designed to:

* Support the registrar’s ability to send confirmations (that include the site location and what to bring) in a timely manner to prospective participants.

* Support the Department’s ability to locate and confirm appropriate low cost or free sites.

* Support Volunteer Learning staff, the print shop and regional offices to insure adequate materials and equipment are available for facilitators.

* Support the volunteer facilitator’s ability to adequately prepare for the workshops they facilitate based on the number that will be attending.

LEARNING IS AN ONGOING AND LIFE LONG PROCESS

https://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/volunteer-learning/Pages/default.aspx

https://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/volunteer-learning/Pages/default.aspx

APPENDIX1. Understanding Your Girls – p. 41- 43

2. Ceremonies and Holidays – p. 44- 47

3. Sample First Troop Meetings – p 48 - 53

4. Working with Your Co-Leader – p. 54

5. Preparing for a Parent Meeting – p. 55

6. Regional Office Contact Information – p. 56

7. Girl Scout Jargon – p. 57 - 60

8. Getting Your Troop Registered – p. 61

9. Banking – p. 62-65

10. Meeting Site Considerations – p. 65-67

11. Site Safety Checklist – p. 66-67

12. Emergency Action Plans – p. 68-70

13. Incident Reporting – p. 73

14. The Girl Scout Cookie Program – p. 71 – 72

15. Completion Page

Understanding Your GirlsYour girls will expect you to understand who they are at their age. Check out the program level tables below to explore how your girls interact with themselves, their world, and their friends. This chart can also help you learn how to design age appropriate meetings.

DaisiesWhere She’s At How I Can Support Her

Her SelfShe is a concrete thinker focused on the here and now. She doesn’t always have the words to express her emotions so

she tends to show what she feels physically.

I’ll plan to give the girls information by showing rather than telling. I’ll also have them do an

activity with drawing or movement, rather than asking them to explain how they’re feeling with

words.

Her World

She learns about the world through play, has lots of energy and is a budding artist, dancer, scientist, and builder. She is still developing her control of small muscle

movements, (fine motor skills) so projects that use these might make her antsy.

I’m going to plan meetings that involve games like scavenger hunts or acting out scenes from a

book. I’ll try to avoid activities that require the girls to sit still for long periods of time or that do not allow girls direct interaction with what they’re

learning.

Her Friends

She can follow simple directions easily and likes to be praised when she does. She knows what is right and wrong, but she doesn’t always understand why or have the patience or words to explain.

Grabbing something away from her friend may seem easier than explaining why it’s

fair for her to have a turn.

I’ll make sure to leave time for step-by-step directions when we’re doing activities, and give

specific encouragement and cues along the way, to help them stay on task. I may need to

coach them on finding words to resolve a conflict. I’ll call a lot of attention to successes so

the girls are clear about expectations.

BrowniesWhere She’s At How I Can Support Her

Her Self

She is still a concrete thinker, so she likes clear directions and structure. She’s

getting comfortable with basic number concepts like time, money, and distance. Don’t offer help unless she needs it, she learns much better by doing something

herself. She still values time to move and play.

I am going to offer clear guidance, while allowing the girls to plan activities together. I’ll let them

lead unless they ask me for help. To keep them engaged, the girls can do things like role play scenes from the Journey Books, rather than

simply reading it to them.

Her World

She has lots energy and loves to play outside. Her coordination is much better now, but you might still need to help her

with things like cutting in a straight line or threading a needle.

I am going to plan meetings that let the girls get outside to explore their surroundings. Our indoor

activities will encourage girls to express themselves and their creativity by making things

with their hands.

She is very social and works better in I’m going to make sure that our activities

Her Friends

groups than by herself. She really likes to help others and to be given appropriate

responsibilities.

encourage the girls to work together. When it’s time to make decisions, I’ll let the girls, as a

group, decide their roles and responsibilities.

JuniorsWhere She’s At How I Can Support Her

Her Self

She wants to make decisions and express her opinions, but she is very

sensitive to the judgment of others. She likes to express herself through activities

like dancing, drawing, and singing.

I’m going to involve the girls in making decisions about what the troop does, at this point I can

turn most of the control over to them and simply help guide the process. I will remember that

negative comments stick and I should ensure troop meetings are a safe place for everyone to make mistakes, learn from them, and support

each other.

Her World

She has fine-tuned motor skills and can sit still for longer periods of time. She likes to be hands on and learns better

when she has choices and can interact with her surroundings. Her body might be starting to change in ways she not totally

comfortable with.

I’ll provide the girls with lots of ways to complete activities. For example, rather than having every girl write a poem about themselves, I will allow

them to pick if they would like to express themselves with a poem, dance, drawing, or

song. I will also be sensitive to how each girl is affected by her body’s development, and help

her understand it is normal to experience these changes.

Her Friends

She is really social and enjoys doing things with a group. She is just learning about equality and fairness, so doesn’t react well to things she views as unfair. She has an all-or-nothing outlook and

doesn’t see a lot of gray area.

I’m going to make sure that the girls play a part in all rule making, that way they get a say about

what is fair. If there are things they view as unfair, I’ll make time to explain the why behind

decisions. Our group agreement will help remind girls how to be good sisters to each other.

CadettesWhere’s She’s At How I Can Support Her

Her Self

She can be very self-conscious and wants to be just like everyone else

(except adults) but feels like no one has ever been through what she is going

through (especially adults).

I’m going to give the girls options so they can share things about themselves in a way they are

comfortable with. This means that rather than asking girls to talk about themselves, I’ll offer

options like drawing or writing a fictional story to express themselves. Throughout these activities I’ll be sure to highlight that differences in the girls

are positive and beautiful.

Her World

Things are changing rapidly for her. Her skin, body-shape, weight, and hormones are all over the map right now. This can

cause rapid shifts in mood.

I’m going to be sensitive to all the changes my girls are going through. I know they need time to

adapt to their changing bodies, and that I can help them by reinforcing that people go through these changes in different ways and at different

times.

Her Friends

She likes spending a LOT of time with her friends and peers. She is beginning

to shape how she interacts with the world based on her peer group more than her

family.

I know the girls will enjoy projects that allow them to team up or work in groups for art

projects, performances, and written activities. Using varied grouping strategies will ensure ALL girls feel included. I’ll trust the girls to make key

decisions and allow them to learn from trying new things and making mistakes.

SeniorsWhere She’s At How I Can Support Her

Her Self

She is able to see multiple points of view and have strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills. She is growing increasingly independent and enjoys

expressing her individuality.

I will create program opportunities that allow the girls to both interact as a group and express their individuality. Something like developing

stories as a group and then letting them individually create and share the ending would

go over great with my girls.

Her World

The rapid changes she was going through a few years ago are slowing

down. She is starting to settle into herself and develop her preferred ways of

interacting with the world. This may mean that she learns best being hands on and active, or might prefer to express herself

through writing or art.

I will give my girls options in how they interact with the program. Rather than requiring that

everyone write a poem, I’ll leave it up to the girls to decide if they would like to write, draw, dance

or do something else entirely.

Her Friends

She enjoys spending most of her time with friends and focuses on growing those relationships. She is trying to

navigate her increasing independence and all the expectations that adults have

of her.

I’ll give the girls lots of opportunities to interact as a group, as well as making sure that our activities help them release stress through

creative expression and movement.

AmbassadorsWhere She’s At How I Can Support Her

Her Self She sees the complexity of situations and understands that problems often have no

clear solution. She can appreciate that points of view that are different from her own still have merit. She is proud of her

Now is a great time for me to facilitate the girls’ Take Action and other community service type

projects. Not only do these look great on college applications, but they help develop the girls’ sense of self and exposes them to complex

individuality and is working towards a strong sense of self. situations and problem solving.

Her World

The rapid changes she was going through a few years ago have really

slowed down. She has settled into herself and developed her preferred ways of

interacting with the world. This may mean that she learns best being hands on and

active, or prefers to express through writing or art.

I will give my girls options in how they interact with the program. Rather than requiring that

everyone write a poem, I’ll leave it up to the girls to decide if they would like to write, draw, dance

or do something else entirely.

Her Friends

She has a lot of responsibilities and pressures from adults in her life, but she uses relationships with friends and peers to help navigate this. She wants friends who she can trust and who value her for

who she is.

I’ll give the girls lots of opportunities to interact as a group, but make sure to mix the groups up from time to time, so that the girls spend some time with those they don’t always choose on

their own. I’ll also make sure that our activities help them release stress through creative

expression and movement.

GIRL SCOUT CEREMONIES AND HOLIDAYS Ceremonies:

Bridging: Bridging is an important transition in a Girl Scout's life and celebrates the completion of one program level and beginning of the next. It's a defining moment when a girl becomes aware of her achievements and is ready for new adventures and responsibilities. Celebrating this change should be fun, personalized, and memorable for everyone involved. And most of all, it should be designed by the girls in true partnership with adults.Bridging ceremonies usually take place at the beginning or end of the Girl Scout year and can have three parts:

Opening: guests are welcomed and the tone is set

Main Section: the ceremony is explained and the girls celebrate moving from one level to the next, often by physically crossing a bridge

Closing: girls can participate in friendship circles and thank their guests

Each of the ceremony's parts offers plenty of room for the girls' creativity and individuality. And whether the ceremony includes an actual bridge or a symbolic one, or if it includes props like candles, flowers, or flags, it should always focus on paying tribute to the girls as they move forward.

