10 Fun Activities To Do With Girl Scouts

Are you a Girl Scout leader or parent looking for fun and engaging activities for your troop? Look no further! We've compiled a list of 10 exciting and interactive activities that will keep your Girl Scouts entertained and inspired. Whether it's exploring nature, learning new skills, or giving back to the community, these activities will not only be enjoyable but also promote teamwork, leadership, and personal growth. Get ready to have a blast with these 10 fun activities to do with Girl Scouts!

Going on a nature hike at a local park or nature reserve

• Learning about the environment: A nature hike provides an opportunity for Girl Scouts to learn about their local ecosystem and the plants and animals that inhabit it. They can learn about the importance of biodiversity and how different species are interconnected. They can also learn about the impact of human activities on the environment and ways to conserve and protect it.
• Developing observation skills: Going on a nature hike encourages Girl Scouts to be observant and pay attention to their surroundings. They can learn to identify different plants, birds, insects, and animals by their characteristics. They can also learn to recognize signs of environmental changes, such as pollution or deforestation, and understand their consequences.
• Physical activity and fitness: A nature hike provides an opportunity for Girl Scouts to engage in physical activity and exercise. It helps them develop their endurance, balance, and coordination. Walking on uneven terrain and navigating through trails can be challenging and fun at the same time.
• Teamwork and camaraderie: Going on a nature hike as a group fosters teamwork and cooperation among the Girl Scouts. They can work together to navigate the trails, help each other overcome obstacles, and share knowledge and experiences. It encourages them to support and encourage one another, cultivating a sense of camaraderie and friendship.
• Connecting with nature and reducing stress: Spending time in nature has been proven to have numerous benefits for mental health. It helps reduce stress, anxiety, and improves overall well-being. This is particularly important for Girl Scouts who may be experiencing academic or personal pressures. A nature hike provides them with an opportunity to connect with nature, unwind, and experience a sense of calm and tranquility.

Before going on a nature hike, it is essential to plan and prepare accordingly. Ensure that you have the necessary permits or permissions to visit the park or nature reserve. It is also crucial to have a first-aid kit, sufficient water, and snacks for the girls. Make sure you have knowledgeable guides or experts who can provide information about the local environment and identify different species.

In conclusion, going on a nature hike with Girl Scouts is a fantastic activity that combines learning, physical activity, and connection with nature. It allows them to develop important skills, foster teamwork, and cultivate a sense of environmental awareness and responsibility. So, gather your Girl Scout troop, put on your hiking boots, and embark on an exciting adventure in the great outdoors!

Hosting a movie night with popcorn and snacks at a troop member's house

• Choose the movie: Before the event, gather the girls and ask for their input on which movie they would like to watch. Consider age-appropriate options and make sure to select a film that aligns with Girl Scout values.
• Find a host: Reach out to one of the troop members' families and ask if they would be willing to host the movie night at their house. Make sure the location is convenient for everyone to easily attend.
• Set a date and time: Work with the troop members and their families to determine a suitable date and time for the movie night. Consider weekends or a school holiday to ensure maximum attendance.
• Create invitations: Design and distribute invitations to all troop members. Make sure to include the movie title, date, time, and location. You can use paper invitations or consider using digital options like email or WhatsApp.
• Plan the snacks: Movie nights are incomplete without delicious snacks. Brainstorm snack ideas with the troop members and decide on a menu. Popcorn is a classic choice, but make sure to include other options like chips, pretzels, candy, and drinks. Consider any dietary restrictions or allergies when planning.
• Prepare the space: On the day of the movie night, set up the living room or designated area with comfortable seating arrangements. Make sure there are blankets and pillows available for those who prefer a cozy movie-watching experience.
• Test the technology: Ensure that the host's television and DVD player or streaming device are functioning well. Test the sound system and subtitles if needed. Make sure there are no technical issues that may disrupt the movie-watching experience.
• Decorate the space: To enhance the movie night atmosphere, consider decorating the area with movie-themed decorations like posters, banners, or fairy lights. These small touches will make the event feel even more special.
• Enjoy the movie: Once everything is set up, sit back, relax, and enjoy the movie with the troop members. Encourage everyone to engage in discussions during breaks or after the movie. It can be a great opportunity to share thoughts, feelings, and build connections among the girls.
• Clean up: After the movie night ends, make sure to clean up the space. Collect any trash, put away the decorations, and leave the host's house in the same condition it was before the event.
• Thank the host: Send a thank-you note or have the troop members express their gratitude to the host and their family for opening their house for the movie night.

