Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan
Trip and Camp
Readiness
Welcome
Welcome to Trip and Camp Readiness. This module will prepare
you for simple overnight trips and camping events.
The module will take about 90 minutes to complete. If you don’t
have time to finish it in one sitting, that’s okay. Just make note
of the last page you accessed (page numbers are on the
bottom right of each slide) and continue from there.
To move to the next slide, click the mouse, press “enter” or the
space bar on your keyboard, or right click on the mouse and
press “next” when the menu appears;
To move to the previous slide, press backspace or right click on
the mouse and press “previous” when the menu appears.
2
Welcome (cont’d)
During this home study course, you will need access
to the following documents:
• Safety Activity Checkpoints: Group Camping (pp 109-112) and Outdoor
Cooking (pp 119-123).
http://www.gssemhub.org/sites/default/files/document/all_safety_activity_che
ckpoints_2011.pdf
• Volunteer Essentials, Part 2: The Program (Traveling with Girls section).
http://www.gssemhub.org/sites/default/files/document/The%20Girl%20Scout
%20Leadership%20Experience%20sept%201%202013.pdf
• Volunteer Essentials, Part 3: Safety.
http://www.gssemhub.org/sites/default/files/document/Safety%20Guidelines%20sept%201%202
013.pdf
Please be patient when downloading files; it may take a few minutes.
3
Welcome
You will be asked to complete a learning log as
you move through this module. Please refer
back to your “course confirmation email” for
the link to access your Learning Log. Either
save it on your computer or print it and complete
it by hand.
Learning log questions will be identified with this
graphic:
4
Welcome
Complete the learning log and forward it to:
GSSEM
Attn: Adult Learning
3011 West Grand Blvd
500 Fisher Bldg
Detroit, MI 48202
or you can fax to 313-870-2600
or email to agunderson@gssem.org
To receive credit for this course, you must
submit your completed Learning Log.
5
Course Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
• Determine the readiness of individual girls and the group.
• Use the components of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience to plan
and execute a one day trip, overnight experience or extended
experience.
• Direct the girls in the planning of an overnight experience following
the guidelines in Safety Activity Checkpoints and Volunteer
Essentials, Part III: Safety.
• Explain the development and use of kaper charts.
• Teach girls safe kitchen skills including healthy meal planning, food
handling, the use of knives and other kitchen tools and sanitary
clean-up.
• Instruct the girls on going “green”.
• Describe how to handle unique situations such as encountering
animals and poisonous plants, a separated girl, or homesickness.
6
Introduction
Trips are important in Girl Scouting. They give the girls an
opportunity to take the skills they’re learning into the real world.
In other words, trips and camping are the Girl Scout experience
moved to a new environment, out of the home, school or other
meeting place.
Within the GSSEM jurisdiction, there is a wide variety of local trips
worth checking out. Our Council and Communities also provide
program opportunities for all grade levels. You can find information
on these activities on the Calendar of Events on our website
(www.gssem.org).
7
Introduction
Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore the travel
opportunities outside of GSSEM’s jurisdiction appropriate
for their troop/group grade level.
For older girls planning a trip, traveling throughout the US
or even visiting other countries would be a great Girl Scout
experience!
See Volunteer Essentials, Part 2: The
Program (Traveling with Girls section)
information & guidelines for taking trips
with girls.
for
8
Introduction
While camping isn’t a required activity in Girl Scouting, it’s a great
opportunity for girls to gain confidence, develop character, learn
new skills, and explore new ways to make the world a better place.
The various types of camping experiences available for girls can be
found at: http://www.gssem.org/content/camp
How else might a trip be of value to girls?
(Record the answer on your learning log.)
9
Your Responsibilities after
Completing this Course
Title Goes
Here
 Prepare girls to successfully and safely experience
a trip or camping event
 Ensure troop/groups are emotionally ready to travel
or go camping
 Ensure event is the right length, and is appropriate
for the grade level of the girls, to be of benefit
10
Your Responsibilities after
Completing this Course
 Ensure troop/group has had to time to work on
planning and that plans comply with Volunteer
Essentials and Safety Activity Checkpoints
 Ensure that some of the activities selected by the
girls enable them to develop values associated with
their impact on the environment
 Ensure that trips and camping events are inclusive –
that all girls have the same opportunity to participate
in all the activities
11
Girl Scout Leadership Experience
(GSLE)
The Girl Scout
Leadership
Experience is the
driving force
- THE ENGINE –
for everything we
do.
