More than a Badge – Girl Scouts as a Positive Childhood Experience

Bloom Kentucky’s new series of “sprout-outs” is our take on worthwhile “shout-outs”! This particular sprout-out is in honor of the great work happening with the Girl Scouts in creating positive childhood experiences across the Commonwealth.

When you think of the Girl Scouts – a few things might come to mind. Your favorite cookies… badges for leadership and community service… you might even think of your favorite neighbor who just so happens to be a “Daisy”. 

When I think of the Girl Scouts – I think of a wonderful program that brings together youth, empowers them to be the best versions of themselves, and creates positive childhood experiences (PCEs).

What are Positive Childhood Experiences?

In 2019, lead researcher Dr. Christina Bethell examined experiences that could serve as a buffer to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Through her research, Bethell was able to identify 7 positive childhood experiences (PCEs) that could be statistically linked to good emotional and mental health in adults. 

The 7 PCEs are:

  1. Talking with Family About Feelings: Girl Scouts encourage open communication through activities and events. Badges, like Knowing My Emotions, Finding My Voice, and Showing Up for Me and You, were specifically with this in mind.
  2. Supportive Family During Difficult Times: The Girl Scout sisterhood fosters a sense of community and support.
  3. Enjoying Community Traditions: Girl Scouts participate in cherished traditions like bridging events, flag ceremonies, friendship circles, and SWAPS.
  4. Belonging in High School (adaptable for all ages): Girl Scouts create a welcoming environment where girls feel they belong.
  5. Supported by Friends: Girl Scouts build strong friendships through troop activities, camp and outdoor adventures, travel and exploration, and teamwork.
  6. Caring Adults Outside the Family: Troop leaders and volunteers act as positive role models.
  7. Feeling Safe and Protected: Girl Scouts prioritize a safe and inclusive environment for all members.

Girl Scouts: Shaping Futures

From earning badges to tackling community projects, Girl Scouts offer a wealth of experiences that build confidence, leadership skills, and a sense of purpose. The Girl Scout Leadership Experience aligns with all 7 of the identified positive childhood experiences and has since 1912. The Girl Scouts has a robust coalition of members determined to create a sense of belonging and connection unapologetically. 

Whether it’s selling cookies, participating in summer camp, attending troop meetings and badge workshops, connecting with troop leaders, visiting a university to learn about a new topic, making a visit to Frankfort, or even solving a problem in their community– Girl Scouts is shaping young women all across the state and providing them with robust, positive experiences.  

Susan Douglas, CEO of Girl Scouts of Kentucky’s Wilderness Road shares,

“At Girl Scouts, we understand that a girl’s mental and emotional well-being is the foundation for everything she achieves. When girls feel confident, supported, and empowered, they’re not only happier and healthier, but they’re also better equipped to tackle challenges, become strong leaders, and make a positive impact on their communities. By fostering a safe and inclusive environment where girls can explore their identities, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and build strong relationships, we’re not just shaping individual lives – we’re building a future filled with resilient, compassionate, and capable young women who will make our communities stronger.”

A Girl Scout Troop Leader shared that…

“Being a Girl Scout volunteer and mentor has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It’s not just about teaching them new skills or helping them earn badges. It’s about creating a space where they feel safe, supported, and empowered to be themselves.

Witnessing their confidence blossom as they tackle challenges, discover their passions, and build strong friendships is truly inspiring. Mentoring these girls provides a listening ear, a source of guidance, and a role model they can look up to. It lets them know that they’re not alone and that their voices matter.”

A Girl Scout Ambassador recently shared …

“Girl Scouts is more than just badges and cookies; it’s about having a sisterhood by your side. It’s knowing you’re never alone, whether you’re trying a new skill, facing a challenge, or celebrating a success. We lift each other up, laugh together through adventures, and create friendships that can last a lifetime. It’s like having a built-in support system of girls who understand you, believe in you, and inspire you to be your best self. That’s why Girl Scouts is so important to me.”

In Kentucky, there are over 14,000 Girl Scouts supported by two Girl Scout Councils – Kentucky’s Wilderness Road and Kentuckiana. Every opportunity we give a child to have positive experiences is an investment in their emotional and mental health over their lifetime.