Visiting a local animal shelter to volunteer and play with the animals

When it comes to Girl Scouts, there is no shortage of meaningful activities that can be done with the troop. One such activity that combines the values of community service and compassion is visiting a local animal shelter. This not only gives the Girl Scouts a chance to bond and learn important life lessons, but also provides them with an opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of animals in need.

Visiting a local animal shelter with the Girl Scouts can be a fun and educational experience for the troop. It allows the girls to learn about the importance of animal welfare and the role that shelters play in providing a safe haven for abandoned and abused animals. Additionally, it gives them an insight into the day-to-day operations of a shelter and the various tasks involved in caring for animals.

At the shelter, the girls can engage in a variety of meaningful activities. One such activity is volunteering. They can assist the shelter staff with tasks such as feeding the animals, cleaning their living areas, and grooming them. This hands-on experience can teach the Girl Scouts the importance of responsibility and the impact that small actions can have on the lives of others.

Moreover, visiting a local animal shelter also provides the girls with an opportunity to interact with the animals. Playing with the animals can bring immense joy to both the Girl Scouts and the animals. It allows the girls to develop a sense of empathy and compassion towards animals while providing the animals with much-needed companionship and love.

While visiting an animal shelter, the Girl Scouts can also learn about responsible pet ownership and the importance of spaying and neutering pets. They can engage in discussions with the shelter staff and ask questions about the animals and their care. These interactions can help the girls broaden their understanding of animal welfare issues and develop a sense of empathy towards animals.

In conclusion, visiting a local animal shelter is a wonderful activity that Girl Scouts can engage in. It teaches them important life skills such as responsibility, compassion, and empathy. By volunteering and playing with the animals, the girls not only make a positive impact on the lives of the animals but also create memories that will last a lifetime. So why not gather your troop and plan a visit to a local animal shelter? It's an activity that is both enjoyable and meaningful for everyone involved.

Organizing a craft night to make friendship bracelets or DIY ornaments

• Planning: Start by selecting a date and time for the craft night. Consider the availability of the girls and their parents. Once you have chosen a date, inform the girls and their parents about the event and ask for their confirmation.
• Choose a Location: Decide on a suitable location for your craft night. It could be at a scout meeting place, a community center, or even someone's home. Make sure the space is large enough to accommodate all the girls and has enough tables or workstations for everyone to work comfortably.
• Materials and Supplies: Create a list of materials and supplies needed for the friendship bracelets or DIY ornaments. This may include different colors of embroidery floss, beads, charms, scissors, glue, and any other decorative elements you may want to add. Check with the girls and their parents if they have any allergies or sensitivities to certain materials.
• Assign Tasks: Divide the girls into small groups and assign each group a task. This could be cutting the thread, organizing the beads, or preparing the workstations. This will ensure that everyone has a role to play and that the craft night runs smoothly.
• Demonstrations and Instructions: Before the girls start working on their friendship bracelets or DIY ornaments, provide a quick demonstration and give them clear instructions on how to make them. You can find tutorials online or even invite a guest speaker who is proficient in the craft to guide the girls.
• Start Crafting: Once the girls have understood the instructions, let them begin crafting their friendship bracelets or DIY ornaments. Encourage them to be creative and to help each other if someone is struggling with a particular technique.
• Snacks and Refreshments: To make the craft night even more enjoyable, provide snacks and refreshments for the girls. Set up a small table with treats such as popcorn, pretzels, fruit, and drinks.
• Show and Tell: At the end of the craft night, ask each girl to share her creation with the group. This will give the girls an opportunity to appreciate each other's work and feel proud of their own accomplishments.
• Clean-up: Before leaving, make sure to clean up the space and put away any leftover materials or supplies. Encourage the girls to help with the clean-up process as it teaches them responsibility and the importance of taking care of their surroundings.
• Follow-up Activity: To keep the momentum going, consider planning a follow-up activity related to the craft night. This could be a friendship bracelet exchange, where the girls give their creations to each other, or a tree-decorating event, where they can showcase their DIY ornaments.