The focus of the program (creating girls of courage, confidence and
character who make the world a better place) is fueled by 15 short-term
and intermediate outcomes. It is ignited by three keys – Discover,
Connect and Take Action – and it runs on three processes – Girl-led,
12
Cooperative Learning and Learn by Doing.
It’s What We Do!
It’s simple.
Everything we do with the girls
starts with the Girl Scout Leadership
Experience.
Every activity should:
•involve at least one of the three keys (discover,
connect, take action) - and
•incorporate the processes (girl-led, learning by
doing, cooperative learning).
On the following pages, you will explore how
camping experiences can incorporate the Girl
Scout Leadership Experience.
13
Girl Scout Leadership Experience
on Trips (1)
Introduction
GIRLS DISCOVER
(cont’d)
What
is something
a girl could Discover
for herself while
Troops/Groups
are
also encouraged
to explore
participating
in anof
overnight
trip?
the travel opportunities
outside
GSSEM’s
jurisdiction appropriate for their
Plan
and Measure Discover
troop/group grade
level.
Fill in at least 3 rows on the Discover Outcomes chart.
For older girls planning a trip, traveling
throughout the US or even visiting other
Five Discover Outcomes Camp –related Activity
Process
countries would be a great Girl Scout
Girls develop a strong sense of self
experience!
Girls develop positive values
Girls gain practical life skills
Girls seek challenges in the world
Girls develop critical thinking
14 8
Girl Scout Leadership Experience
on Trips (2)
Introduction
GIRLS CONNECT
(cont’d)
Howalso
can girls
Connect during
an overnight trip?
Troops/Groups are
encouraged
to explore
the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s
jurisdiction appropriate
their
Plan andfor
Measure
Connect
troop/group grade level.
Fill in at least 3 rows on the Connect Outcomes chart.
For older girls planning a trip, traveling
throughout the US or even visiting other
countries would be a great Girl Scout
experience!
14
8
Girl Scout Leadership Experience
on Trips (3)
Introduction
GIRLS TAKE ACTION
(cont’d)
How can girls Take Action on an overnight trip?
Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore
the travel opportunities
of Take
GSSEM’s
Plan andoutside
Measure
Action
jurisdictionFillappropriate
for
their
in at least 3 rows
on the
Take Action Outcomes chart.
troop/group grade level.
For older girls planning a trip, traveling
throughout the US or even visiting other
countries would be a great Girl Scout
experience!
168
Don’t forget the
Introduction
processes!
(cont’d)
Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore
the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s
jurisdiction appropriate for their
troop/group grade level.
Girl-led
For older girls planning a trip, traveling
throughout the US or even visiting other
countries would be a great Girl Scout
experience!
Cooperative learning
Learning by doing
178
The girls benefit
Introduction
from doing the
work
(cont’d) themselves.
Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore
the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s
jurisdiction appropriate for their
troop/group grade level.
For older girls planning
traveling
So, alettrip,
them (girl-led)
throughout the US
ortogether
even visiting
other
work
(cooperative
learning)
countries would be a great Girl Scout
to learn (learn by doing)
experience!
about how to take care of themselves in the
out-of-doors. They may make some mistakes
along the way --- but the lessons will be valuable
and provide the best benefit to the girls!
18 8
An important point
to remember…
Anything you can do in a troop/group
meeting can, with advanced
planning, be done on a trip or at
camp in a one-day, an overnight,
or an extended trip
experience.
19
Trip Readiness
Progression –
Travel Progression Checklist
If your group is thinking about travel, consider first whether the
girls are mature enough to handle the trip. Determine a
group’s readiness for travel by assessing the girls’:







Ability to be away from their parents and their homes
Ability to adapt to unfamiliar surroundings and situations
Ability to make decisions well and easily
Previous cross-cultural experiences
Ability to get along with each other and handle challenges
Ability to work well as a team
Skills, interests, and language skills (where applicable)
List one item from the checklist above that really stands out to you.
20
Transitioning from Adult-Led to Girl-Led
Progression
Daisy
Brownie
Junior
Cadette
Senior
Ambassador
It begins with the first experience away from the troop meeting place
and progresses to more advanced camping and trips.
The responsible adult must take the training appropriate for the
planned experience.
Allow enough time to teach new skills to the girls prior to the activity.
Outdoor education emphasizes teaching the girls the skills they
need to have a positive outdoor experience.
