The Ultimate Girl Scout Cookie Season Guide 🍪💚

The 2026 Girl Scout Cookie Season is officially here and if you’re already craving Thin Mints or plotting how many boxes of Adventurefuls you can fit in your pantry… same. Whether you’re a seasoned cookie connoisseur or you’re just here for the vibes, here are five things you need to know before you stock up.

1. When does Girl Scout Cookie Season start?


National Girl Scout Cookie Season begins on January 6, and every council opens at its own time. The easiest way to check when sales begin near you is to enter your zip code into the Cookie Finder box at the top of our website. You will see booth times, online ordering windows and everything you need in one place. If your local council is not yet selling cookies, the Cookie Finder will display a countdown to when their season begins so you can plan to support troops in your community. You may also see links for neighboring troops or booths from nearby councils that are already in season. This is helpful if you are interested in direct shipping or willing to travel. If you want to support a specific area, you can also type in a ZIP code to explore all available options. 

2. Where can you buy cookies?


There are several easy ways to support your local Girl Scouts.
  • Start with the Cookie Finder. Enter your zip code to see when your council’s sale begins, find local cookie booths, and learn how to get cookies delivered to your home.
  • Visit cookie booths in your community once your council’s sale is live.
  • Purchase directly from a Girl Scout you know through her Digital Cookie link.
  • Text COOKIES to 59618 for updates and reminders.
Most councils run January through April, giving you plenty of chances to bring home your favorite flavors.

3. Meet the newest cookie, Exploremores™


Exploremores is the newest addition to the cookie lineup and it is and there's already great anticipation. Inspired by Rocky Road ice cream, these chocolate sandwich cookies are filled with the delicious flavors of chocolate, marshmallow and toasted almond flavored creme and reflect the spirit of exploration in every Girl Scout. Local troops will have them at booths or can ship nationwide, so it is easy for anyone to try the newest cookie while still stocking up on Adventurefuls, Thin Mints, and Trefoils.

4. Cookie booth etiquette


Cookie booths are real world learning spaces where girls practice communication, teamwork and confidence. A little kindness can make every interaction memorable for them.
  • Be kind and encouraging.
  • Direct concerns to GSUSA rather than volunteers or girls.
  • Avoid diet-related comments and keep the space positive.
  • Recognize the effort behind each booth.
  • If you are not buying today, a friendly smile or quick good luck still makes a difference.

5. Why buying Girl Scout Cookies from Girl Scouts matters


Every box supports the largest girl led entrepreneurial program in the world. Through the Cookie Program, Girl Scouts build skills in goal setting, money management, decision making and working with others. They earn badges tied to financial literacy and entrepreneurship and carry these lessons with them long after the season ends.

Your support also stays local. Cookie proceeds fund troop activities, outdoor adventures, service projects in your community, and more. Each purchase helps Girl Scouts learn, grow and try new things all year long.

Let’s make this season the sweetest one yet!


Cookie Season is more than a moment. It brings people together, powers big dreams and gives girls the chance to grow in so many ways. Whatever cookie flavors you pick up, you are helping create meaningful opportunities for Girl Scouts everywhere. Thanks for being part of that journey. You truly take the cake… or in this case, the cookie!







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The Ultimate Girl Scout Cookie Season Guide 🍪💚

Girl Scout Daisy Cookie Sale Resources

*This post contains affiliate links. 

It's that time of year...Girl Scout cookie season!

If you decided to take the plunge and sell cookies with your troop, here are some blog posts from the past to help you get your bearings.

One thing that girls love is to receive recognition for their accomplishments (and come to think of it, don't we all love to be recognized for a job well done?)

Girl Scout Daisy Cookie Sale Resources

In my Teachers Pay Teachers shop, I have a Girl Scout Daisy Certificate and Cookie Box Label product.  

The 9 items included in this resource are:

  • First Cookie Booth certificate
  • Daisy Specific Congratulations certificate
  • Hard Work certificate
  • Enthusiastic Helper certificate
  • First Cookie Booth certificate
  • Certificate of Appreciation for the girls' help
  • Certificate of Thanks for Cookie Mom
  • Certificate of Thanks for Cookie Dad
  • Set of 8 Daisy "Thank You" labels girls can cut and paste to their cookie boxes

Every girl is going to contribute in one way or another. Some may have a lot of parental support while others will have none. Girls who help at meetings can also be recognized for their efforts.

These certificates can be given at your troop cookie selling celebration. They are perfect for Girl Scout scrapbooks!

