Girls need to feel a sense of belonging—now more than ever. Having the camaraderie and friendships that come from being in a local group such as Girl Scouts shows your girl that others are dealing with similar experiences and issues. And girls desperately need that right now. While having caring adults in her life is important, they are not replacements for friends her own age.  Girl Scouts offers both virtual and in person opportunities for girls to spend time together. Whether at a troop meeting or an event offered by Girl Scouts of Colonial Coast (GSCCC) such as their STEM Club, girls get to be with other girls.

“Having a space she can depend on, that’s dedicated to her having a social outlet and being a social support to others in her community is so important today,” GSCCC VP of Member Engagement Terri Washington said. “Many parents say making sure their girl is having fun has become a priority.” Washington agrees. Combatting feelings of alienation and anxiety is part of their goal in serving girls and making sure they have programs that address these issues.

GSCCC started a program, called Science of Happiness, to help girls understand and use mindfulness as a tool. The program is based on proven science that shows how you can increase self-happiness. Girls are challenged to become both a scientist and test subject while testing two different methods that can increase their happiness. For older girls, the first step might be writing a journal on what they are grateful for and what makes them happy. For younger girls, they might consider what makes them happy and then portray it in artwork. Whatever they do, the message is the same—stop and smell the roses; take a moment each day to reflect on what makes you happy. Was it your dog? Talking to your friends? Playing outside? There are many additional steps in the four-session series that ends with girls receiving a patch to recognize their achievements.

During challenging times, the Science of Happiness has been just one of many programs offered by Girl Scouts—an organization nationally recognized as a key support for girls. When girls felt the stress of uncertainty that many days brought during the pandemic, they could depend on their friends in Girl Scouts. And they could do things with those friends that helped them build confidence and self-esteem so they could tackle what came next.

Parents of younger girls say the structure and community of Girl Scouts made a difference in their families during tough times as well. When the pandemic first hit, families could count on volunteers to keep their troops going virtually and help make quarantine bearable. The troop leaders even talked to the girls about the reality of the pandemic and other issues in a way they could understand and be a part of the conversation. By discussing—never ignoring—very important current events, Girl Scouts supported girls and their parents. 

Even if your girl doesn’t tell you how much having a social group means to her, or if she acts like it’s not a big deal, know it is important. When you give her the gift of Girl Scouting, you’re giving her a sense of safety and love—something that, in these times, could truly make a meaningful difference in her life and her well-being. Best of all, you can do it together! Families are encouraged to be part of their daughter’s Girl Scout experience. From volunteering to lead a troop to serving on the troop committee or helping with trips or projects, there is something for everyone. Get details now at gsccc.org.

Discover Girl Scouts 

Families are invited to Girl Scout Outdoor Fun Days! Girls may join in activities while parents/caregivers attend an information session where they will get questions answered about joining Girl Scouts!   

Camp Skimino Outdoor Fun
Saturday, March 5
448 Fenton Mill Road
Williamsburg, VA 23188
9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Register today!

Camp Apasus Outdoor Fun
Saturday, March 12
8420 Granby Street
Norfolk, VA 23503
9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Register today!

Camp Outback Outdoor Fun
Saturday, March 19
912 Cedar Road
Chesapeake, VA 23322
9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Register today!

Camp Burke's Mill Pond Outdoor Fun
Saturday, March 26
10004 Burkes Pond Road North
Gloucester, VA 23128
10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Register today!