One of the greatest challenges in leading a troop is effectively managing the behavior of the girls. This article for troop leaders discusses the typical behaviors of Girl Scout Daisies (grades k-1).
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Watch Watch Daisy Group Dynamics.
Energy Levels and Sociability
Daisies have a ton of energy and love to move around or dance. Take your activities outside where girls can walk, run, and play—they are the perfect age for nature walks and scavenger hunts. Daisies might enjoy marching like a penguin, dancing like a dolphin, or acting out how they might care for animals in the jungle.
Fine Motor Skills
Daisies are great builders and budding artists and are developing their fine motor skills. This means you can encourage them to express their creativity by making things with their hands.
Cognition Levels
Girls at the Daisy age are concrete thinkers and focused on the here and now; this means you can show instead of tell. For example, instead of explaining how animals are cared for, you can plan visits to animal shelters, farms, or zoos and meet care providers.
Numbers
Daisies are only beginning to learn about basic number concepts, time, and money. You’ll want to take opportunities to count out supplies together.
Writing and Spelling
Daisies are just beginning to write and spell—they don’t always have the words for what they’re feeling or thinking. Having girls draw a picture of what they’re trying to communicate can be more meaningful for them.
Following Directions
Daisies know how to follow simple directions and respond well to recognition for doing so. It’s important to be specific and offer only one direction at a time. Acknowledge girls when they have followed directions as it will encourage them to listen and follow directions next time.
For more on letting your Daisy troop grow in their leadership abilities, see our article, Letting Girls Take the Lead.
Summary of Resources
- Letting Girls Take the Lead – An article for troop leaders that outlines how to incorporate girl-led into their troop.
