At the Girl Scout Junior level (fourth and fifth
grades), girls . . .
This means . . .
Want to make decisions and express their
opinions.
Whenever possible, allowing girls to make decisions and
express their opinions through guided discussion and
active reflection activities. Also, have girls set rules for
listening to others’ opinions and offering assistance in
decision making.
Are social and enjoy doing things in groups.
Allowing girls to team-up in small or large groups for art
projects, performances, and written activities.
Are aware of expectations and sensitive to the
judgments of others.
Although it’s okay to have expectations, the expectation is
not perfection! Share your own mistakes and what you
learned from them, and be sure to create an environment
where girls can be comfortable sharing theirs.
Are concerned about equity and fairness.
Not shying away from discussing why rules are in place,
and having girls develop their own rules for their group.
Are beginning to think abstractly and critically,
and are capable of flexible thought. Juniors can
consider more than one perspective, as well as
the feelings and attitudes of another.
Asking girls to explain why they made a decision, share
their visions of their roles in the future, and challenge their
own and others’ perspectives.
Have strong fine and gross motor skills and
coordination.
Engaging girls in moving their minds and their bodies.
Allow girls to express themselves through written word,
choreography, and so on.
Love to act in plays, create music, and dance.
Girls might like to tell a story through playwriting, playing
an instrument, or choreographing a dance.
May be starting puberty, which means beginning
breast development, skin changes, and weight
changes. Some may be getting their periods.
Being sensitive to girls’ changing bodies, possible
discomfort over these changes, and their desire for more
information. Create an environment that acknowledges
and celebrates this transition as healthy and normal for
girls.
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