21
(Progression) It starts slowly…
Explore Out
Move Out
Meet Out
Look Out
Wonder what the world is like
at our doorstep
Look outdoors
See trees, birds, buildings
Plan a walk around the block
Touch a tall tree
Locate a food chain
Listen outdoors
Hear nature sounds and city
sounds
Watch the sky
Feel outdoors
Enjoy games and songs
outdoors
Trace neighborhood smells
Learn ways to protect the
environment
Walk/hike with a purpose
Rock hike
Gadget hike
Metric hike
Penny hike
Color hike
Shape hike
Compass hike
Day pack
Examine a micro-habitat
Visit nature centers
Plant a tree
Look for tracks, trails, traces of
other living things
Plant a garden
Find pollution problems
22
(Progression)
…and then it soars!
Pack Out
Camp Out
Plan meals, menus, shopping
lists
Prepare menus
Prepare packing lists
• For troops
• For individuals
Purchase and provide storage
of food
Prepare shopping lists
Plan activities at camp
Plan routes, transportation,
travel arrangements
Learn/try cooking
No-cook meal
Nosebag lunch
One-pot meal
Skillet
Stick cooking
Foil cooking
Charcoal
Box oven
Propane stove
Budget for troop activities and
meals
Use maps, charts, timetables,
compasses
Know safety and first aid
rules
Budget trip costs
Prepare shopping lists
Keep financial records
Shop for menu items
Select and transport minimum
personal and group equipment
Cook Out
Sleep Out
Prepare for overnight
List and prepare
equipment
Bedroll
Sit-upon
Toiletries
Plan menus (NO
cooking)
Learn knot tying
Spend night away from
home
Learn about Leave No
Trace
Learn knife safety
Establish campsite
• Sleeping areas
• Latrines
• Kitchen areas
Learn fire building
Pitch and strike a tend
Learn safety and first aid
rules
Use sound environmental
policies
23
Progression
at GSSEM Camps
Council
Sponsored
Summer Camp
Facility Rental
Community
Sponsored
Weekend Camp
Council
Sponsored
Weekend Camp
Activities are planned
and delivered by
GSSEM camp staff.
Meals provided in
dining halls.
Activities are planned
by a Community
(older girls & adults).
At Camp Hawthorn
Hollow & Innisfree,
meals are provided in
dining halls. At
Playfair community
volunteers & girls
cook their meals.
Camp activities are
planned and delivered
by the troop/group.
The troop/group
cooks all their own
meals.
This is an outdoor
experience for an
individual girl. A girl
chooses activities
planned and delivered
by GSSEM camp staff
and eats meals in the
dining hall.
24
Trip & Camp Readiness
Introduction
Ask yourself and the girls:
(cont’d)
• Are the girls ready for trip camping?
Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore
• Are you
ready?
the travel
opportunities
outside of GSSEM’s
jurisdiction
appropriate
their
• Have you
given yourselffor
enough
time to prepare/plan?
troop/group grade level.
• Do you have a checklist?
For older
girls
planning
a trip, traveling
• What
is your
mode of transportation?
Have you practiced yet?
throughout the US or even visiting other
• Arewould
you including
your parents/guardians
countries
be a great
Girl Scout in the planning?
experience!
What advance preparation needs to be done to
prepare the girls for the activity planned? How long
will that take?
258
Planning the Experience:
Girl-led
Introduction
(cont’d)
Planning involves the entire troop/group.
Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore
the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s
jurisdiction appropriate for their
troop/group grade level.
Girls make the decisions – where to go, what to
For olderdo,
girls
planning
a trip,
what
to eat, who
willtraveling
accompany them,
throughout the US or even visiting other
when they will go, what type of experience it
countries would be a great Girl Scout
will be, what they will get out of it.
experience!
268
Speaking of Girl-Led,
How about a Kaper Chart?
KAPER CHART
Girls work cooperatively
to complete tasks.
Adults supervise and
answer questions.
Food and table
prep
Cook
Rotate tasks throughout
the trip through use of a
Kaper chart.
Clean up
Sat. Breakfast
Sat. Lunch
Busy Bees
Crazy
Caterpillars
Artful Ants
Busy Bees
Crazy
Caterpillars
Artful Ants
Modify it as necessary for the group’s size and activities.
(See sample types of Kapers on the next slide.)
27
Sample Kapers for the Camp,
Trip or Travel Setting
•
Hostesses
– Clear, wash, and set table for meals
– Place dunk bags randomly at the table
– Add napkins, beverages, salt and pepper, and other
condiments to the table
•
Cooks
– Review menu and recipes
– Gather/prepare food and set it up for easy access and cooking
– Cook food according to recipe (girls should share responsibilities
equally)
•
Dishwashers
– Prepare dish line
– Call groups to dish line
– Wash dishes and hand them to owner
28
Planning the Experience Keeping It Safe
Introduction
(cont’d)
Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore
Review Volunteer Essentials, Part 3: Safety for the trip as well as
the travel
opportunities
outside
of GSSEM’s
the activities
planned. You
are responsible
for keeping the girls
jurisdiction
safe. appropriate for their
troop/group grade level.