Some troops participate in bridging ceremonies alongside many other troops in their area, while others plan their own private ceremony and celebration. These ceremonies can be held at local gardens or landmarks, or in the privacy of a troop parent’s backyard. If you choose a venue without a bridge, the Regional Offices often have small, portable wooden bridges available for reservation on a first come, first serve basis.

Court of Awards: Why just hand the person an award, when you can make it a memorable occasion where the recipient can feel proud and share their accomplishments with others? Court of Awards essentials:

Each person has their time to be acknowledged by their name being called out and visibly identified.

Whatever method is agreed to for the delivery of awards is used the same way for everyone. If all awards earned are specifically called out for each girl, do the same for every girl.

An alternative to calling out every badge is to give a summary statement or a special accomplishment for that girl.

Have each girl tell something special they remember. Make sure they know this ahead of time and can practice or write down their thoughts.

Special awards like a Bronze Award or Summit Award (where a girl completes all three Journey’s for her grade level) should be given a separate part of the ceremony.

Make sure the participants and their families are aware of the level of formality planned for the event.

Make sure the girls are involved in the planning of this event as appropriate.

Closing: A closing ceremony signals the end of your meeting time. Closing Ceremonies may include a check-out from each girl, a song, or another reflection activity they’ve decided on. You can choose to mix up the closing from meeting to meeting, if the girls would like, or start a tradition by always ending with the girls’ favorite combination.

Flag: A flag ceremony honors the American flag as the symbol of our country. Flag ceremonies are a great way to open or close meetings and events. If your troop would like to host a flag ceremony at a school or community event, reach out to principals and organizers so they know your girls are interested! For more details on flag ceremonies or a printable version of this information, check out GSUSA’s Website. Some things to consider while planning are:

1. Who will carry the flag? (This is called a Color Bearer)

2. Who will be the color guards? (This is the team who guards the flag and can be any even number)

3. Who will give the directions for the ceremony? (This is called the Girl Scout in Charge or Caller)

4. After the Pledge of Allegiance, will the Girl Scout Promise and the Law be said?

5. When will the group practice?

6. Where will the flags be placed at the end of the ceremony?

Sample Ceremony Script:"Girl Scouts, attention." Used to announce that the flag ceremony is to begin."Color guard, advance." This signals the color guard to advance with the flags, or advance to pick up the flags."Color guard, post the colors." This directs the color guard to place the flag in flag standards, or to attach the grommets to a flag pole rope."Color guard, honor your flag." The color guard salutes the American flag."Please join us in saying the Pledge of Allegiance." (Followed by the Girl Scout Promise and Law, if so desired.)"Color guard, retire the colors." This asks the color guard to remove the flag from standards, or to lower the flag, detach from the rope, and fold prior to being dismissed."Color guard, dismissed." The color guard leaves in formation, with or without the flag."Girl Scouts, dismissed." Girls may leave in formation or be at ease where they have been standing.

http://www.girlscouts.org/program/basics/traditions/ceremonies/flag.asp

Bronze Award Ceremonies: A Girl Scout Bronze Award Ceremony honors Girl Scout Juniors who have earned the Girl Scout Bronze Award and is usually held at the troop/group level or combined with council recognition. You can use the planning guidelines from the Court of Awards to design your troops very own Bronze Award Ceremony.

Girl Scouts’ Own: Girl Scouts' Own is a girl-planned ceremony that allows girls to explore their feelings around a topic, such as friendship or the Girl Scout Promise and Law, using spoken word, favorite songs, poetry, or other expressions. Some girls like to include quotes from Girl Scout Founder Juliette Gordon Low to add a sense of tradition, such as the poem below.

Every spring the sap rises in the trees from root to branch and makes a tree that looks dead blossom with green leaves and life. So it is that the Scouting Spirit rises within you and inspires you to put forth your best.

Investiture: Investiture ceremonies welcome new members, girls or adults, into the Girl Scout family for the first time. Girls receive their Girl Scout, Girl Scout Brownie, or Girl Scout Daisy pin at this time.

A great way to get the girls involved with this ceremony is to allow them to plan the opening. This could include a Flag Ceremony, candle lighting, or other opening of their choice. Once the opening is completed, all girls make the Girl Scout sign and repeat the Girl Scout Promise.

Call each new girl forward and place her membership pin upside down. Explain that the pin is upside down because she should go home and do a good deed. When completed, her parent or guardian can turn the pin right side up. Let everyone know that you hope to see all the pins turned over by the next meeting. As you pin each girl, have them give the Girl Scout handshake (give the Girl Scout sign with the right hand and shake with the left hand).

Opening: The opening ceremony is a traditional way to start a meeting. Openings often include the Promise and Law, a flag ceremony, a song or game, or a check-in from each girl. Get the girls involved in designing their ideal opening ceremony! Ceremonies, even when brief of humorous, make Girl Scout time special.

Pinning: Pinning ceremonies help celebrate when girls receive grade-level Girl Scout pins. These are often combined with Bridging, Investiture, or Rededication Ceremonies. If you or your girls are interested in planning a stand-alone Pinning Ceremony, you can use the outline for either the Investiture or Rededication Ceremony and add favorite

poems, songs, stories, or other ceremony parts designed by the girls.

Rededication: Rededication ceremonies are an opportunity for girls and adults to renew their commitment to the Girl Scout Promise and Law. For troops that are ready to begin planning special events, a rededication ceremony is a great place to start. Have the girls design the invitations, secure the venue, and plan the ceremony.

At the ceremony, begin with an opening of their choice. Decide on a girl or set of girls to lead the others through the ceremony. After having everyone recite the Girl Scout Promise, call each returning girl forward and place her membership star and disc on. As you pin each girl, have them give the Girl Scout handshake.

Holidays:

World Thinking Day: Each year on February 22, World Thinking Day, girls participate in activities and projects with global themes to honor their sister Girl Guides and Girl Scouts in other countries. World Thinking Day not only gives girls a chance to celebrate international friendships, but is also a reminder that Girl Scouts of the USA is part of a global community—one of nearly 150 countries with Girl Guides and Girl Scouts. Visit www.wagggsworld.org to learn more.

Girl Scouts Birthday: commemorates the day in 1912 when Juliette Gordon Low officially registered the organization's first 18 girl members in Savannah, Georgia.

Volunteer Appreciation Week: honors all the volunteers who work as leaders and mentors in partnership with girls. Girls, their families, and communities should find a special way to thank their adult Girl Scout volunteers. Also, remember to keep an eye out in April for volunteer celebrations held by regional council staff.

Founders Day: Juliette Gordon Low's Birthday, or Founder's Day, marks the 1860 birth of Girl Scouts of the USA founder Juliette Low in Savannah, Georgia. Juliette started the organization in 1912.

SAMPLE MEETINGSGIRL SCOUT DAISIES: SAMPLE MEETING 1

Goal: To get to know one another, learn basic Girl Scout values, and sample the Daisy story.

Supplies needed: Welcome to the Daisy Flower Garden, girls’ journey books and adult journey guide

(with photocopies of pages 8, 10, and 12, in case girls forget their books) Crayons and/or colored pencils An “It” and “Other” can, and wide craft sticks The Girl Scout Promise on large easel paper Snack or treat

Pre‐meeting: Lay out the crayons/pencils crayons and keep the photocopies nearby, just in case.

Arrival activity: Girls color and decorate their Color Me! pages (page 8, 10, and 12 of the girls’ book), which have pictures of the garden girls—Chandra, Cora, and Campbell. Your group may require the help of an adult or older girl.

Snack/treat: Have girls serve a healthy snack here; if preferred, you and the girls may opt to have a treat toward the end of your meeting.

Opening: Use 1‐2‐3 Hello: You and the girls join hands in a circle. The group moves on the count of 1 toward the inside of the circle while holding hands. The leader says, “Hello, Daisy Girl Scouts.” The group quickly goes back out, and then repeats enthusiastically for 2 and 3. (Note: You can also do 1‐2‐3 Goodbye.) Have the girls sit in a circle. Let them know this is their Daisy Circle.

Another opening option is to teach and sing (or say) “Sandy’s Song” for Girl Scout Daisies (page 5 of the girls’ book and page 75 of the adult guide).

Business: Take care of introductions and Girl Scout basics:

You and other volunteers introduce yourselves. Ask the girls to say their name and one thing about themselves they want all the

girls to know. Give them an example: “Hi, my name is Amy, and I like to sing.” Introduce the Girl Scout Promise (page 37 in the adult guide). Introduce the girls to Juliette Low, the first Girl Scout Daisy (page 6 in the girls’

book).

