Games for Girl Scouts

Choosing Games

• In addition to ages and abilities, Girl Scout games should be chosen with the physical condition and experience of the girls in mind. Avoid games that could be offensive. Provide a variety of games -- icebreakers, nature, relays, singing, and games that require a large field.

Be Prepared

• Game leaders should prepare before the meeting or event. Some Girl Scout games require extensive equipment, others do not. Either way, the leader should know which games she wants to play in advance. Play the game before you attempt to teach it so you are familiar with its nuances. Come up with a way of dividing teams quickly and efficiently. Know the area in which girls will play, especially if you are outside. Make sure there are no hidden hazards.

Playing

• Tell the girls the name of the game, rules, and any other information before starting. Ask for questions before beginning and listen for "teachable" moments. Make sure everyone gets a turn to play. Minimize waiting time if possible. Allow girls to change the rules one at a time if they think they have a better way of doing things, but don't let the game go on too long. Stop while the girls are still enthusiastic.

Girl Scout Game Examples

• • Active introduction -- The Girl Scouts stand in a circle and introduce themselves one at a time. Each girl says her name and does an activity like jumping jacks or push-ups. Moving to the right, the next girl repeats the first girl's name and action, and adds her own action. The person who started must repeat all of the names and actions, then the game ends.
  • Balloon pop -- Each girl receives a balloon and a 24-inch-long string. Each blows up her balloon. She should then tie one end of the string to the balloon and the other to her ankle. Each girl tries to pop someone else's balloon while defending her own. When a balloon pops, the stomping stops. The girl whose balloon popped tells the group something about herself. A variation of the game is to insert a trivia question in the balloon before the game begins. When a balloon pops, everyone stops and tries to answer the question. Keep playing until the last balloon pops.