Certain trips/activities may require personnel with documented
For older
girls planning
a trip,
traveling
certifications
to be present.
When planning
trips/activities you
throughout
US and
or follow
even the
visiting
mustthe
review
guidelinesother
as stated in the Safety
countries
would
be a great
Girl
Activity
Checkpoints.
Make
sure Scout
he/she is up to-date on all
experience!
trainings prior to departure date and is emotionally ready to
handle the types of emergencies that could occur at the
planned event.
List one item from Volunteer Essentials,
Part 3: Safety or the Safety Activity
Checkpoints that was new information to you.
298
First Aid Kit
Each group should carry a first aid kit adapted to the kinds of
activities that will take place during the trip. The contents of the kit will vary
according to its intended use and the size of the group.
Adhesive tape & bandages
Alcohol wipes
Band-Aids, assorted
Bottle of distilled water
Drinking cups
First aid book
Flashlight
Instant chemical ice pack
Disposable gloves
List of emergency phone numbers
Needle
Oral thermometer
Personal care products (sanitary napkins/tampons)
Plastic bags
Single-use pocket face mask or face shield
Gauze pads & Roller gauze bandages
Safety pins
Scissors
Anti-bacterial soap
Splints
Triangular bandages
Tweezers
How many girls and adults are going? Do you have enough supplies?
Share safety knowledge freely with the girls.
Even the youngest Girl Scout can be taught basic first aid.
What items should be in your first aid kit?
How will you involve the girls?
What first aid skills are important for your girls to learn?
30
Involve the girls in the use of
Safety Activity Checkpoints
Introduction
(cont’d)
Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore
the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s
jurisdiction appropriate for their
troop/group
grade
Involve the
girls inlevel.
the use of Safety Activity Checkpoints.
(Print only the pages needed for the particular activities planned.)
For older girls planning a trip, traveling
When working
with
Brownies,other
read the information to the
throughout
the US
orDaisies
even and
visiting
girls.
countries
would be a great Girl Scout
experience!
Juniors will look at it with you. For example, they might say, “Can we
go….” and your response is, “Let’s check the Safety Activity
Checkpoints.”
Cadettes, Seniors, & Ambassadors should be able to review the
Safety Activity Checkpoints with their advisors.
318
Safety Planning with Girls
Introduction
(cont’d)
Make sureare
they
know
the obvious
– don’t assume:
Troops/Groups
also
encouraged
to explore
the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s
jurisdiction
their
Who isappropriate
the first aider forfor
this trip?
troop/group
level.
Is onegrade
required
for the trip?
What
doesplanning
the first aider
for us?traveling
For older
girls
a do
trip,
What
to look
an emergency
throughout
the
US for
or ineven
visiting other
countries
would
be a help
great
Scout
How
to summon
in anGirl
emergency
experience!
How to treat basic injuries until help is available
Where the first aid kit is kept, during transit and at destination.
328
Medications & Safety
Introduction
(cont’d)
Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore
the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s
jurisdiction
appropriate
for their
• Refer to
Volunteer Essentials,
Part 3: Safety
troop/group grade level.
• ALL medications should be in original containers and
For older
girls planning
a be
trip,
prescribed
doses should
given traveling
by a responsible adult
(usually
on written
permission of a parent
throughout
the the
USfirst
or aider)
evenbased
visiting
other
or would
guardianbe a great Girl Scout
countries
experience!
• Inhalers and other self-administered medications can remain
with the girls with the leader’s advance knowledge
•
This applies to ingested or topical medications – do not give
prescription or over-the-counter remedies to girls without
parent permission.
338
General Safety Rules –
Introduction
ALL Trips!
(cont’d)
Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore
the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s
jurisdiction
appropriate
for their
The buddy
system (girls always
have “a buddy” to pair up with)
troop/group
grade
level.
should
be in effect
at ALL times.
For older girls planning a trip, traveling
Even better (in case of emergency), travel in groups of three or
throughout the US or even visiting other
four.
countries would be a great Girl Scout
experience!
All the girls should know your count-off system and, if appropriate,
remember their numbers.
Remind them to watch out for each other and alert an adult if there
is a concern!
