Frequently Asked Parent Questions

1.) Where do all of these patches and badges go on my daughter's uniform?

While it differs slightly for each level of Girl Scouting, a general rule of thumb is that official earned insignia (like Try-It's, Badges, and Interest Projects) go on the front of the vest or sash and fun patches go on the back.  A good resource to check proper placement of all pins and patches is the Girl Scout Central part of GSUSA's webpage.  




2.) My daughter absolutely LOVES Girl Scouting.  Is there anything more she can do beyond her troop activities?
There are lots of opportunities that exist beyond the troop.  Visit the Events & Programs section on Girl Scouts of Eastern PA’s website.  There you can sign up as an individual for a myriad of council events and trips. Also check out the Studio2b website for the latest Destination info for Girls Age 11-17!

3.) The back of my daughter's sash/vest is full.  What should I do with all these extra fun patches?
There are many great ways to save extra fun patches!  Consider sewing them on a blanket that she can with her to camp or putting them in a special photo album so she can cherish them forever!

4.) Our schedule changed and we can't make it to our Girl Scout meetings anymore. Help!
If you ever find yourself with a major scheduling conflict and your daughter still wants to continue with Girl Scouting, just let the a member of the Indian Valley Service Unit Team know and we will do our best to help you find a new troop that better meets your schedule! Email us at ivsugirlscouts@yahoo.com

5.) What in the world does "bridging" mean?
Bridging is a term that we use in Girl Scouting to refer to the transition from one level of Girl Scouting to another.  During this transition period, a girl has the opportunity to earn a Bridge To patch by investigating and learning about the new level of Girl Scouting.  The whole transition period usually culminates with a Bridging Ceremony where girls cross a ceremonial bridge to the next level of Girl Scouting.

6.) What is a Girl Scout Council?
The hierarchy of Girl Scouting is broken down as follows:
◦ Girls belong to Troops
◦ Troops belong to Service Units ( Indian Valley)
◦ Service Units make up a Council (Girl Scouts of Eastern PA)
◦ Councils make up National (Girl Scouts of the United States of America)
◦ National groups are part of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts.


7.)  How much does it cost to be a Girl Scout?
Current membership fees for girls and adults in Girl Scouting is $12 per year.  This covers your registration with GSUSA and your Girl Scout insurance.  None of this money goes to the troop or the local council.

Every troop handles finances differently.  Some troops have weekly dues while others ask for a small fee up front.  Some troops rely solely on cookie profits while others ask parents to pay for part or all of a the troop expenses. Please consult with your leader regarding troop finances.

Please note that no girl should be denied the opportunity to participate in Girl Scouting because of financial concerns.  Financial Aid is available through Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania.

8.) How can I help out my daughter's troop?
IVSU troops are always looking for helping hands!  Please contact us at ivsugirlscouts@yahoo.com or simply ask your troop leader what you can do to help!

9.) When do we sell Girl Scout cookies?
The Girl Scout cookie sale typically runs from the middle of January through the end of February.  All levels of Girl Scouts, except for Daisies, participate in the sale.  The cookie sale serves as an easy and successful way for troops and the council to earn funds.  Start thinking now of potential customers todays!