Activity 1: Welcome to the Daisy Flower Garden. Ask girls to share their colored pictures of the arrival activity of the garden girls: Cora, Campbell, and Chandra. Ask them, “Look at the pictures; what can we tell about them?” For example, “Look at Cora. She likes music.” Ask them who likes music in the Girl Scout troop. Let them know these garden friends will be with us throughout our journey through the Daisy flower garden. Read Chapter 1 in the girls’ book (pages 17–19).

Activity 2: “It” and “Other” cans. Give each girl a wide craft stick to decorate and help her put her name on it. Also provide two cans (such as coffee cans) that girls can help

decorate. When the cans and sticks are complete, you have an easy way to get girls to help with any chores related to meetings. When a helper is needed in a meeting, a stick is drawn from the “It” can, and the name draw is the helper. After the task is finished, the stick goes in the “Other” can, until all sticks have been drawn from the “It” can.

Clean‐up: You may want to draw a name from the “It” can and let this girl be the leader of the clean‐up. At the same time, encourage all the girls to be part of the clean‐up process.

Closing: Get in the Friendship Circle (page 45 in the adult guide)

GIRL SCOUT BROWNIES - SAMPLE FIRST MEETINGGoal: The girls will discover their special qualities and the qualities of their sister Brownies. They will also find the values within the Girl Scout Law.

Supplies needed: Brownie Quest, girls’ journey books and adult journey guide Slim markers (small decorative stickers are optional) Light ball or koosh ball Poster board with a star on it and the names of the girls written on the star Clues for the Girl Scout Law search: 10 strips of paper with 1 part of the Law on

each strip “It” and “Other” cans and wide craft sticks Snack or treat

Pre‐meeting: Set up a table with arrival activity material; display the Quest Master Map.

Arrival Activity: Finding the First Key: Discovering Me (page 49 in the girls’ book). Each girl uses slim markers and decorative stickers to make her own unique stars. Have an adult or an older Girl Scout help the girls, if necessary.

Snack/treat: You and the girls may opt to have treat time here or toward the end of the meeting.

Opening: Sit in a Brownie Ring (which is simply a group of Brownies sitting in a circle). Welcome the girls and introduce yourself and any co‐volunteers. Do the Ball Toss (page 46 of the adult guide).

Business: Take attendance and collect the dues, explaining to the girls what you are doing, since they will do this task in the future. (You and the girls may opt to collect dues at the beginning of your meetings.) After the first meeting, assign taking attendance as one of the kapers for one of the girls.

You will create “It” and “Other” cans: Give each girl a wide craft stick to decorate and help her put her name on. Also provide two cans (such as coffee cans) that girls can help decorate. When the cans and sticks are complete, you have an easy way to get girls to help. When a helper is needed in a meeting, a stick is drawn from the “It” can, and the name draw is the helper. After the task is finished, the stick goes in the “Other” can, until all sticks have been drawn from the “It” can.

Activity 1: Decorate the “It” sticks. Each girl decorates her “It” stick and writes her name on it. Sit in a circle and have girls place their sticks in the container. Ask the girls how they help at home, and talk about how they might help in their troop.

Activity 2: Play Going ELF (pages 47–49 in the adult guide; see page 44 in the adult guide for suggestions on ways to set up the search). Then have girls, with assistance (if necessary), complete Discovering Values (page 50 in the girls’ book). For tips on winding down from the search, see page 50 in the adult guide.

Clean‐up: Draw a stick from the “It” can and ask this girl to lead the clean‐up effort. Encourage all the girls as a team to be part of this effort.

Closing: Give each girl a stapled copy of the take‐home letter and family star (pages 53–55 in the adult guide). Encourage her to share and do the star with her family and bring the star back to the next meeting. Close with teaching them the Friendship Circle (page 27 in the adult guide).

GIRL SCOUT JUNIORS - SAMPLE MEETINGGoal: The girls get to know their troop/group members, review or learn some Girl Scout basics, and discover their own values and individual powers.

Supplies needed: Agent of Change, girls’ journey books and adult journey guide Markers, paper, scissors, small glitzy stickers, yarn for necklace, and a hole punch Long rope and large sheet of paper for mounting the rope and index cards (one per

girl) Girl Scout Law written on easel paper Blank trefoil‐shaped cardstock for nametags Snack or treat

Pre‐meeting: Lay out the materials the girls will need to make their nametags.

Arrival activity: Girls make their trefoil name tags. Ask each girl to put her name on one side and three things about herself on the back, and then decorate it as she wishes. Punch a hole and use the yarn to drape this around her neck.

Snack/treat: You and the girls may decide to have the treat now or toward the end of your meeting.

Opening: Form a standing circle and introduce yourself and any co‐volunteers. Introduce the Quiet Sign, which is used by Girl Scouts all over the world to quiet a group. (The right hand is raised with a flat hand. Be patient. When individuals see the hand raised, they also raise their hands. In just a few moments, the group will become quiet.) Discuss the importance of having an agreed‐upon sign for quiet.

Introduce or review the Girl Scout Sign. Ask them what this sign represents. The three fingers represent the three parts of the Promise. Review the Girl Scout Promise.

Do the Rope Ceremony, a modification of the one described on page 46 of the adult guide. Use a rope long enough to go around a circle of the girls. Have a knot tied in it for each girl. You speak then pass the next knot to the next girl in the circle until every girl has had the chance to introduce herself and say three things about herself. She can refer to her trefoil nametag.

Sit down, staying in a circle. Show the paper with the Girl Scout Law. Talk about the journey they will go on together and the opportunity to discover the qualities of the Girl

Scout Law in themselves along the journey. Give each girl an index card (see step 3 on page 46 of the adult guide).

Business: Assign a girl to take attendance and dues, with your guidance. (You and the girls may decide to collect dues as the girls arrive.)

Activity 1: Do Thinking About Power (page 47 of the adult guide and page 6 of the girls’ book).

Give an overview of Agent of Change and the awards they can earn along the way (page 7 of the girls’ book). Next, do Your Daily Power (page 14 of the girls’ book). Discuss what power means. Ask each unfinished sentence in the Did You… box, one by one, and ask who has an example.

Activity 2: Play a game, because they have been sitting for a while. Let the game choice be theirs, or try People to People (or call it Junior to Junior), a high energy game that requires no equipment. When a quick change of pace is needed, have the girls pair up, with one designated as the “caller.” When the caller shouts out “Junior to Junior,” the girls run to find a new partner to stand next to. The odd person out becomes the new caller. The caller may call different body parts, such as hand to hand, foot to foot, head to head, or back to back. Then the girls run for a new partner and touch head to head, foot to foot, or whatever body part the caller indicated.

Activity 3: Complete the Power Log (pages 48–49 of the adult guide). Ask the girls whether they would like to make individual power logs or create a big team power log. Discuss with the girls how they would like to do this as this is part of earning the first badge on their journey.

Clean‐up: Note that Girl Scouts always leave places cleaner than they found them. Encourage all the girls to help.

Closing: Ask the girls to complete What Makes Me-Me? (page 13 girl’s book) at home, and to bring this with them for the next meeting. Conclude with the Friendship Circle (page 28 of the adult guide).

CADETTE, SENIOR OR AMBASSADOR - OVERVIEWThe following is a typical Girl Scout meeting structure, which the girls may or may not choose to use.

An Opening or Starting Point: The girls may or may not choose to open their Meetings with an official ceremony, such as a flag ceremony and the Promise and Law. In any case, there needs to be an indication that the meeting has begun.

Business: Girl Scout Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors may even have more to address than younger Girl Scouts. It is the girls’ opportunity to discuss their current and future plans and create implementation steps.

Activity: This will usually be the main part of the meeting. Considering the Girl Led aspect of Girl Scouting, the girls will drive what those activities will be. If the girls are doing one of the Girl Scout journeys their activities will probably be one of the suggested activities within the journey or a related one that sparked the girls’ interest.

In addition to the journey, the girls may agree upon another area that may require bringing in a speaker or someone to work with the group who has expertise in something.

As the volunteer, you can be extremely helpful to the girls in advising them and helping them secure what they need.

Clean-up: Even Girl Scout Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors need to be reminded from time to time that we leave a place cleaner than we found it.

Closing/Ending: Just as there is a beginning there needs to be an ending. The girls may or may not choose to end some meetings with a Friendship Circle and a squeeze. The important thing is that they leave on a high note, knowing what their next step is going to be.

Note: You and your girls may choose to have a treat or not, based on the time and duration of your meetings. Encourage them to choose healthy treats.

GIRL SCOUT CADETTE, SENIOR AND AMBASSADOR - SAMPLE FIRST MEETING

Goal- Girls get to know each other better and begin to generate ideas for their troop year.

Arrival activity- Invite the girls to make name tags if they don’t all know each other. Try to greet the girls as they arrive and encourage them to talk with each other as the rest of the group arrives. If they are engaged in conversation, let them continue for a while.

Treat- This will vary from group to group depending on the time of day the group meets and possible the duration. Provide a healthy snack for the first meeting and then discuss with the girls how they want to handle this.