348
Additional Notes for You
and Your First Aider
Introduction
(cont’d)
Be aware of
girl also
health encouraged
issues
Troops/Groups
are
to explore
needs (physical,
dietary,of
emotional)
the travelSpecial
opportunities
outside
GSSEM’s
Allergies
jurisdiction
appropriate for their
• Triggers
troop/group grade
level.
• Reactions
• Treatment
For older girls
planning a trip, traveling
throughout the US or even visiting other
Be aware
of the
levelGirl
of the Scout
girls
countries
would
be energy
a great
and balance the activities:
experience!
Too much stimulation leads to fatigue - leads to injury
Too little stimulation leads to boredom - leads to injury
358
Travel by
Introduction
Automobile
(cont’d)
Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore
Most likely,
your trip will involve
travel of
by automobile.
the travel
opportunities
outside
GSSEM’s
jurisdiction appropriate for their
troop/group
grade level.
Review Volunteer
Essentials, Part 3: Safety and the ICE Toolkit
Pay close attention to guidelines and policies related to
For older
girls planning
a Scout
trip,Activity
traveling
transporting
girls and Girl
Insurance.
throughout the US or even visiting other
countries would be a great Girl Scout
experience!
What can you, as a leader, do to help create a safe
travel space for the girls?
368
Safety
Basics
Introduction
(cont’d)
Troops/Groups are also encouraged
to explore
For example:
the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s
jurisdiction appropriate for their
troop/group grade level. How to wash
hands
For older girls planning atheir
trip,
traveling
throughout the US or even visiting other
OR
countries would be a great Girl Scout
experience!
Stop, drop and roll (fire)
Check out Grade Level materials for
opportunities to teach safety in troop
meetings & on trips!
378
More Safety Basics
Introduction
(cont’d)
Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore
the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s
jurisdiction appropriate for their
troop/group grade
Stay bylevel.
a tree – don’t wander looking for group
(The troop/group will be looking for the girl!)
For older girls planning a trip, traveling
throughout the US or even visiting other
a whistle
– make
loud noises
countries would Yell
be –ause
great
Girl
Scout
experience!(Animals are more afraid of us than we are of them.)
If Lost - Hug a tree
If you give each girl a garbage bag at the beginning of the
hike it can be used protect the girl from the elements .
388
Safety in the City or Country!
Hiking/Walking
Dress for the weather and environment
Use etiquette and cross-walks
Know the requirements from the Safety Activity Checkpoints
Walk slowly and carefully through high grass and wooded trails
Avoid beehives above and in the ground
39
Safety in the City or Country!
Stray animals
Avoid if possible
If unavoidable, stay perfectly still
Make no sudden movements
“Oh, look at that cute kitty!”
40
Plants, animals and insects
• Poisonous plants and insects
– Poison ivy
• Learn to recognize it
• “Leaves of three, let it be”
• Become familiar with the native
species
– Visit http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/ and click on the
wildlife and habitat selection on the left side of the
screen to see pictures of species found in Michigan
41
A Word about Ticks
Ticks are known to transmit infection from animals to
people and person to person, such as Lyme
Disease. They burrow under the skin and are often
difficult to see unless you’re looking for the tell-tale
signs.
Instruct the girls on how to check for ticks and have
them inspect themselves when they return from a
hike in the woods.
As protection against ticks,
1. Stay on paths when hiking
2. Wear long sleeves that are close
to the wrist
3. Tuck pant/jean legs into socks
42
Planning the Experience – Safety
Emergency Preparedness during Fires,
Storms and Tornadoes
Ensure girls are aware of “stop, drop and roll.”
Hold fire drills during meetings and on arrival at site.
Pack a battery-powered radio that’s tuned to a local station
that broadcasts weather and extra batteries.
Pack a battery-powered flashlight, extra batteries and an extra bulb.
Locate emergency exits and sheltered areas for safety from fire, storm and
tornadoes.
If you’re inside when a storm or tornado occur, stay away from windows.
If outside, stay away from trees and metal objects.
Don’t try to out-run a tornado. Move out of its path and seek low ground
(a ditch).
43
Cooking: Start with the Basics
Good nutrition and drinking plenty of fluids are essential to
any outdoor activity. When anyone is working hard and
becomes very tired, it is easy to forget to replenish fluid or
eat properly. A well-nourished person is more likely to healthy,
energetic, aware, and strong. A day hike, overnight, or extended
trip will be enhanced if food selection and preparation are done
thoughtfully and carefully. Sufficient food for each person is critical.
Everyone going on the trip should take an active role in planning the menu.