Going on a scavenger hunt around town to discover hidden gems and landmarks

Going on a scavenger hunt is a fun and exciting activity that the Girl Scouts can participate in. It allows girls to explore their community, discover hidden gems, and learn about their town's history and landmarks. Scavenger hunts also encourage teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. Here are some ideas for a scavenger hunt that Girl Scouts can enjoy.

Firstly, it's important to plan the scavenger hunt route. Before the activity, leaders should map out a trail around town, including various stops at different points of interest. This can include historical buildings, parks, murals, or any other notable locations. Each stop should have a clue or challenge associated with it for the Girl Scouts to solve.

On the day of the scavenger hunt, divide the girls into smaller teams and give each team a map of the route. The map should have the starting point marked, as well as the locations of each stop along the way. Each team should also be given a list of clues or challenges that correspond to each stop.

At each stop, teams will need to solve a clue or complete a challenge to receive their next clue. For example, at a historical building, the clue might involve finding the year it was built or the architect's name. At a park, the challenge could be to find a specific tree or statue.

To make the scavenger hunt even more engaging, incorporate some additional activities. For example, ask the girls to take pictures of certain landmarks, collect small items related to each stop, or complete a task at each location. These tasks can be fun and creative, such as taking a group selfie or collecting leaves from different trees.

To add some friendly competition, you can also include a time limit or award points for completing challenges quickly. At the end of the scavenger hunt, gather all the teams together and tally up the points or completion time. Consider giving small prizes or certificates to the winning team.

During the scavenger hunt, leaders should accompany the teams to ensure everyone's safety and to offer support if needed. Additionally, it's a good idea to have a mobile phone or walkie-talkie on hand in case of emergencies or if the teams need assistance.

Going on a scavenger hunt with the Girl Scouts is an enjoyable way for girls to bond, explore their town, and learn about its history and landmarks. It promotes teamwork, problem-solving, and outdoor activity, all while having fun and making memories together. So grab a map, solve some clues, and embark on an exciting adventure with your Girl Scout troop!

Having a potluck picnic in a nearby park or beach

As a Girl Scout leader or troop member, you may be looking for fun and engaging activities to do with your troop. One great idea is to have a potluck picnic in a nearby park or beach. Not only is this a great opportunity to spend time outdoors, but it also allows the girls to learn important skills such as teamwork, planning, and cooking.

To start planning your potluck picnic, begin by choosing a date and location. Look for a park or beach that has picnic tables, grills, and plenty of space for the girls to play and explore. Make sure to check for any permits or reservations that may be required.

Next, assign each girl with a specific dish to contribute to the potluck. Encourage them to choose a recipe they enjoy or something they have been wanting to try. This allows the girls to develop their cooking skills and learn about different types of cuisines.

Before the picnic, have a meeting with the girls to discuss food safety and hygiene. Teach them about proper handwashing, storing and handling food, and the importance of keeping hot foods hot and cold foods cold. This is a great opportunity to introduce the girls to the basics of food preparation and safety.

On the day of the picnic, have the girls arrive with their dish and any necessary serving utensils. As a group, set up the picnic area and organize the food on the tables. Encourage the girls to explain their dish to their fellow troop members and try a little bit of everything.

During the picnic, take some time for reflection and discussion. Ask the girls what they enjoyed about the potluck picnic and what they learned from the experience. Discuss any challenges they faced and how they overcame them. This allows the girls to reflect on their cooking skills, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.

After the picnic, make sure to clean up the area and properly dispose of any leftover food. Encourage the girls to work together to leave the space better than they found it. This reinforces the importance of being responsible citizens and taking care of the environment.

In conclusion, having a potluck picnic with your Girl Scout troop is a fun and educational activity. It allows the girls to develop important skills such as teamwork, planning, and cooking. By assigning each girl a dish to contribute, they can learn about different cuisines and develop their cooking skills. This activity also provides an opportunity for reflection and discussion, allowing the girls to learn from their experience. So gather your troop and head out to a nearby park or beach for a memorable potluck picnic!

Arranging a trip to a trampoline park or indoor rock climbing facility

Step 1: Research and Choose a Venue

Start by researching trampoline parks and indoor rock climbing facilities in your area. Look for places that have good reviews, a variety of activities, and suitable facilities for all ages. Consider factors such as safety, cleanliness, availability of instructors, and pricing.

Step 2: Contact the Venue

Once you have selected a venue, reach out to them to learn more about their group packages, group rates, and any special requirements they might have. It's important to make reservations in advance to ensure availability and avoid any disappointments.

