The Badge Archive

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to keep things organized, engaging, and fun.

Step 1: Start with Key Annual Events

Before planning badges and activities, begin by blocking off dates for important yearly traditions and required meetings:

• Beginning-of-the-Year Kickoff
• End-of-Year Celebration
• Juliette Gordon Low’s Birthday (Oct 31) 🎂
• World Thinking Day (Feb 22) 🌍
• Girl Scout Week (March)
• Birthday Bash Party (Traditionally around March 12) 🥳
• Winter Holiday Party ❄️
• Other Holiday Celebrations
• Annual Campout or Overnight Events 🏕️

You can look at other GSUSA Traditions and Ceremonies and spark ideas for your own troop.

Step 2: Fill in Badge & Activity Slots

Once you’ve set aside these annual events, use the remaining dates for badge work and scout-chosen activities:

• Review the list of badges and activities that won the troop vote.
• Determine how many meetings each badge or activity will take (VTK plans often suggest two meetings per badge).
• Place badges into open meeting slots, making sure to spread out different types of activities.
• Use badge sticker sheets to visually organize meetings and easily reference badge details.

Step 3: Keep Flexibility for Non-Badge Activities

While official badges are the most common troop meetings, remember that you can pause to do activities scouts are interested in—even if they don’t tie to a badge.

• Consider fun patches — you can create your own requirements or use Patch Programs available from GSUSA councils or outside organizations.
• Include skill-building activities — guest speakers, service projects, or themed meetings can enrich the experience.
• Leave space for spontaneous troop adventures — hiking days, STEM projects, or creative activities add variety!

Step 4: Finalize & Adjust as Needed

Once the plan is built, review the schedule to make sure it fits your troop’s needs. Keep in mind that plans can be adjusted—sometimes new opportunities arise, or scouts may express interest in a different badge mid-year.

By building around traditions, organizing badge selections, and keeping room for flexibility, you’ll ensure your troop has a well-balanced, engaging, and exciting year!

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For More Fun Ideas and Plans

for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Scouts

This is a supportive Facebook community for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Girl Scout leaders. Whether you’re seeking advice, fresh ideas, or meeting plans, you’re in the right place! Let’s inspire each other, share our experiences, and make every troop meeting a memorable adventure.

for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Scouts

This is a supportive community for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Girl Scout leaders. This group offers solutions to keep older scouts engaged in scouting amidst their busy lives. Share strategies, tackle challenges, and exchange ideas for fun, meaningful activities that resonate with teens and build lasting connections.

Find out how you can support The Badge Archive!

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• Go back to the Girl Scout Leader 101 page.
• Return to the Daisy Badge List.
• Return to the Brownie Badge List.
• Return to the Junior Badge List.
• Return to the Cadette Badge List.
• Return to the Senior Badge List.
• Return to the Ambassador Badge List.

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