Considerations include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The level of physical activity planned and the sizes of appetites
The kind of weather expected.
Sources of food – products purchased at a grocery store or freeze-dried products
Food preferences – likes and dislikes.
Method and space for transporting food.
Amount of space available for refrigeration
Nutritionally balanced menus
Amount of money to be spend on food
Facility for food preparation
44
Cooking
(Indoors or Outdoors)
Refer to the Outdoor Cooking Safety Activity Checkpoints for safe
food preparation, storage and clean-up.
Name 1-2 new things you learned while reviewing this
Safety Activity Checkpoint.
Plan with the girls, not for the girls. They’re more likely to eat what
they select and they’ll probably eat more than they think they will.
This is an opportunity for them to learn about nutrition and good
eating habits.
Take them shopping. They enjoy it and it’s a great
opportunity for them to learn about nutrition,
finances and decision-making.
45
A Word about Food Allergies
A food allergy can develop at any time. The first exposure to
a food (and it’s not always obvious when that occurs)
causes the body to develop antibodies. Then the second
or subsequent exposure triggers an attack.
It’s very important that, if anyone with the troop has food
allergies, the first aider and leaders are aware of what the
allergy is and what the response is so the appropriate
action can be taken immediately.
46
Cooking: Plan Ahead
Introduction
(cont’d)
REMEMBER: KIS (Keep It Simple)
Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore
First stage of progression in cooking:
the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s
jurisdiction appropriate for their
No-cook cooking
troop/group grade level.
Sandwiches
Trail mix
For older girls planning a trip, traveling
Ants on a log (celery, cream cheese or peanut butter, raisins)
throughout the US or even visiting other
countries would be a great Girl Scout
One pot cooking
experience!
Girl Scout soup/stew (each girl contributes a can of similar
based soup or a stew item)
Tacos
Spaghetti sauce
478
Teaching Girls about
Introduction
Knife Safety
(cont’d)
Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore
the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s
Reminder: appropriate
a dull cutting edge
more harm than a sharp one
jurisdiction
forcauses
their
because
you put
more force behind it. Don’t try to protect the
troop/group
grade
level.
girls by making sure you give them dull knives.
For older girls planning a trip, traveling
Demonstrate good knife usage yourself at all times. You will set a
throughout
US or
visiting
otherautomatic.
goodthe
example
andeven
your actions
will become
countries would be a great Girl Scout
experience!
Progress the girls; they’re never too young to learn! The first knife
they use doesn’t have to be a machete; a vegetable peeler will
do.
Teach knife use in a safety circle (Each girl should have enough
space around her to extend the knife in any direction and not
come in contact with another girl)
488
Teaching Girls about
Knife Safety
Introduction
(cont’d)
Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore
Keep your
thumb off back of
knife to avoid
injury; hold the handle
the travel
opportunities
outside
of GSSEM’s
jurisdiction
forthetheir
Always cutappropriate
or peel away from
body
troop/group grade level.
Use cutting boards. The thumb has better uses than stopping a
knife
when planning
you’re slicing
cucumber.
For older
girls
a atrip,
traveling
throughout
the USa knife,
or even
visiting
other
When passing
the recipient
should
grasp the handle and
saywould
“thank be
you”asogreat
the passer
canScout
release it
countries
Girl
experience!
Note: More about knife safety will be covered in the Outdoor 1
course.
How will you help your girls “progress” in the safe
use of knives for food preparation/cooking?
498
Cooking Once
You’re There
Reminder – Allow plenty of time for meal preparation. It may take
one person five minutes to make a sandwich. When you have
five or more girls making sandwiches, the time expands
exponentially.
It’s smarter to allow too much time for meal preparation and have a
back-up activity than to allow too little time and deal with hunger.
You may save time by having the girls do a bit of preparation before
the outing (veggie sticks, pre-cook ground hamburger, etc).
Remember to store food safely. Refrigerate frozen, cooked or
fresh meats.
Girls should always eat freshly prepared meals that they made
themselves.
50
Food for Thought
Introduction
Reflect on the previous information about menu
(cont’d)
planning, cooking and knife safety ….
Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore
the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s
jurisdiction appropriate for their
troop/group grade level.
What are 3 things to take into
consideration
when planning a
For older girls planning
a trip, traveling
with girls?
throughout the US or even menu
visiting
other
countries would be a great Girl Scout
experience!
What are 2 tips for ensuring that meal
preparation is a safe, positive experience
for girls?
518
Deciding What to Do Once You’re There
Because the activity is girl-led, the girls choose the activities for
the trip or camping event as part of the planning process.