Step 3: Set a Date and Time

Discuss potential dates and times with your troop and try to find a time that works best for everyone. Keep in mind that weekends or school holidays are often popular times for such activities, so it's essential to book well in advance.

Step 4: Plan Transportation

Arrange transportation to and from the venue. Depending on the distance and group size, you may need to hire a bus or coordinate carpooling. Ensure that you have enough seatbelts for everyone and always prioritize safety on the road.

Step 5: Communicate with Parents

Inform parents about the upcoming trip and provide them with all the necessary details, such as the date, time, location, cost, and any specific requirements or restrictions. Ask for their permission and make sure they provide emergency contact information.

Step 6: Prepare the Girls

Before the trip, hold a meeting with your Girl Scouts to explain the activities they will be participating in and provide any safety guidelines or instructions they need to follow. Discuss what to wear and what to bring, such as comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, water bottles, and snacks.

Step 7: Safety First

When you arrive at the venue, make sure to check-in with the staff and familiarize yourself with any safety procedures. Remind the girls about proper behavior, rules, and guidelines, emphasizing that safety is of the utmost importance. Assign adult chaperones to supervise the girls throughout the day.

Step 8: Have Fun!

Now it's time to let loose and have a blast! Encourage the girls to try new activities, conquer their fears, and support one another. Take plenty of pictures and videos to capture their memorable moments. It's a great opportunity for them to bond and create lasting memories.

Step 9: Reflect and Appreciate

After the trip, gather the girls for a reflection session. Ask them to share their favorite moments, what they learned, and how they felt during the activities. Reinforce the values of teamwork, courage, and perseverance.

Step 10: Express Gratitude

Don't forget to express your gratitude to the venue staff, bus driver, and parent chaperones for their assistance in making the trip a success. A simple thank you note or gesture can go a long way in showing appreciation.

By following these steps, you can arrange a fun and exciting trip to a trampoline park or indoor rock climbing facility that your Girl Scout troop won't soon forget. It's an excellent opportunity for the girls to challenge themselves, build camaraderie, and have a fantastic time together.

Participating in a community service project, such as cleaning up a local park

Participating in a community service project is a fantastic way for Girl Scouts to make a positive impact in their local community. One popular community service project that Girl Scout troops often engage in is cleaning up a local park. Not only does this activity help to beautify the park for everyone to enjoy, but it also teaches Girl Scouts the value of taking care of their environment and working together as a team.

To begin, Girl Scout leaders can work with their troops to identify a local park in need of maintenance. This could be a park in the neighborhood where the troop meets or a park that the girls frequently visit for recreational activities. Once a park has been chosen, the troop can contact the park's management and request permission to organize a clean-up event.

Next, the troop should plan the logistics of the clean-up project. This includes determining the date and time of the event, ensuring that enough adult volunteers will be present to supervise the girls, and making a list of the supplies needed for the project. Girl Scouts can then reach out to their local community for support. This could involve asking for donations of gloves, trash bags, rakes, brooms, and other cleaning supplies. Additionally, the troop can ask for volunteers from the community to join in on the clean-up day.

On the day of the event, the Girl Scouts should arrive at the park with enthusiasm and a can-do attitude. They can split into teams, with each team focusing on a specific area of the park. Some girls can be assigned to pick up trash, while others can work on weeding flower beds or sweeping walkways. It's important for the troop leaders to provide guidance and supervision to ensure that the clean-up runs smoothly.

As the girls work together to clean up the park, they will not only be improving the appearance of the space, but they will also be developing important life skills. They will learn the value of working as a team, taking responsibility for their community, and giving back. Plus, they'll be able to see the tangible results of their hard work at the end of the day.

After the clean-up is completed, it's essential to celebrate the girls' accomplishments. This can be done by hosting a small gathering in the park, where the girls can enjoy a picnic or play games. Troop leaders can take this opportunity to acknowledge each girl's contributions and reflect on the impact they have made. By celebrating their success, Girl Scouts will feel motivated and inspired to continue participating in community service projects in the future.

Organizing a cooking or baking competition among troop members

Participating in a cooking or baking competition can be an exciting and educational experience for Girl Scouts. It is a great way to encourage creativity, teamwork, and develop culinary skills. If you are a troop leader or a Girl Scout looking for a fun activity for your group, organizing a cooking or baking competition could be the perfect option.

