One of the most challenging things for a new troop leader is building relationships. We all want Girl Scouts to be a place where girls are establishing deep, healthy, positive bonds... with each other, and with us! Creating a safe space for them to connect with adults they can depend on and who are invested in their present and their future is one of the primary reasons most of us even volunteer in the first place!
But, it can be awkward, challenging, and even forced, especially at the beginning! With such little time spent together in any given week or month, how do we just waltz in and encourage girls to be close to us? 
Here are a few of my biggest tips for bonding with girls. 
1. It takes time! The more years you are a part of her life, the more she knows you are a consistent and dependable adult she can rely on. And the literal number of hours you spend together... are the foundation for your bond!
2. Overnights and trips. Not just for the sheer number of hours you will spend together, but also because it's a special experience that fosters bonding and connection.
3. Girl Led, Learning By Doing, and Cooperative Learning while girls try new things and have new experiences. Help girls seek challenges using GSLE methodology... the program is literally built to support bonding and connection!
 
The idea for this podcast came from the latest episode of another Girl Scout oriented show - All Things Girl Scouts. You can check it out here: https://allthingsgirlscouts.com/
 
To brush up on your GSLE, check out these past episodes of our show:
http://girlscoutpodcast.libsyn.com/012-gsle-and-the-cookie-program-cookie-cast-part-1
http://girlscoutpodcast.libsyn.com/013-cookie-cast-part-2-the-five-skills-girls-learn-and-best-practices-for-your-cookie-season
http://girlscoutpodcast.libsyn.com/015-gsle-outcomes-and-progression-put-the-outcomes-in-to-practice
 
Want to check out some cool photo memorabilia options? Here are some of our favorites!
The Original Photobook Source, Shutterfly: https://www.shutterfly.com/

Or, get one from Walgreens: https://photo.walgreens.com/store/photo-books

Here's the exact photo album I used as described in this episode! https://www.amazon.com/Leather-Capacity-Wedding-Anniversary-Vacation/dp/B07KLTZ7V9/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=600%2Bphoto%2Balbum&qid=1561676789&s=gateway&sr=8-5&th=1