Girl Scouts knows that literacy in and of itself pertains to more than simply the ability to read. Literacy also encompasses writing, communicating with others, and processing ideas—all of which impact a girl’s success. Girl Scout founder Juliette Gordon Low encouraged literacy in the 1920s by publishing one of our nation’s very first magazines for girls, The American Girl. Reading activities earned girls the Reader badge back then. Today, literacy activities are integral to Girl Scouting. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Read: What could be easier? Read with your family and encourage your friends and family to do the same. Keep a log of how many hours you read together and submit it with your completion record.
- Tutor: Helping someone else read is a great help to both them and you! Get involved with an organization like Reading Seed, your local library or someone at your school who needs helps.
- Write: Writing is just as important as reading. Find a pen pal in the U.S. or overseas who you can write to. You’ll make a new friend, improve grammar and writing skills, and maybe learn something about another culture!
- Chief’s Challenge: Reach Out & Read - ends in January in order to go to the pizza party, but you can collect year round!
