It has been proven that girls today (and kids in general) are not spending enough time outdoors. Between technology, school and jam-packed schedules, there is little time left for our girls to just get outside and explore. Studies show that girls who participate in outdoor activities through Girl Scouts on a monthly basis are better challenge seekers and problem solvers, and are more committed to environmental stewardship than girls who participate less frequently (GSRI More Than S’Mores 2014). Now is better than ever for you and your girls to get outside and play!
We know that just getting outside isn’t enough, our girls need to be challenged and guided to get the most out of their experience. Every kid has a go-getter, innovator, risk-taker and leader inside them waiting to be unleashed. Help your girl explore her inner G.I.R.L. through the outdoors, where an endless opportunity for new experiences and adventure waits just outside your door! Not sure what G.I.R.L. you and your girl are? Take the quiz to find out.
Go-getters like to get out there and do.
Did you know? 62% of Girl Scouts compared to just 42% of non-Girl Scouts actively seek challenges and learn from setbacks (GSRI Impact Study 2017).
These high-energy kids will want fast-paced, exciting activites that really challenge their sense of adventure and ability to get things done. Try volunteering outdoors and make it a game. If you are doing a beach or park clean-up challenge her to fill a whole bag with garbage or maybe the person who collects the most trash will get an award. Go-getters will also enjoy team sports like volleyball or soccer, where they can expel some energy while fueling their competitive nature (just be sure to go over sportsmanship with them first). Both options are a great way to spend time outside while fueling her need to succeed.
Some council activities you and your Go-Getter might be interested in attending, just search the items below on the GSSEF Events Listing for upcoming dates and more information:
- NU2U (Council-Guided Camping)
- Sunset Saltwater Fishing Frenzy (Sandoway Discovery Center)
- Thin Mint Sprint (Council Fundraiser)
Innovators like to use their minds and solve problems.
These creative kids will want to use their hands and explore the world around them. Try going on an extended hike or walk at your local park and have your girl pick up interesting treasures along the way. Once you are done with your adventure, help her research the items she collected and figure out how they fit into the local eco-system. You could also have her look for certain objects for a craft project, like flat stones for rock painting or flexible twigs for a wreath. This is a great way for you to get your girl outside while fueling her creativity and thirst for knowledge. Check out how to bring STEM outside the walls.
Some council activities you and your Innovator might be interested in attending, just search the items below on the GSSEF Events Listing for upcoming dates and more information:
- Become a Marine Biologist Night (Sandoway Discovery Center)
- Explore the Shore Beach Workshop (Sandoway Discovery Center)
Risk-takers aren’t afraid to try something new.
These adventurous kids will want to participate in challenging activities that get their blood pumping! Try something exciting like horseback riding, surfing, paddleboarding or kayaking to get her out of her comfort zone. There are a variety of organizations that teach beginner lessons for you and your girl. This is an awesome way to fuel her need for excitement. Check out these top ten high adventure activities for Girl Scouts.
Some Council activities you and your Risk-Taker might be interested in attending, just search the items below on the GSSEF Events Listing for upcoming dates and more information:
- Archery Badge Workshop (Life Sports Fitness)
- Mermaid Ocean Day (Sandoway Discovery Center)
- Sunset Surf and Paddle Out (Sandoway Discovery Center)
Leaders like to take charge and make decisions.
Did you know? 4 in 5 Girl Scouts identify themselves as leaders, compared to just 2 in 5 non-Girl Scouts (GSRI Impact Study 2017).
These strong-minded kids will want a say in what you choose to do outdoors. Give her a broad option like volunteering and then have her choose how she wants to go about it. Maybe she wants to gather her troop and plant a community garden or paint a mural? Have her take the lead on the project while you help with the logistics, and don’t forget to have fun with it! A challenge like this will have her reaching for her natural leadership and problem solving skills while you both enjoy some time outside.
Some council activities you and your Leader might be interested in attending, just search the items below on the GSSEF Events Listing for upcoming dates and more information:
- Journey in a Day: It’s Your World Change It (Council-Led Journey at Camp Nocatee)
- S.C.A.T. (Council program at Camp Welaka)