Business- Sit in a circle. Take attendance and collect dues, which the girls can handle in subsequent meetings.

Remind them of the quiet sign. If you have any new girls, quickly explain what this is.

Introduce yourself to the girls, if they do not know you, as well as your assistant. Then encourage the girls to introduce themselves and share something they enjoy doing.

If the girls already know each other, do a “check-in” anyway. You can use the metaphor of the weather report for this. Ask them to describe how they are feeling using a weather term. Example: Lots of sun, overcast, cloudy but clearing… Or have them share a little known fact about themselves.

If the group is active, try a Human Bingo game. Each square within the Bingo is something a girl may have done, such as climbed a climbing wall. The girls go around the room and try to find someone to sign each square. Each time they find someone who satisfies that square, she initials it. When she has 5 in a line, she yells, BINGO.

Activity- Introduce the journeys for this grade level and any other Girl Scout resources and activity books that you think might interest the girls. Let them spend time going through them. You may want to have them look at these in small groups and encourage them to think about where they would like to start.

Have each girl or small group report out with suggestions.

In addition to the interest created by the books, brainstorm with them the things they would like to do in their Girl Scout troop. Again, this could be done in pairs, so everyone participates and then the pairs share their list so one troop list might be generated. Discuss next steps.

Clean-up- If there is clean-up to be done, encourage total participation.

Closing- A Friendship Circle & squeeze or however the girls determine they would like to close.

WORKING WITH YOUR CO-LEADERCLARIFYING YOUR ROLE

Thank you for choosing to become a Girl Scout Leader! There will be challenging times and many joyous celebrations as you watch your girls grow into capable young women. During all of these times it is both necessary and rewarding to have an adult leadership team working alongside you. But let’s start with you! Jot down the answers to these questions, and then discuss your answers with your co-leader as a way of getting to know her/him better.What does Girl Scouting mean to me?

Why do I want to be involved with this Girl Scout troop?

What do I hope the troop will accomplish this year?

What do I hope girls will gain by participating in Girl Scouts?

What skills or experience do I hope to share with the girls?

What role do I want to play in leading these girls?

Start of the Year ~ Family Meeting Agenda

In order for adults to be focused, have an activity planned for the girls in another room. You might want to ask your Service Unit Manager to connect you with an older girl troop that is willing to assist with this. If this is a new troop, try to have get-to-know-you games for the girls; and it may be a good time for girls to create a Group Agreement about behavior expectations to form a safe and supportive troop sisterhood.

Be sure to warmly greet and welcome everyone as they come in. Have them create a name tag and pick up the Meet My Girl- handout (see below). This is something to do while everyone is arriving and getting settled.

Ice Breaker Activity: have each person (including you) introduce themselves and share one of the responses to the “Meet My Girl” prompts (encourage people to share different prompts), and one of their own hopes for what the troop will do this year (it’s a good idea to write these hopes down and who said them), though remind everyone that the girls will ultimately choose the year’s priorities.

Expectations for the Meeting: o Give a brief overview of the agenda itemso Explain that you will try to answer questions as you go, or if there is

time, at the end, but may need to move things along to get to all the important topics. Encourage folks to call or email with any further questions.

o If you are using a Family Handbook, pass it out.

Troop Communication:o Troop website, social media group, paper newsletters, email, phone

tree, texting, etc.. (It’s your choice to either have the methods of communication already decided, or to agree as a group what the best methods will be. The latter is obviously more time-consuming, but may result in greater cooperation later.)

o Guidelines for communication response times, and policy re. attendance, tardiness in arrival and pick-up, and absences. (This will come up later as an issue, so be sure you are clear now.)

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o Emergency communication plan- highlight the importance of providing and updating the most current and accurate emergency contact information (they will put that on the Permission for Meetings, Day Trips, and Medical Care form later.

o Group Agreement, Girl Scout Promise and Law: explain that the girls will be creating one together, and it will be shared with families. Clarify that if there are behavior issues, families are expected to help their girls honor the Group Agreement. If using the Parent Handbook, you may go over some of the expectations for Families too.

o Explain that if concerns or complaints come up, they should be discussed in private, not in the presence of the girls, and a suggested solution should be offered, as well, in the spirit of cooperation.

o Calendar- schedule of meetings, known events or field trips

o Basic overview of meeting format. May also want to introduce the awards and badges, Journeys, and community service or Take Action projects

Troop Support: Pass out the 4 Your Girl Family Involvement Kit- Introduce the importance of whole family (parents/guardians, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc.) contributions to the success of the entire troop, and that they can customize the way they engage. This is your chance to set the tone that the troop is a big family (not a babysitting service), and everyone is a part of the larger family of Girl Scouting (the largest organization focused on girls in the world).

o Go over At a Meeting, At Home, On the Go options

o Answer questions and look at the FAQ- be sure to clarify which roles require adults to complete membership registration and/or a volunteer application and background check, and how to do that (instructions and links are in the FAQ)

o Families fill out Promise Cards and turn them in. If someone needs to discuss the options with their family before making the promise, stress


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that they should have it ready by the next meeting.

o Briefly go over the Tracking sheet

o Really try to get the Troop Product Sales Manager and Troop Treasurer roles filled. You may also want to make a pitch for another Co-Leader. These folks will be giving more time, and should be made aware of that, but are the big keys to lightening your load. If using the Family Handbook, there are more detailed position descriptions of these key roles there.

You may want to share a list of troop supplies such as markers, poster paper, calculators, glue sticks, etc.. and ask that families donate as many of the items on the list that they can.

Forms and Troop Funding:o Tell people about the Families area on the website (under the Get

Involved drop down menu). They can access the Q & A, Girl Scout Glossary, Forms, info on Cookies, membership registration and financial assistance instructions, etc.. Please note, EBiz was updated in August 2013 to make the system easier for families; make sure you review the new process (Learn more in our letter to membership).

o Have membership registration Girl Membership Registration Form Adult Membership Registration Form (Spanish versions are on the website), financial assistance instructions (Financial Assistance), and paper forms ( Financial Eligibility Form , Financial Assistance Request Form.) Some people may not feel comfortable expressing a need for FA, so it might be best to leave forms out and let them know where to find more info on the website. Have the Permission for Meetings, Day Trips, and Medical Care , Girl/Adult Health History Form (must complete for the girl and any adult planning on attending meetings or field trips), Policy on Administering Medicine (ask if necessary), Transportation Card (especially for those offering to be Drivers), and Parent Permission and Financial Responsibility Form (if you are planning to do product sales). If time permits, try to have all relevant forms completed and turned in before you move on. Explain that more forms may be required in the future, depending on activities, and it is


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https://www.girlscoutsww.org/get-involved/Join/Financial%20Assistance/FARequestForm.pdf

https://www.girlscoutsww.org/get-involved/Join/Financial%20Assistance/FARequestForm.pdf

https://www.girlscoutsww.org/get-involved/Join/Financial%20Assistance/FAEligibilityForm.pdf

https://www.girlscoutsww.org/get-involved/Join/Pages/Financial-Assistance.aspx

https://www.girlscoutsww.org/get-involved/Join/Membership%20Registration/AdultMembership.pdf

https://www.girlscoutsww.org/get-involved/Join/Membership%20Registration/GirlMembership.pdf

https://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/Documents/eBizLetterToMembers.pdf

https://www.girlscoutsww.org/get-involved/Families/Pages/Information-for-Families.aspx

really important to complete and return them in a timely manner (“no slip, no trip”).

o Explain that the $15 membership registration goes to Girl Scouts of the USA to cover insurance and administrative costs. That money does not go to the troop or the local council.

o Cover reimbursement policies: for example, if the troop funds are used to pay for an activity/outing and a girl does not show, the family will be responsible for reimbursing the amount. Also, families may want to make a purchase for the troop. Explain they should discuss that with the Leader and/or Treasurer first.

o Troops pay for their supplies and activities through dues, and product sales. Financial Assistance covers $40 per girl, for dues, so some troops choose not to exceed this, but that is not a requirement. Activities and events, program materials, uniforms and badges will be additional costs. Financial Assistance is available to cover some these expenses as well. It is best to be clear about these costs, and explain that there may be a delay in processing FA requests, and that the troop will do its best to share resources and give as much advanced notice of outing or event costs as possible. This can be a stressful topic for some families, try to be as sensitive and accommodating as you can.

o Product Sales- Cookie time can put a strain on the entire troop family, or it can be a great opportunity for everyone to come together and bond. Setting clear expectations now, helps when things get stressful later. Encourage families to check out the area for them on the website re. Cookies, and to visit the Little Brownie Bakers site. Here are some basic guidelines. Families can support their girl involved in product sales by:

Giving permission for her to sell Girl Scout cookies by filling out the Parent Permission and Financial Responsibility Form.

Attending the cookie activity training for her troop. Helping her set and meet her personal goal(s) and her troop’s

goals.