Potential resources available for them to use include, but aren’t limited to:
– Safety Activity Checkpoints
– Journey Books
– Grade-level awards (Badges and/or Journey Awards, Daisy Petals, etc)
– Camp programs (staff-led)
– Service projects
– Nature identification and scavenger hunts (look, don’t pick)
– Crafts
– Story-telling/puppetry
– Organizations like National Wildlife Federation or Leave No
Trace or Michigan Department of Natural Resources
– Websites and books
– Scout’s Own (Reflection ceremony)
52
Going Green
Be aware of your host’s policies and adhere to them.
Reduce - reuse – recycle: Model this and encourage your girls
to bring their own cup wherever possible!
If Mother Nature put it there, it’s there for a reason.
Take only pictures, leave only footprints
Use environmentally and septic-friendly cleaning supplies and
paper products.
53
Common Sense
Introduction
(cont’d)
If you opened it, close it.
Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore
If you turned it on, turn it off.
the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s
Don’t
open ovenfor
doors
or lift saucepan lids
jurisdiction
appropriate
their
troop/groupunless
grade necessary.
level.
If the facility doesn’t recycle, bring recyclables
For older girls
home.planning a trip, traveling
throughout the US or even visiting other
Buy inbe
bulk.
countries would
a great Girl Scout
experience!Don’t run water while brushing your teeth.
Use reusable containers (including personal
dishes and dish-bags).
548
What’s a Dish-bag, You Ask?
A dish bag is an individual net bag for each girl
(And it’s a Girl Scout tradition to use them!) . Options include:
– Orange or onion bag
– Laundry bag
– Two medium-woven dishcloths sewn or woven together on three
sides with a drawstring across the top
Each girl brings her own unbreakable dishes (plate, bowl, hot/cold beverage
container) and silverware (spoon, fork, butter knife). Make sure the
utensils don’t slip between the mesh or out of the seems.
When cleaning up after a meal, use 3 sinks for dishwashing. The first
contains hot, soapy water; the second contains clean water for rinsing;
and the third contains water with a capful of bleach to sanitize.
After dunking in the bleach water in the third sink (one capful of bleach per
gallon of water), the dish-bags can be placed in large bowls and carried to
the drying area to avoid creating puddles on the floor.
55
What to Pack and Dressing
for the Weather
Along with the girls, you may find yourself teaching parents about
dressing for the weather. Make them aware that weather and
activities are the deciding factor in what gets packed. Also, the
girls need protection from the elements, insects and sunburn.
Girls can prepare their packing lists by using the Group Camping
Safety Activity Checkpoints.
The girls can even learn to pack and carry their own clothing!
Practice at troop/group meetings. Girls have fun while learning
if you help make it a game!
Once a packing list has been determined, make sure to share it
with girls and their parents/guardians.
56
Dressing for the Weather
Faced with varying weather conditions in the outdoors,
girls
must be able to select and care for outdoor
clothing and be prepared for sudden
changes in temperature. Dressing
appropriately can ensure well-being in cold or hot weather.
It is important to be familiar with layering, the basic principle
of dressing for the outdoors. Layering involves wearing
layers of garments rather than one or two heavy ones. Each
layer must provide warmth and ventilation without hindering
mobility. Layering helps the body regulate
temperature in warm or cold weather and can
help prevent hypothermia or heat exhaustion.
57
Dress for the Weather
Introduction
Activities
(cont’d)
Foot Warmth:
demonstrate
the importance
of warm footwear,
Troops/Groups
are To
also
encouraged
to explore
obtainopportunities
several large jars of
equal size
shape and fill each with
the travel
outside
ofand
GSSEM’s
very hot tap water.
each jar into a different kind of
jurisdiction appropriate
forInsert
their
sock (nylon
stocking, cotton sock, wool sock, etc). Set
troop/group grade
level.
the jars outdoors with a thermometer in each. Record
water
temperature
in the jars
every five minutes. Which
For older girls
planning
a trip,
traveling
cools
Whatother
kind of sock would keep
throughout thejarUS
or more
evenquickly?
visiting
feet would
warmer?be a great Girl Scout
countries
experience!
Outdoor Fashions: Girls can have fun learning about
appropriate clothing by dressing up in items they
choose from a pile of clothes for particular
circumstances. Make a skit, fashion show,
relay race out of it after girls learn the basics.
