SWAPS in the Hornets' Nest Store!
A SWAPS board is now available in our very own Hornets' Nest Council store, where girls can leave and take SWAPS to help carry on this tradition!
A SWAPS board is 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 gives 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
Bridging is a special Girl Scout ceremony
that celebrates a girl’s transition from one program level to the
next—such as from Daisy to Brownie or Junior to Cadette. It symbolizes
growth, progress, and readiness for new adventures and
responsibilities in Girl Scouting. The key moment is when the girl
crosses a bridge, often a real or symbolic one, to represent her move forward.
We hold bridging ceremonies to honor
and celebrate a girl's achievements and to mark an important step in
her Girl Scout journey. It gives girls a sense of accomplishment and
helps them reflect on what they’ve learned, while looking forward to
new experiences. Bridging also strengthens troop unity and provides
a meaningful moment for families and leaders to recognize each
girl's growth.
Example Bridging Ceremony 
Investiture Ceremonies
Investiture is a special ceremony where a girl officially becomes a member of Girl Scouts for the first time. During this moment, she receives her Girl Scout pin and says the Girl Scout Promise, often in front of family, friends, and fellow troop members. It marks the beginning of her journey as a Girl Scout and welcomes her into a global sisterhood.
We hold investiture ceremonies to honor and celebrate a girl's choice to join Girl Scouts. It's more than just receiving a pin—it's a meaningful rite of passage that helps girls feel recognized, valued, and connected to a larger community. It also introduces them to the traditions, values, and responsibilities of being a Girl Scout in a memorable and inspiring way.
Example Investiture Ceremony
Rededication Ceremonies
Rededication is a ceremony where current Girl Scouts renew their commitment to the Girl Scout Promise and Law. It's a time for girls who have already been invested to reflect on what being a Girl Scout means to them and to reaffirm the values they've learned and lived by. This ceremony is often held at the beginning of a new troop year or during a special event.
We hold rededication ceremonies to celebrate continued membership and growth in Girl Scouts. It reminds girls of the ideals they strive to uphold and strengthens their bond with the troop and the wider Girl Scout community. Rededication reinforces the idea that Girl Scouting is not just a one-time experience, but a journey of learning, leading, and making a difference year after year.
Example Rededication Ceremony
Color Guard/ Flag Ceremony
A Girl Scouts color guard, also known as
a flag ceremony, is a formal event that involves presenting and
displaying the American flag (and potentially other Girl Scout flags)
with respect and dignity. It's a way to honor the flag, the country,
and the Girl Scout Promise and Pledge. The ceremony typically includes
a color guard, a caller, and the Girl Scouts and guests. It’s often
conducted at the beginning or end of a meeting, campout, or special
event. The ceremony teaches girls about citizenship, respect for the
flag, and leadership.
What is GORP?
GORP in Girl Scouts stands for "Good
Old Raisins and Peanuts". It is a traditional trail mix snack
often made during camping or hiking trips and symbolizes sharing,
teamwork, and outdoor fun. GORP can be customized with various
ingredients like nuts, dried fruit, chocolate, and cereal, making it a
fun and nutritious treat for adventures.
Example GORP Ceremony
Discover More Traditions and Ceremonies
To learn about even more great Girl Scout traditions and ceremonies, click the button below!