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https://www.girlscoutsww.org/cookies-and-more/Information-for-Girls-Volunteers-And-Families/Cookie%20Guide%20for%20Troop%20Volunteers/ParentPermissionandFinancialResponsibilityForm.pdf

http://www.littlebrowniebakers.com/

https://www.girlscoutsww.org/get-involved/Families/Pages/Family-Cookie-Information.aspx

Helping her observe all safety rules and guidelines outlined in materials provided by Girl Scouts of Western Washington.

Helping her understand that you will be working with her in a supportive role; adults, however, should not assume sole responsibility for selling cookies.

Helping to network with colleagues so that she can contact co-workers and family members to purchase cookies.

Providing transportation to cookie events or special sales areas, like those outside a grocery store.

Providing a safe place for the money collected, as well as frequent drop-offs of money to the cookie manager.

Paying for any cookies eaten at home.

o Also, explain that the girls will be involved in planning and budgeting the use of troop funds, as part of their financial literacy skill building. Troop funds are not for individual expenses; and if a girl leaves the troop, there should not be an expectation she can take ‘her share.’

Q&A: If you have time, try to answer any questions that come up.

Closing Activity:At this point, get girls and adults in the room together, stand and form a circle, if possible. (If short on room, girls can stand in front of their family members.) Have all adults and girls share one word that describes how they are feeling about being part of the troop family and the beginning of a new year together.Be sure to genuinely thank everyone for their participation in the troop and the meeting.


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GIRL SCOUT OFFICES DuPont Girl Scout Center [email protected] Davis Place DuPont, WA 98327(mail: PO Box 770, DuPont 98327)(253) 475-0307 (800) 541-9852 Fax (253) 473-0969

Seattle Administrative Office 601 Valley Street

Seattle, WA 98109(206) 633-5600 (800) 767-6845Fax (206) 633- 5099

Girl Scouts of the USA420 Fifth AvenueNew York, New York 10018-2798(800) GSUSA 4 U (800) 478-7248(212) 852-8000

Peninsula Regional [email protected] NE Winters RoadBremerton, WA 98311(360) 698-5156 (800) 767-6828Fax (360) 698-6571

King County Regional [email protected] NE 20th StreetBellevue, WA 98005 (425) 614-1126 (800) 767-6815 Fax (425) 702-9888

North Regional [email protected] State Avenue Marysville, WA 98227 (360) 658-8083 (877) 822-9435

Fax (360) 658-8742


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Bellevue Girl Scout [email protected] NE 20th St Bellevue, WA 98005 (425) 885-6899

DuPont Girl Scout Store [email protected] Davis PlaceDuPont, WA 98327(mail: PO Box 770, DuPont 98327) (253) 475-2649 (800) 541-5260 Fax (253) 912-0874

Most offices have lending libraries and some have equipment depots; investigate to see what Resources are available to you!

Store Hours: Sun-Mon: Closed Tue, Wed, Thu: 11:00 am-6:00 pm Fri-Sat: 11:00 am-3:00 pm Note: The store is closed on Saturdays for holiday weekends


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GIRL SCOUT JARGON – CAN YOU MATCH THE TERM TO THE DEFINITION(Answers Follow)

Traditions____1. Girl Scout Promise____2. Girl Scout Motto____3. Girl Scout Slogan____4. Quiet Sign____5. Friendship Squeeze____6. Thinking Day____7. Kaper Chart____8. Girl Scout Law____9. GSUSA

A. Begun by one person in a circle, each girl passes the squeeze on until it goes all the way around the circle.B. A way to assign jobs to individuals or small groups so that all share the work fairly.C. A way of gaining everyone’s attention by raising your right hand with all five fingers extended in the air. Girls

respond in similar manner until everyone has their right hand raised and is quiet.D. Girl Scouts of the United States of AmericaE. “Be Prepared.” F. “Do a good turn daily.”G. Everyone who joins Girl Scouting makes this promise.H. The law we are promising to live by when we say the Girl Scout Promise.I. A celebration honoring the birthday of Lord and Lady Baden-Powell. Girl Scouts and Girl Guides “think” about

each other on this day.

Safety___1. Buddy System___2. Girl/Adult Ratio___3. Volunteer Policies___4. Outdoor Workshops___5. Safety Activity Checkpoints

A. Specifically written by this council to promote the health and safety of the council’s girl and adult members.B. Every troop going camping is required to have one adult that has taken these.C. A safety practice in which two or three girls are grouped to keep watch over each other while completing

activities.D. Provides basic safety guidelines for a wide variety of specific activities in Girl Scouts.E. A safety practice of having a specific number of adults for a given number of girls.

Meetings and More____1. Pathways____2. Destinations____3. Bridging____4. Court of Awards____5. Troop____6. Flag Ceremony____7. Investiture Ceremony____8. Rededication Ceremony____9. WAGGGS___10. Fun

A. An event which recognizes the accomplishment of girls and adults.B. World Association of Girl Guides and Girl ScoutsC. The process of learning about the next grade level. Begun during the last year a girl is at a given level.D. What Juliette Low thought all troop meetings should include.E. A ceremony held to welcome new members, girls or adults, into Girl Scouting for the first time.F. The way(s) a girl can choose to participate in Girl Scouts (troop, camp, series, events, travel).G. Invested Girl Scouts renew their Promise and review what the Girl Scout Law means to them.H. National and international travel opportunities for girls.I. Consists of at least five girls from more than one familyJ. Part of any program that honors the American flag.

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ANSWERS GIRL SCOUT TERMSTraditions

__G__1. Girl Scout Promise

__E__2. Girl Scout Motto

__F__3. Girl Scout Slogan

__C__4. Quiet Sign

__A__5. Friendship Squeeze

__I__6. Thinking Day

__B__7. Kaper Chart

__H__8. Girl Scout Law

__D__9. GSUSA

Safety_C__1. Buddy System

_E__2. Girl/Adult Ratio

_A__3. Volunteer Policies

_B__4. Outdoor Courses

_D__5. Safety Activity Checkpoints

Meetings and More__F__1. Pathways

__H__2. Destinations

__C__3. Bridging

__A__4. Court of Awards

__I__5. Troop

__J__6. Flag Ceremony

__E__7. Investiture Ceremony

__G__8. Rededication Ceremony

__B__9. WAGGGS

__D_10. Fun

MORE GIRL SCOUT TERMSOf course you are not expected to remember all of these, but should you hear these terms, here is a resource to help you, but never hesitate to ask!Awards. Insignia that Girl Scouts can earn at different grade levels. They require meeting certain criteria before they can be awarded. Examples of awards are Daisy Petals, badges and Journey badge sets; and Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards.

Bridging. The move from one grade level of Girl Scouting to the next (e.g. from Brownie to Junior).

Bronze Award. An individual earned award which requires completion of a journey before accomplishing a special Bronze Award Take Action Project designed by the girl. This award is for Junior Girl Scouts.

Community Camp. A week long, overnight camp for girls held in the summer. Planned and implemented by volunteers.

Council. The Girl Scout organization is divided throughout the country into councils which are chartered by the national organization. Councils serve specified geographic areas. We are Girl Scouts of Western Washington.

Daisy or Brownie Ring. While sitting in a circle girls create a formal group decision-making body. They often pass an object like a Talking Stick to insure one girl speaks at a time.

Day Camp. Week long day events for girls held during the summer that are planned and implemented by Service Unit Volunteers. There is also a week long Getting Started – Offline Option.docAugust Version – Copyright 2014 – Girl Scouts of Western Washington

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day camp, repeated throughout the summer, planned and implemented by council staff and held at Camp River Ranch.

Diversity. The state of being different or diverse. When used to describe people, it encompasses many different kinds of factors. Some types of diversity include: Gender - Color - Race - Ethnicity - Culture - Disabilities - Abilities - Learning Styles - Age - Education - Geographic Location - Religion - Marital Status - Parental Status - Sexual Orientation - Physical Characteristics - Dress Preferences - Food Preferences - Talents and much more.

Enc amporee . A camping event planned and implemented by Service Units. Usually held at council owned camp sites, and lasting 1-2 days.

Family Camp. A week-end long camping experience for all family members held on Labor Day at Camp Robbinswold.

Financial Assistance. Funds available to girls and adults whose financial circumstances would keep them from participating in activities available to them.

Girl Guides. Comparable to Girl Scouts, it is a name used in many countries.

Girl’s Guide to Girl Scouting. New all-in-one handbook and badge book; available for Daisies through Ambassadors.

Girl Scout Leadership Experience – The Girl Scout Leadership Experience is the overriding “engine” around which all Girl Scout program is developed. Activities are developed around the three “keys” to leadership – Discover, Connect and Take Action and the outcomes for girls associated with each of these keys. (Sometimes referred to as GSLE.)

Girl Scout Processes – The three processes used to accomplish the desired Discover, Connect and Take Action outcomes core to the Girl Scout Leadership Experience. They are Girl Led, Learning by Doing, and Cooperative Learning.

Gold Award. The highest and most prestigious award that Girl Scout Seniors and Ambassadors can earn. Girls improve their communities creating projects that are sustainable, measureable and have a global connection. Grade Levels. Girl Scout program is structured by levels to accommodate the different developmental needs consistent with different age levels. They are Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Girl Scouts.

