Tips and Games for Group Management When you’re leading a group of Girl Scouts, things won’t always go exactly as planned, and that’s okay! Use these simple strategies and games to stay flexible, keep Girl Scouts engaged, and bring the fun when energy shifts or an activity just doesn’t work as planned.
Plan for Focus Having a plan and being prepared for your meeting can really set the tone for your group’s time together. Here are some tips to make sure you’re ready to let your Girl Scouts lead and, most importantly, have fun! 1. Set the tone with your team. Partner with your adult helpers and talk ahead of each meeting about your plan and how you’ll support one another. 2. Create a predictable routine. Start with an opening circle, the Girl Scout Promise and Law, a song, or an experience your group creates. Stick to your structure; consistency builds comfort and confidence. 3. Make it girl-led. Offer choices when possible, invite Girl Scouts to share their ideas during discussions, and ask Girl Scouts to demonstrate instead of always having an adult do it. 4. Get their attention. Use these techniques to get your group’s attention: n U se the Girl Scout quiet sign—every time. Teach the group to respond to it and use it themselves. n Use call-and-response cues: “Clap once if you can hear me!” / (everyone claps once) “Macaroni and cheese!” / “Everybody freeze!” “1, 2, 3, eyes on me!” / “1, 2, eyes on you!” n Magic word: Pick a fun word or phrase, like “Unicorn” or “Cookie dough,” to signal silence. n Dance/stretch breaks: A one-minute freeze dance or stretch can reset the room. 5. Make transitions and tasks fun. Try these techniques to keep things moving: n U se a kaper chart: This tool helps Girl Scouts take ownership of tasks; after all, it’s their meeting! n G amify cleanup: Make it a cleanup race with a timer Do a musical cleanup Count how many items each Girl Scout picks up Sort items to be cleaned up by categories (colors, types, etc.) 6. Get moving, even during planning and discussion. Moving isn’t just for games. It can help Girl Scouts stay engaged during discussions, too! Try these active approaches: n T alking object: Use a special ball or stuffed animal as a “talking piece.” Girl Scouts must be holding the object to speak; this adds focus and a little fun to group discussions. n V ote with your body: Instead of raising hands, have Girl Scouts move to a corner or side of the room to show their vote. Great for quick decisions or icebreakers! n U se activity stations: Set up badge activities as stations around the room. Let Girl Scouts rotate at their own pace. This technique keeps them moving and lets them lead their experience.