588
What to Bring












–
Personal
Clothing based on weather and planned activities
Comfortable shoes (enclosed – no sandals) or boots plus extra
Pajamas -- Slippers – Extra day’s clothes and underwear
Rain gear -- poncho and boots
Medication (Labeled, and turned in to adult in charge)
Toothbrush/toothpaste – Hairbrush/comb – Soap – Washcloth –
Towel – Other toiletries
Dirty laundry bag
Insect Repellant and/or Sunscreen (non-aerosol)
Blanket or pad to sleep on (if needed) - Sleeping bag (if
needed) - Extra sheets/blanket - Pillow
Flashlight with Fresh/Extra batteries - Sit upon
Dishes and dishbag
Optional - Handbook or Journey Book – Cards - Quiet games Stuffed animal -Inexpensive camera
59
What to Bring –
Troop/Group
Whether your troop/group is camping overnight or staying in a hotel,
you will find ideas on what to pack in:
Group Camping Safety Activity Checkpoints (Camping Gear)
Outdoor Cooking Safety Activity Checkpoints (Outdoor Cooking
Gear)
Make sure to pack for the type of trip you are taking!
A troop/group equipment list will have some basic categories:
Shelter
Cooking Supplies
Washing Supplies
Group Tools/Supplies
What are some things that should go on your
group/troop equipment list?
How can you involve girls in creating this list?
60
What to Bring –
Troop/Group Ideas
 Troop roster
 Kaper chart/activity schedule
 Menu and recipes
 First aid kit – First aid book - Handbooks - Song books
 Safety Activity Checkpoints (sections specific to activities)
 Alarm clock – Battery-Powered Radio – Extra batteries
 Sponges and towels – Dish soap – Bleach - Toilet paper
 Craft Supplies
 Plan “B” Activities to fill programming gaps
 Napkins - Plastic garbage bags – Can opener – Disinfectant Pots, pans and utensils – Measuring cups and spoons – Bowls
and serving dishes – Colander – Matches – Coffee pot/tea kettle –
Cutting Board – Paring knives/vegetable peelers – Pot holders
61
The Most Contagious
Introduction
Dis-ease
(cont’d)
It starts slowly, probably when it’s dark and
Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore
the travel opportunities outside of GSSEM’s
quiet.
First,
there’s
a
sniff,
then
a
sniffle,
and
jurisdiction appropriate for their
maybe
even
a sob when a girl realizes she’s
troop/group
grade
level.
in a strange place.
For older girls planning a trip, traveling
throughout the US or even visiting other
BEWARE:
unchecked,
this dis-ease will
countries
would beLeft
a great
Girl Scout
experience!
grow and spread. You must deal with it
immediately.
628
Dealing with Homesickness
Introduction
determine if there are fears that need to be dealt
(cont’d)
Since it spreads so easily, pull the girl aside and
with.
Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore
Talk about
the fun that’s
been had
and the fun ahead
the travel
opportunities
outside
of GSSEM’s
(especially since she helped plan the event). The
jurisdiction appropriate for their
objective is to help her relax and go back to sleep.
troop/group grade level.
The girls
next toplanning
last resorta istrip,
to calltraveling
family and have one of
For older
thethe
talkUS
with
(thisvisiting
frequently
makes things worse;
throughout
orgirl
even
other
next toGirl
last).Scout
countriesthat’s
wouldwhy
be it’s
a great
experience!
As a last resort, allow the girl to go home. But, don’t
ever, ever make her feel bad about the episode!
638
Check List for Planning
Overnight Trips and Activities
Review (with the girls) and follow guidelines in Volunteer Essentials,
focusing on Part 2: The Program (Traveling with Girls section) and
Part 3: Safety.
Review (with the girls) and follow guidelines in the Safety Activity
Checkpoints
Make sure the trip/activity is appropriate for the grade level, previous
experience and progression
Recruit or make sure certified personnel are present (if needed) for
activity/trip – make sure they have current certifications
Develop (with the girls) and follow a budget
Develop (with the girls) an itinerary to include specific dates,
locations, and times of trip/activity
Obtain permission slips and health forms
64
And now the
Introduction
adventure begins!…
(cont’d)
Troops/Groups are also encouraged to explore
the travel
of GSSEM’s
Stretchopportunities
your own wingsoutside
to help your
girls learn how to fly!
jurisdiction appropriate for their
troop/group grade level.
Have fun!
For older girls planning a trip, traveling
throughout
the US or are
even
visiting and
other
The opportunities
tremendous
the payback to
countries would be a great Girl Scout
you and the girls will last a lifetime.
experience!
Think about it ……
What are some first steps in preparing for our trip?
How can I prepare myself and the girls for our trip?
658