GSUSA. Girl Scouts of the United States of America – the parent organization.

Junior. Girl member in grades 4-5.

Journeys. Fun and challenging experiences for every grade level that are grouped around a theme and spread over a series of sessions. All the important components of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience are included in each journey.


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Low, Juliette Gordon (nickname – Daisy). Founder of Girl Scouting in the United States; she formed the first troop which met in Savannah, Georgia on March 12, 1912.

Mission. The reason the Girl Scout organization exists. Girl Scouts builds girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place.

Patrol System. Large troops divide into small groups, with every member playing a role. For Juniors – Ambassadors.

Petals and Leaves. Daisy awards. Individual petals and leaves are given to Daisies to wear on their tunics or vests each time they demonstrate understanding of some part of the Girl Scout Promise and Law.

Pluralism. A system that encourages or makes room for individuals or groups with different backgrounds, physical and mental abilities, experiences, cultures, and other diverse factors. It implies mutual respect.

Resident Camp. A sustained camping experience, with overnight sleeping at council camps including Camp River Ranch, Camp Robbinswold and Camp St. Albans.Silver Award. An individual earned award which requires completing a journey before accomplishing a special Silver Award Take Action Project designed by the girl. For Cadette Girl Scouts. This is the second highest award in Girl Scouting.

Service Unit. Girl Scout membership in a council is sub-divided into smaller geographical areas. Service units provide support to leaders and activities for girls.

Town Meeting. Business is discussed and decisions are made at meetings attended by all the girls in the troop. For Juniors – Ambassadors. Troop Camping. Indoor or outdoor overnight experiences taken by the troop on their own.

World Centers. Four program activity centers owned by WAGGGS (World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts). The centers are located in Mexico, England, India, and Switzerland.


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GETTING YOUR TROOP REGISTERED At least 2 adults and at least 5 girls are required for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior

troops. At least 2 adults and 3 girls are required for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador troops.

Registration fee is $15.00 for each girl or adult. Girl Scouts of Western Washington (GSWW) has a Financial Assistance Program to pay for those who cannot afford the membership registration.

Encourage troop parents and guardians need to register their daughters as soon as possible.

Parents and guardians can register their daughters and themselves on-line at https://gsusa.ebiz.uapps.net/vp/default.aspx?pid=9 or with paper forms.

Forward any paper registrations and fees you receive directly to the DuPont Girl Program Center.

PERMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Permission for Troop Meetings, Day Trips & Medical Care

All active Girl Scouts must have this form completed and retained by troop leader for each membership year of participation (Oct. 1–Sept. 30).

This information must be updated yearly and retained by troop leaders – complete with the date and original signature of parent/guardian.

The start of the school year is a great time to update these forms. Forms are on-line above or at regional offices.

Contact your staff member for ANY questions and to obtain the appropriate forms.


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http://www.girlscoutsww.org/files/PermissionMeetings-DayTrips-MedicalCare_edit.pdf

https://gsusa.ebiz.uapps.net/vp/default.aspx?pid=9

BANKING

Understanding how the money works in Girl Scouts can be challenge, so we'll break it down into small steps for you in this document. First you'll want to figure out who can be a signer on the troop account, learn about how Girl Scout bank accounts work, find the forms you'll need and understand the timelines involved in opening and activating your account.

SignersWhen determining who are going to be the signers on your troop account, you will want to understand who is eligible based on their position with the troop, what the minimum requirements are, and what important responsibilities come with being a signer. A common misconception is that the signers must be the troop leader and co-leader; actually you may want to consider your troop treasurer, troop helper, or troop product sales manager. Just keep in mind, there cannot be more than 3 signers on any account.

Signer eligibility requirements: All signers on the bank account must be over the age of 18. All signers must be registered Girl Scouts and have a minimum number of girls

registered Signers must be unrelated, by blood or marriage and living in separate

households. Signers, who want debit cards, must be willing to provide their social security

number and date of birth to the bank Signers must have successfully completed a background check. Signers must be willing to sign the volunteer financial agreement

It is the signer’s responsibility to: Keep the account active and with a minimum balance Guide and involve the girls in spending their money responsibly to support their

goals Ensure troop funds are used by the troop Make sound financial decisions Complete and turn in the Annual Troop Finance Report Ensure ALL bank account signers are held accountable for ALL FINANCIAL

ACTIVITY

Get to Know Your Account

Most of the resources mentioned in this document can be found on our website. To access them in the future, you will start on the main page, click on Current Volunteers, then click Forms on the left. There you'll find many useful categories of forms and information. For the ones covered here, you will want to click on Banking and Finance.The Banking and Finance area of the website is where you will do more research on your account options and features, and look at the handy Frequently Asked Questions. Getting Started – Offline Option.docAugust Version – Copyright 2014 – Girl Scouts of Western Washington

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Most new volunteers will want to choose the Key Bank account as it is most similar to a traditional checking account. There is a Bank of America account option which has been created just for Girl Scouts of Western Washington. You can do either, just keep in mind the Bank of America account is unique and services are more limited.

Account Details: The Fine Print

Account Description - Key Bank and Girl Scouts of Western Washington have joined together to offer troops the option to open and maintain a traditional bank account with online banking. A traditional bank account at Key provides services that include but are not limited to: paying by check or debit card, online account access ability to print statements and check copies online, no monthly service charge, and depositing at a teller window.

Fees and Fines - There is no monthly fee for Key Bank checking accounts. However, certain charges may apply for services such as requesting extra copies of statements, returned items, or overdrafts. As these are subject to change, please refer to our website for the most current information on fees and fines.

Statements - Printed Key Bank account monthly statement copies are available free of charge with online access. Online access is available for statements up to 12 months, and transaction history and check copies for 180 days. One copy of the monthly statement is also available free of charge via U.S. mail. A $6.00 charge to the troop/Service Unit bank account will be made for mailing duplicate or replacement statement copies.

Checks - Our council is no longer ordering checks through Key Bank, as they are more expensive than other options. If you want checks, do not order them from a Key Bank branch employee. The checks are not free, no matter what the branch employee says. To save money, please purchase checks through a third-party check printer.

Cards - You can request up to two debit cards per account. Social Security number and date of birth are required on a completed Signature Card, mailed via US mail to the Banking Coordinator. Once the full application process is complete, you should receive your cards approximately 10 days after receiving email notification the new Key Bank account is open. If your card is lost or stolen, contact the GSWW Banking Coordinator first. There is no fee associated with replacement cards.

Bank of America - Bank of America has tailored a unique volunteer bank account card banking system just for Girl Scouts of Western Washington as an alternative to traditional bank accounts. This is a check-free bank account for troops and service units, online access for viewing account information and printing statements with no monthly service charge. Customer service from a live agent either on the phone or in a branch will incur a fee. This banking system is composed of two card types; deposit card(s) for making deposits via BofA ATMs and one debit card for payments. Deposits post into a centralized Council account and will then be loaded electronically to the troop or Service Unit debit card once per week. Replacement of lost or stolen cards will incur a fee. For expenditures where debit card payments are not an option, payments with supporting documentation can be paid via cash through ATM withdrawal, money order, or the account card owner (signer) can submit a Payment Request form to GSWW electronically. Payment requests will be paid on a weekly basis with the Getting Started – Offline Option.docAugust Version – Copyright 2014 – Girl Scouts of Western Washington

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corresponding payment amount reduction of the troop or Service Unit account debit card balance.

Annual Troop Finance Report

Once you get your troop account going, here's what you'll want to do throughout the year. First, look at the Annual troop finance reports and guidelines so you know what to expect. Next, create a system to keep everything organized. Be sure to involve the girls in building their financial literacy skills and share openly with families how the troop is managing its money. Then, in June complete your year-end reporting ON TIME!

Every year, all troops turn in an Annual Troop Finance Report. The guidelines give more details, but basically it's an opportunity to model openness, integrity, and financial literacy for your girls. It is also a safeguard for you in the event a parent or co-leader questions your management of troop funds. It holds all signers responsible for maintaining clear accounting practices and proving that the girls' money has been managed wisely. All reports have to be filed by June 20th. Bank accounts with delinquent reports MAY be closed subject to complete review and audit by the Girl Scouts of Western WA finance department. The first thing to do is take a look at the report, so you know what to expect. A copy of the report can be obtained online or at your local Girl Scout office.

The first page is pretty easy, mostly troop, signer, and account information. The second is an accounting detail report. We are going to give you some really simple strategies for organizing and tracking throughout the year so you will not be overwhelmed. Take special note of the income and expense categories. For income there's dues, financial aid, fall product sales, cookies, and other money earning activities. For expenses there's programs, events, and camps with Girl Scouts of Western WA, programs and events not through the council, food and beverages, troop lies, troop equipment, community service project costs, and bank charges.

