SWAPS in the Hornets' Nest Store
A SWAPS board is now available in our very own Girl Scouts, Hornets' Nest Council store, where girls can leave and take SWAPS to help carry on this beloved tradition locally!
SWAPS are such a great way for girls to express creativity, connect with others, and learn about different troops and experiences. Having a dedicated board in the store will give girls a chance to share their own SWAPS, see what others have made, and be inspired by new ideas and stories from across our council.
SWAPS
The History & Meaning of Girl Scout SWAPS (Special Whatchamacallits Affectionately Pinned Somewhere)
A Brief History
1960s–70s: Inspired by international Scouting traditions, Girl Scouts in the U.S. began trading small handmade items at events.
1980s–90s: The term "SWAPS" was coined and became widely used. Councils encouraged the tradition during large-scale gatherings.
2000s–Today: SWAPS are an established tradition in Girl Scouting, with countless ideas, kits, and themed projects shared online and through troops.
Why Do We SWAP? SWAPS encourage: Creativity – Each token is unique and handmade. Connection – Girls meet others and start conversations through trading. Memories – SWAPS are souvenirs that tell the story of events and friendships. Cultural Exchange – SWAPS often reflect where a troop is from or something meaningful to them. Eco-consciousness – Many are made with recycled materials, encouraging sustainability.
SWAPS Guidelines:
- Keep them small and lightweight (fit in your hand or on a pin)
- Label them with your name, troop number, and location.
- Use safe materials (no glass, sharp edges, etc.).
- Get creative! Think outside the box with your designs.
- Most Importantly, HAVE FUN!
Bridging Ceremonies
A Girl Scout bridging ceremony is a
special occasion where a girl officially transitions from one Girl
Scout program level to the next. It's a celebration of her
achievements and a formal recognition of her readiness for new
adventures and responsibilities at the higher level.
Many troops hold their bridging ceremony
in May or June, and some tie it to the end of the girls’ current
school year. You may also choose to deepen your girls’ connection with
their Girl Scout sisters by holding your ceremony during National
Bridging Week.
Investiture Ceremonies
An investiture ceremony welcomes all new members to Girl Scouts. This tradition allows us to reflect on the ideals of the Girl Scout Movement and the empowering journey girls—and the millions of Girl Scouts who came before them—will undertake.
An investiture ceremony only has 3 requirements:
- Recite the Girl Scout Promise, either individually or as a group.
- Receive the appropriate membership pin—the Girl Scout Daisy pin, Girl Scout Brownie pin, or Traditional Membership pin, depending on the girls in your troop.
- Be verbally welcomed into your troop and to Girl Scouting. You may choose to give the welcome to new members yourself, or returning girls might want to collectively give the welcome.
As with all Girl Scout activities, keep your troop’s ceremony girl-led, and encourage girls to make it their own. No matter how your troop decides to customize your ceremony, your unique spin on this long-standing tradition will make investiture a memorable event for all!
Rededication Ceremonies
A rededication ceremony is a great way for returning members to kick off the troop year and renew their commitment to the Girl Scout Promise and Law. Rededication ceremonies help reinforce the values of Girl Scouting, creating a sense of community and shared purpose. They are a way for girls to reflect on their past experiences and look forward to the new year with renewed enthusiasm.
Similar to investiture ceremonies, they are girl-led and can be customized based on your troop’s needs and interests.
