The Badge Archive

Important Reminder: Before assembling hospital kits for children, leaders must contact the intended hospital or pediatric care facility to confirm current needs and guidelines. Many hospitals have strict rules about what can be included, how items must be packaged, and whether kits should be assembled off-site. If kits are being delivered directly, leaders must follow all safety protocols. Young scouts should never approach unfamiliar individuals without adult supervision. Stranger safety is essential and must be practiced consistently.

Instruction:

1. Contact a Children’s Hospital or Pediatric Unit
   • Reach out to the child life department or volunteer services.
   • Ask for current activity kit needs, age ranges, and restrictions (e.g., no latex, no glitter, no religious messaging).
   • Request approval for optional items like sample crafts or troop-written notes.
2. Decide on Kit Type as a Troop
   • Choose a project theme based on hospital needs and age group.
   • Options may include:
     • General art supplies for free choice use (e.g., blank journals, colored pencils)
     • A simple pre-planned craft (e.g., decorate-your-own bookmarks, scratch art pages, beading a keychain)
     • A themed activity like coloring books with crayons and extra blank paper
   • Avoid crafts that require glue or tape unless you are able to include an individual glue stick or roll of tape for each kit.
   • Only select a craft that can be completed from a hospital bed or tray table.
   • Review all components for safety: avoid sharp edges, strong scents, or excessive mess.
3. Prepare Instructions for the Kit
   • Write clear, simple instructions for the chosen craft or activity.
   • Use plain language and organize steps visually if possible.
   • Limit instructions to a one-page front (or front-and-back if absolutely necessary).
4. Make a Detailed Supply List
   • List all components needed per kit, based on your chosen project.
   • Double-check quantities and consider packaging requirements outlined by the hospital.
   • If required or helpful (or allowed by the hospital guidelines), create a sample craft for inclusion and include the amount of supplies needed to create them.
5. Gather Supplies
   • Collect new, unopened, and age-appropriate items.
   • Include only what has been approved by the hospital.
6. Assemble Activity Kits
   • Pack each kit in a resealable bag or pouch.
   • Include one set of supplies, a copy of the instruction sheet, and a sample craft if permitted.
   • Do not include personal notes or troop information unless cleared by the hospital.
7. Label and Package Kits
   • Follow hospital instructions for labeling (e.g., age ranges, project names, fragrance-free).
   • Group kits by age or category and prepare boxes or bins for transport.
8. Coordinate Drop-Off or Delivery
   • Confirm drop-off date, location, and point of contact.
   • If scouts are involved in the delivery, ensure adult supervision and follow all hospital safety protocols.
9. Reflect on the Experience
   • After the activity, guide scouts in a discussion about supporting peers facing medical challenges.
   • Ask what they learned, how they felt, and how creativity can offer comfort.

Possible Locations to Contact for Children’s Hospital Kit Use:

• Children’s hospitals (child life or volunteer services departments)
• Pediatric units in general hospitals
• Ronald McDonald Houses or similar family support programs
• Pediatric rehabilitation centers
• Cancer treatment centers for children
• Faith-based hospital outreach programs
• Nonprofits that support hospitalized children (e.g., Project Sunshine, Project Helping)

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For More Fun Ideas and Plans

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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.

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