Before diving into the actual event preparations, it is important to gather the necessary supplies and set some ground rules. Firstly, make sure you have access to a fully equipped kitchen or baking area. If the facilities at your regular meeting location are limited, consider renting a community kitchen or partnering with a local restaurant or bakery.

Next, you will need to establish the guidelines for the competition. Decide if you want to have specific cooking or baking themes, such as cupcakes, cookies, or international cuisines, or if you prefer to give the participants more freedom to choose their own dishes. It's also important to set clear rules for hygiene, time limits, and judging criteria. Make sure all participants are aware of these guidelines well in advance, so they have time to plan and prepare.

To ensure a successful competition, it is crucial to have a capable judging panel. Invite local chefs, bakers, or food enthusiasts to serve as judges for the event. This not only adds credibility to the competition but also provides an opportunity for the Girl Scouts to learn from professionals in the industry. Additionally, consider having an audience or fellow troop members present to support and cheer on the competitors.

Once everything is prepared and set, it's time to let the fun begin! Divide the troop into smaller groups or pairs and assign them a cooking or baking station. Provide each team with the necessary ingredients and equipment. Encourage creativity by allowing them to add their own unique twists to the recipes.

During the competition, it is important to emphasize the importance of teamwork, cooperation, and good sportsmanship. Encourage the Girl Scouts to work together, communicate effectively, and help each other out. This not only enhances the overall experience but also strengthens their interpersonal skills.

After the cooking or baking time is up, have the judges sample and evaluate each dish based on taste, presentation, creativity, and teamwork. Consider awarding prizes for various categories such as best taste, most creative dish, or best teamwork. It is also a good idea to provide feedback to each team, highlighting their strengths and areas for improvement.

To wrap up the event, celebrate the participants' hard work and congratulate them on their efforts. Organize a small ceremony, where each team can present their dish and receive recognition for their achievements. Give each participant a certificate of participation or a small token of appreciation.

Planning a visit to a local museum or art gallery for an educational and fun outing

Looking for a fun and educational activity for your Girl Scouts troop? Why not plan a visit to a local museum or art gallery? This outing will not only broaden their knowledge and appreciation of art and history but also provide an exciting opportunity for them to bond as a group.

Here are some tips to help you plan a successful and enjoyable trip to a museum or art gallery:

• Research and choose the right museum or gallery: Start by researching and selecting a local museum or art gallery that aligns with the interests and age group of your Girl Scouts. Consider visiting a museum with interactive exhibits or a gallery that features art relevant to their current projects or studies.
• Contact the museum or gallery: Reach out to the museum or gallery staff to inquire about group rates, guided tours, and any special activities or workshops available for scout troops. Some museums also offer scout-specific programs and badges that can enhance the learning experience for the girls.
• Plan the logistics: Determine the date and time for your visit, taking into consideration the museum's operating hours and any special exhibitions or events. Arrange for transportation, making sure you have enough adult chaperones to supervise the girls during the trip.
• Prepare the girls: Before the outing, educate the girls about the museum or gallery you will be visiting. Share some background information about the exhibits, artists, or historical periods they will encounter. Encourage them to research and come prepared with questions or topics they would like to explore further.
• Create a scavenger hunt or guide: To make the visit more engaging, consider creating a scavenger hunt or guide for the girls to follow as they explore the museum or gallery. Include specific artworks, artifacts, or information they should look for and discuss as a group. This will help them stay focused and actively participate in the experience.
• Discuss museum etiquette: Before entering the museum or gallery, remind the girls about the importance of respecting the artworks, staying quiet, and following any rules and regulations provided by the institution. Encourage them to ask questions and engage with the exhibits, but also remind them to be mindful of other visitors.
• Reflect and debrief: After the visit, set aside some time for the girls to discuss their favorite artworks or exhibits. Encourage them to share their thoughts, emotions, and new knowledge they gained during the visit. You can also organize a group activity, such as drawing or writing, to help them express their impressions.

By planning a visit to a local museum or art gallery, you will provide your Girl Scouts with a unique and enriching experience. They will have the opportunity to learn, explore, and appreciate the beauty and creativity of art and history while creating memories with their fellow troop members. So why wait? Start planning your museum or gallery outing today!

Frequently asked questions