Starting a troop might feel like jumping into the deep end, but we’ve got your life jacket. Whether you signed up with excitement or got “volunteered” at the parent meeting, you’re about to help girls grow in kindness, confidence, and leadership.
Here’s your no-stress guide to getting started:
Step 1: Register with Your Council
Before anything else, make sure you’ve signed up through your local council. They’ll guide you through background checks, paperwork, and your troop number.
🔗 Not sure who your council is? Use the GSUSA Council Finder.
Step 2: Choose Your Meeting Space
Troops meet in all kinds of places: schools, churches, libraries, backyards, basements. Pick something safe, consistent, and easy for families to get to.
Step 3: Prep Your First Meeting
You don’t need a glitter explosion or a full badge plan. One activity, one snack, one moment of friendship, it’s enough. A welcome circle, a coloring badge, and a game can go a long way as you talk about what they want to do as scouts going forward.
🔗 What do I need to do for my first meeting?
🔗 How do I plan a meeting?
Step 4: Decide on Dues
Some troops collect a small amount ($1–$3 per meeting) to cover supplies and snacks. Others ask for lump sums quarterly or yearly. Choose what works best for your families, space, and needs.
Step 5: Start with Fun & Friendship
Your first few meetings don’t need to follow a strict curriculum. Let scouts get to know each other. Play games. Talk about what they’re excited to do. Their ideas will help shape your year.
🔗 What kind of games to play?
🔗 How do I plan the rest of the year?
What Comes Next?
You’ll hear about Journeys, badges, Investiture ceremonies, and other traditions—but you don’t have to learn it all at once. You’re building a foundation now, and you have time.
🔗 What is a Journey? Is it like a badge?
🔗 Bridging, Investiture and Re-Dedication Ceremonies
🔗 GSUSA Ceremonies
🔗 GSUSA Traditions
Final Thought
You’re not alone. Every troop is different, and every leader started exactly where you are: curious, unsure, and hoping to do some good. Keep it simple, follow the smiles, and know that showing up is already a win.
Need more help? Our GSUSA Leader 101 section has answers to the most common questions from real scout leaders just like you.
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For More Fun Ideas and Plans
for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Scouts
Join the Girl Scout Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Leader Help Facebook Group
(Not an official GSUSA Group)
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
Join the Girl Scout Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Leader Help Facebook Group
(Not an official GSUSA Group)
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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The Badge Archive 
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