You’re busy, you pick up some supplies for the troop and throw the receipt in your purse or the glovebox. A bank statement comes, gets put down, never to be seen again. In Getting Started – Offline Option.docAugust Version – Copyright 2014 – Girl Scouts of Western Washington

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the back of your mind, you promise to deal with it…later. Only now it’s June, and that report is due, and you’re a stressed-out mess. To avoid this, there are a few simple things you can do throughout the year that will keep you organized. Then, when reporting time comes, all you have to do is plug in some numbers. To start, whenever you make a transaction, or receive account information, label it. Remember those income and expense categories? This is how it works: when you buy gear or supplies, hang on to the receipts. When it’s cookie season and you’re making a deposit, and you also have the dues you collected at this week’s meeting- DON’T deposit them together. Take the time to do two transactions and label them accordingly. If you get an email with important account information or a confirmation of funds deposited from Financial Assistance, print them out. What to do with all this paper? Make three folders for income, expenses, and documents, then file your papers accordingly.

You are doing a great job keeping all your paper in the right folders. That is more than half the battle! But to really make year-end reporting and sharing with your families an easy process, you'll want to transfer the numbers into a spreadsheet called the 'troop detailed cash record' which you can access from our website on the same page as all the banking forms. You may also chose to use a spreadsheet or accounting tool you’re already familiar with. We provide this tool to make it as simple as possible since all the totals will go directly into your Accounting Detail Report. Can you do all this yourself? Sure! Do you want to? Not likely. This is why you'll really want to make a pitch for getting a troop treasurer. And, set up a time every month to hand off your folders so he or she can enter the numbers into the spreadsheet and make sure everything matches up with the bank statements. Even better, if you can have the treasurer come to a troop meeting so the girls can help organize and enter numbers. Financial literacy is one of the key skills girls can gain through involvement with girl scouts and it's never too soon to start!

Who does the money belong to?

Getting the girls involved and keeping families in the know about troop finances are valuable and important responsibilities. And, we all know from experience that not everyone agrees on how money should be earned, saved, or spent. Confusion and conflict can be avoided with honest, open dialogue and clear agreements. The first thing to understand is that GSWW is a non-profit organization. We need to follow VERY strict rules from the IRS about how money is made and used. When your troop engages in a money earning activity, the primary goal is financial literacy and skill building for girls as part of a program; the money belongs to the whole troop and is spent on supplies and activities that benefit the whole troop, NOT individual girls. If a girl leaves the troop, there is no expectation she can take 'her share' with her.

Things can get uncomfortable when there is the perception that some girls (and families) did more or worked harder and therefore deserve a 'bigger cut,' especially during cookie season. But, money CANNOT be tracked by individual amounts per girl within the troop account. So before any money is earned, it will be really important that girls and families understand this. You may need to be creative about including everyone in reaching financial goals. For example, maybe a girl and her parents are unable to assist at cookie booth sales, but they can contribute by making posters, costumes, or an eye-catching table banner.


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Meeting Site ConsiderationsThere are three main categories of meetings sites. The first is public, which includes libraries, community centers, and similar venues. The second is semi-private, which includes schools, places of worship, workplaces, non-profit organizations, and Girl Scouts of Western Washington regional offices. The final category is private, such as a house or apartment. There are pros and cons to all these types of meeting spaces. There is a Site Safety Checklist on page 69 that will help you determine whether a meeting space is appropriate.

Some things you want to consider for public spaces are:

Public meeting spaces will have posted emergency plans that you can simply read and follow.

They will often have fully stocked first aid kits and appropriate fire suppression equipment available.

They will be accessible for people with disabilities. You will want to double check that there is easy access to drinking water and

bathrooms. Some public spaces may charge a fee or be hard to schedule. You will want to check the space to ensure it has: enough room for your

activities, appropriately sized furniture, and outdoor access if your activities require it.

Some public spaces may prohibit food and drink. If you plan to have snacks as part of your meetings, you will want to clarify before booking these spaces.

The meeting space must be free of anything that would communicate a bias against any religion, ethnicity, class, gender, ability, appearance, or sexual orientation.

Public spaces sometimes require users to sign documents acknowledging their rules. The person reserving the space should sign this document.

Public spaces may also require a release of liability or a hold harmless agreement. Documents like these MUST be signed by a Girl Scout STAFF member. Please check with your Troop Program Manager for more details.

Some things you want to consider for semi-private spaces are:

Semi-private meeting spaces will have posted emergency plans that you can simply read and follow.

They will often have fully stocked first aid kits and appropriate fire suppression equipment available.

They will be accessible for people with disabilities.


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You will want to double check that there is easy access to drinking water and bathrooms.

Some semi-private spaces may charge a fee or be hard to schedule. You will want to check the space to ensure it has: enough room for your

activities, appropriately sized furniture, and outdoor access if your activities require it.

Some semi-private spaces may prohibit food and drink in certain rooms. If you plan to have snacks as part of your meetings, you will want to clarify before booking these spaces.

The meeting space must be free of anything that would communicate a bias against any religion, ethnicity, class, gender, ability, appearance, or sexual orientation.

Semi-private spaces sometimes require users to sign documents acknowledging their rules. The person reserving the space should sign this document.

Semi-private spaces will often require a release of liability or a hold harmless agreement. Documents like these MUST be signed by a Girl Scout STAFF member. Please check with your Troop Program Manager for more details.

Girl Scouts of Western Washington does not recommend meeting at private residences. If you chose to meet at someone’s home, some things to keep in mind are:

Private homes rarely have posted emergency plans. You will need to create one and make sure all the families involved in the troop are aware of it.

You will be in charge of providing a fully stocked first aid kit, and for making sure that there is appropriate fire suppression equipment available in the home. Fire extinguishers must be fully charged and within their expiration date.

All firearms and ammunition must be appropriately locked and stored away from the girls.

All medications, alcohol, tobacco, and drugs must be securely stored away from the meeting space.

If the home has pets, the girls must not be allergic to the type of pet present. The pets must be very kid-friendly and not distract from the meeting activities.

You will want to check the space to ensure it has: enough room for your activities, appropriately sized furniture, and outdoor access if your activities require it.

The home must provide adequate accessibility to all girls in the troop. The meeting space must be free of anything that would communicate a bias

against any religion, ethnicity, class, gender, ability, appearance, or sexual orientation.

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Some public and semi-private spaces may also request a Certificate of Insurance (COI). If you need a COI for your meeting space, contact your Troop Program Manager. You can also find this information our website, go to “Current Volunteers” – “Forms” – “Insurance”. The Insurance Forms section of the website also has lots of other useful insurance information, such as who is covered by our insurance and when/how you should purchase additional insurance for non-members. You should also keep in mind that regardless of the type of meeting space, Girl Scout Insurance covers injuries of registered members. It does not cover property damage, so if a girl breaks an item or causes damage to the space, it will not be covered.


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Site Safety Checklist

This document will help you determine if a site is appropriate for meetings. When doing a site walk through, bring this sheet and check “Yes” or “No” in the boxes as appropriate. Your notes can capture your ideas on how to address a particular issue and remind you to discuss any concerns with fellow volunteers/parents/site hosts.

The items in this first section should always be checked “Yes” for a site to be appropriate. If any of the statements are not true for the venue you are considering, then you should continue looking for a different site, unless you or your hosts are able to make reasonable fixes.

Thing to consider Yes No NotesIs the space clean, sanitary, and free of any health and safety hazards (such as broken equipment, flammable/toxic materials, spoiled food, clogged drains or unsanitary toilets)?Does the space have adequate lighting and ventilation?Does an emergency plan exist for the space and do you know this plan? (If meeting in a home, one will likely need to be created.)Is there appropriate fire suppression equipment available in the space?Is there a complete first-aid kit?Are clean drinking water and restrooms available and easily accessible to all youth and adults?Is the space large enough for all girls and adults to inhabit, and participate in activities, with enough personal space to be comfortable?If the site is a personal home containing firearms, are they all properly stored unloaded and locked away?Is the meeting space free of alcohol, tobacco, legal and illegal drugs/medications? If there are pets in the home, are Getting Started – Offline Option.docAugust Version – Copyright 2014 – Girl Scouts of Western Washington

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they kid friendly? (You will need to check if any of the girls or adults have pet allergies.)

The items in this section are good things to consider, but not necessarily required. If your venue has more than one or two “No” boxes checked, you might want to consider selecting a different space.Thing to consider Yes No NotesIs there enough furniture of appropriate sizes for all the girls and adults?Can the space be modified to meet the needs of the different activities you plan to do?Is there access to an outdoor area or larger open space for more physical activities?Is the temperature comfortable or able to be adjusted as needed?

We often prioritize physical safety, but it is good to remember that emotional safety is hugely important in ensuring participation. This section contains things to consider so that ALL girls and adults feel welcome.Things to consider Yes No NotesDoes the set-up of the space allow you to see and warmly greet each girl as they enter?If the site is in a place of worship, is the meeting space welcoming to girls of all religions and mostly free (or could be made mostly free) of religious imagery that could make girls or adults of other faiths or no faith uncomfortable?Is there anything in the site that would communicate a bias against any religion, ethnicity, class, gender, ability, appearance, or sexual orientation?

