Older Troops
The lives of high schoolers are busier than ever. Their days are filled with mid-terms and finals, extracurricular activities like sports and performing arts, college prep, family obligations and part-time jobs. Yet, they still find time for Girl Scouts! There are moments and times when you as the troop leader may wonder and ask yourself, “What is it about our troop that keeps them coming back (and preventing us adults from throwing in the towel)?” It’s often the little tricks that make activities engaging and the troop running smoothly!
Here are some tips troop leaders found helpful and have gathered as their girls have gotten older and bridged throughout their Girl Scout journey. A few of these suggestions are geared towards Girl Scout Cadettes and older, while others could apply to any troop, regardless of age. Perhaps you’ll find one or two that help you and your girls come back year after year.
Find a Meeting Date and Time That Works
Many teenagers today don’t participate in just one sport or activity; they are involved in EVERYTHING. Sports, theater, music lessons, clubs…you name it! When troop meeting times conflict with other school or sport activities, Girl Scouts is often the first thing to go. So, what can you do to find a schedule that works for everyone?
As your troop gets older, have them help plan the troop schedule. Ask them to bring their calendars (most are on their phones anyway) to a planning meeting and have them coordinate which meeting dates work best. Not only is it a great way for them to practice real-life skills, but it keeps the planning Girl Scout-led!
Furthermore, one thing troop leaders struggle with is getting the troop up and running at the start of each school year. Consider having a meeting in the summer where the troop plans the first few dates for the fall. As one troop leader has shared, “Our troop did that for the first time this year and it was so helpful! We scheduled meetings and overnights through October. When school started, it was much easier to plan out the rest of the year because we were already up and running. Funny that it only took eleven years to figure that one out.”
Be Flexible with Your Expectations 
Create a Group Chat
Travel – You Define Adventure
Prizes
Be Patient with Yourself
