Creating the kind of environment in which Girl Scouts are unafraid to try new things and to be who they want to be starts with the troop leader. By meeting your troop members where they are, you’ll help them develop the leadership skills they’ll use today and in the future.
As Girl Scouts grow, you’ll experience different joys and challenges with each level. Here are some guidelines for meeting Girl Scout Daisies’ (Grades K-1) needs and abilities.
Energy Levels and Sociability
Daisies have a lot of energy and love to move around or dance. Open your troop meeting with a game that includes movement, or take your activities outside where they can walk, run and play. They are the perfect age for nature walks and scavenger hunts.
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. They may need assistance learning how to hold their hands for the Girl Scout Promise or help holding scissors or markers.
Reading, Writing and Understanding
Daisies are beginning beginning to write, spell and learn about basic number concepts. They don’t always have words to describe what they are thinking or feeling. At their age, drawing is a good activity for meaningful form of expression.
Daisies are visual learners—you can show instead of tell. For example, instead of explaining how to care for animals, visit an animal shelter, farm or zoo to meet animal care providers. A variety of short 15-minute activities will keep them engaged.
Following Directions
Daisies know how to follow simple directions. It’s important to be specific and offer only one direction at a time. Acknowledge when they have followed directions as it will encourage them to listen and follow directions next time.