***Please remember with any meeting site you chose, Girl Scouts always leave a place nicer than they found it. When your troop leaves your selected venue, all items should be put back the way they were originally, and all program supplies should be packed away or taken with you (this includes, but is not limited to, glitter, paper scraps, markers, leftover snacks, etc.). When this is not done, it damages our relationship with the hosts, meaning that not only your troop, but future troops and other Girl Scout groups may lose


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access to the meeting space.


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Emergency Action PlansThere should always be an Emergency Action Plan specific to your location. Your girls, volunteer, and parents should all be aware of this plan in case there is a natural disaster or emergency such as fire, earthquakes, injuries or illness, missing children or intruders. Consider how much orientation and practice the girls need. They need to know what to do in an emergency, but we don’t want to frighten them.

Does the management of the site have an emergency plans tailored to the location? ASK! One of the benefits to meeting at a public venue is the emergency plan is already created and posted. All you have to do is inform your girls, volunteers, and parents.

If you meet in a venue that does not have an emergency plan, the following areas need to be taken into consideration when creating your plan:

Layout – Facility Entry and exit routes for EMS First Aid kit location Phones and emergency equipment locations Exit and evacuation routes

Equipment Rescue equipment available (defibrillator, etc.) and location Additional first aid supplies What emergency equipment is available (flashlights, fire extinguishers, etc.)

Additional Support Are there site personnel who can offer you support? Have the contact info for Girl Scouts of Western Washington handy – during

business hours call 206-633-5600 or 1-800-767-6845 After business hours call 1-800-303-9963

Do not discuss the incident or make any statements. Do not surrender permission slips or medical records.

Communication Have contact information for parents and emergency contacts readily available in

case you need to call them to evacuate the girls Have cellphone numbers for on-site volunteers and offsite support volunteers

Volunteer Responsibilities – Assign volunteers duties in case of an emergency. Who will help the First Aider if needed? Who will meet EMS personnel? Who will contact the Girl Scout office? Who will keep the girls safe and calm?


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Follow–up Complete appropriate paperwork Replace any supplies that were used Review your Emergency Action Plan

An outline for a plan is on the next page, to help you get started with your planning. For more details to consider when creating your plan, check out the Planning for Emergencies document.


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https://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/volunteer-learning/Getting%20Started%20A%20Workshop%20for%20New%20Leaders/Planning_for_Emergencies.pdf

https://www.girlscoutsww.org/current-volunteers/volunteer-learning/Getting%20Started%20A%20Workshop%20for%20New%20Leaders/Planning_for_Emergencies.pdf

EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN

Name of Facility

Address

Facility Phone Number _________________ Location of land-line phone

Closest Urgent Care Facility: ________________________________________

Closest Emergency Room: __________________________________________

GSWW Phone # 206-633-5600/1-800-767-6845 after hours 1-800-303-9963

First Aider:

First Aid Helpers:

EMS Greeter:

Everyone else should stay with girls.

Evacuation/Shelter/Meeting locations in case of:

Fire

Earthquake:

Flood:

Intruder:

Other: Getting Started – Offline Option.docAugust Version – Copyright 2014 – Girl Scouts of Western Washington

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Anything else that is specific to your event’s location:

How do you know who is present at the event? Are they all accounted for?

Our Attendance Procedure:


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Incident ReportingHopefully, your time as a Girl Scout volunteer will be completely incident-free. But, if you find yourself in a situation wondering how to fill out an incident report form and handle all communication about the incident properly, then here are some REALLY important guidelines.

First, make sure you always have a couple incident report forms on you.

If you are not sure if a report is necessary, when in doubt, fill one out. Do it as soon after the incident occurs as is humanly possible. Keep a copy for you records and mail or email the original to the address indicated within one business day.

On the form be as accurate and detailed as possible. Stick to the facts! And provide as much contact information from those present as you can.

If there is additional information that may provide context for why or how the incident occurred, but is your opinion or interpretation, share that with your troop program manager separately. The Incident Report Form should only include facts and information about the incident itself. And speaking of your troop program manager, any time you send in a report you also need to inform them.

The parents or guardians of the girl or girls involved will need to be informed immediately.

Use your best judgment in determining if all the troop family members should get a notification. If the incident is NOT of a private or sensitive nature, and all the girls witnessed what occured and may have

strong feelings, then giving families a heads up is a good idea.

And finally, do not make statements of any kind to the media or other parties.


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The Girl Scout Cookie Program“Learn and Earn”

The 5 Skills and Girl Scout Leadership OutcomesHere’s Why the 5 Skills Matter!

Everything girls do in Girl Scouting is designed to help them grow into leaders of Courage, Confidence, and Character. The 5 Skills that girls learn through the Girl Scout Cookie Program are an important ingredient in the Girl Scout Leadership Experience.

Here are a few examples of how participating in the Cookie Program teaches Girl Scouts skills that will help them grow into leaders in their own lives, leaders in business, and leaders in the world:

The 5 Skills Leadership Benefits in Girl Scouting and Beyond

1. GOAL SETTING: Girls set cookie sales goals individually and, with their team, create a plan to reach them. They develop Cooperation and Team Building skills all along the way! Plus,

They learn the skills to help keep classmates on task to

complete a group project. When the time comes, they’ll be ready to create a

well- thought-out plan for researching colleges

and applying forscholarships.

2. DECISION MAKING: Girls decide where and when to sell cookies, how to market their sale, and help decide how their team will spend their cookie money, furthering the Critical Thinking and Problem Solving skills that will help them in many aspects of their lives. And,

They can decide how to use their babysitting money-

spend some, save some, give some to those in need.


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The 15 Outcomes of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience Discover

·Girls develop a strong sense of self ·Girls develop positive values ·Girls gain practical life skills ·Girls seek challenges in the world ·Girls develop critical thinking

Connect

·Girls develop healthy relationships ·Girls promote cooperation and team building ·Girls can resolve conflicts ·Girls advance diversity in a multicultural world ·Girls feel connected to their communities, locally and globally

Take Action

·Girls can identify community needs ·Girls are resourceful problem solvers ·Girls advocate for themselves and others, locally and globally ·Girls educate and inspire others to act ·Girls feel empowered to make a difference in the world

As they grow up, they’ll know when and how to give back to their community, or how to develop a business plan.

3. MONEY MANAGEMENT: Girls develop a budget for accomplishing goals; they take cookie orders, handle customers’ money, and gain valuable and Practical Life Skills around financial literacy. So,

They will be wiser with their money- from their allowance and lunch money, to someday, their paychecks.

They can handle a checking account, help with the grocery budget, and even stay on top of their cell phone bills!

4. PEOPLE SKILLS: Girls learn how to talk to, listen to, and work with all kinds of people while selling cookies. They also learn how to work as a team with other girls. These experiences help them develop Healthy Relationship and Conflict Resolution skills that they can use throughout their lives. Then,

They can ask for help, encourage people to support them, and find ways to include others.

They will do better in school, on sports teams, on the playground, and later, at work.

5. BUSINESS ETHICS: Girls are honest and responsible at every step of the cookie sale. Their business ethics reinforce the Positive Values they are developing as Girl Scouts. As a result,

Their friends, teachers, and later, co-workers and employers count on them and think of them as trustworthy, reliable, and honest.

They’ll develop excellent references for when they apply for college or seek employment.

The Girl Scouts, who participate in cookie sales, learn skills that will serve them throughout their lives; and the money they earn helps to fund their troop’s goals, fun activities, travel, and meaningful community service projects. But that’s not all. With the cookie sales, Girl Scouts of Western Washington is able to provide for our fantastic camps and the staff who support all our wonderful volunteers like you! These funds also make it possible to offer financial assistance, so every girl has a chance to experience Girl Scout leadership.

What’s next? Your troop will want to select a Troop Cookie Manager, who will receive special instruction on how to help manage the sales. You can also communicate with your Service Unit Manager and Service Unit Cookie Manager, if you have questions. Plus, there are a lot of very useful and inspirational online RESOURCES:


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To learn more about the Girl Scout Leadership Experience, visit www.girlscouts.org/gsle

For more information on the Girl Scout Cookie Program, visit www.girlscouts.org/cookies and www.girlscoutsww.org/cookies-and-more/

For lots of fun activities for every age group and inspiring videos showing the impact girls and cookies can have, visit http://littlebrowniebakers.com/

Every Cookie Has a Mission:TO HELP GIRLS

DO GREAT THINGS


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http://littlebrowniebakers.com/


http://www.girlscouts.org/cookies

http://www.girlscouts.org/gsle

CONGRATULATIONS!YOU HAVE COMPLETED THE GETTING STARTED

OFFLINE PACKET

Use the space provided to list any questions you may have for your coach about the material covered in this packet:

To receive credit for completing this packet, please complete the following steps: Keep this copy for yourself to use during your conversations with your coach.

Fill out the Completion Pages and e-mail or mail to:

Carrol Harris at: [email protected] - or -

Attention Carrol HarrisGirl Scouts of Western Washington601 Valley StreetSeattle WA 98109


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