What are your cookie goals for the year?
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Girl Scout Daisy Cookie Sale Resources

Make a Girl Scout Daisy Time Capsule for Thirds Day 3.3.33

*This post contains affiliate links.

Did you know that on 3/3/33 your Daisy troop will be 11th or 12th grade Ambassador Scouts? 

I have a fun way for your troop to celebrate now and then again later!

This Girl Scout Daisy Time Capsule Meeting for Thirds Day 3.3.33 is one where your troop will create a special box of memories to be opened when they are teenagers. March 3, 2033 takes place on a Thursday, so it will be Thirds Day! It is another special numerical palindrome that your scouts will get to celebrate.

Make a Girl Scout Daisy Time Capsule for Thirds Day 3.3.33

Available on Teachers Pay Teachers


Included in this resource are:

  • A list of activities you can do with your troop to prepare your time capsule
  • Ideas to make your time capsule
  • Two "All About me" pages
  • A Troop Signature page
  • A letter to their Future Ambassador Scout page

This is fun to do now and something to look forward to later!
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Make a Girl Scout Daisy Time Capsule for Thirds Day 3.3.33

Girl Scout Daisy Craft and Tinker Meeting Plans

*This post contains affiliate links. 

The Girls Scouts of the USA have issued some new badges for Daisies, Brownie and Juniors. One of the newest badges is the Girl Scout Daisy Craft and Tinker Badge.

What is the Girl Scout Daisy Craft and Tinker Badge?

The Girl Scout Daisy Craft and Tinker Badge badge will have your troop  creating something new, but thinking about who they are making it for and what they need to make it work. They will get to use different craft tools to make a gift for someone special.


Girl Scout Daisy Craft and Tinker Badge


Available on TpT


What's included in this resource:

  • All three steps
  • Hands on stations activity for Step 1
  • Choice of three different age appropriate crafts for Step 2
  • Easy discussion for Step 3


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Girl Scout Daisy Craft and Tinker Meeting Plans

Free Girl Scout World Thinking Day 2024 Resources

If you need help planning, here are free Girl Scout World Thinking Day 2024 resources for leaders to use.


World Thinking Day is an annual celebration that takes place on February 22nd by Girl Scouts and Girl Guides all around the world. The day is a reminder of the impact that young girls and women can have on their communities and the world as a whole. In 2024, the theme for World Thinking Day is “Our World, Our Thriving Future: The environment and global poverty” .”

Girl Scouts and Girl Guides from different countries use this day to celebrate the diverse cultures and traditions of their fellow members. They also take this opportunity to learn about global issues and take action to make the world a better place.


Free Girl Scout World Thinking Day 2024 Resources

One way that Girl Scouts can participate in World Thinking Day is by earning the World Thinking Day award. This award encourages girls to learn about different cultures and traditions, as well as take action to make a positive impact in their communities. Another way to celebrate this day is by organizing cultural events, such as food festivals, dances, and performances, that showcase the diversity of Girl Scouts and Girl Guides around the world.

What is the Theme for Girl Scout World Thinking Day 2024?

The theme for Girl Scout World Thinking Day 2024 is “Our World, Our Thriving Future: The environment and global poverty” â€ť explores the link between poverty and the environment and find out how these problems are even more challenging for girls and women in your community and around the world.


Girl Scout World Thinking Day Planner


Free WTD Planner Available on TpT

Does My Troop Have to Celebrate World Thinking Day 2024 on February 22nd?

This question was raised in one of the Facebook groups that I belong to. After reading the responses from other leaders, I did my own research just to be sure what was posted was correct.

The answer is no, you do not have to celebrate World Thinking Day 2024 on the exact day, or even in February. Fit it in when it works for your troop.

From the GSUSA website:

“Making the world a better place is Girl Scout Law, so it’s no surprise we have a holiday dedicated to doing just that. Each February 22, Girl Scouts and Girl Guides across 150 countries celebrate World Thinking Day. It’s a day of international friendship and a time to stand up for causes that could improve the lives of girls around the globe. And while the holiday itself comes in February, the World Thinking Day Award can be earned at any time of year.“

This news will be a welcome bit of information, as so many are knee deep into cookies sales and earning cookie badges.

Free Girl Scout Thinking Day 2024 Resources for Leaders

WAGGS and the Girl Scout of the USA website have you covered with free World Thinking Day resources for leaders.

The Girl Scout Shop has the patch for the girls’ uniform, as well as two PDFs for you to use. Look under the patch description and click on the correct link.

Daisy, Brownie and Junior requirements can be found here.

Cadette, Senior and Ambassador requirements can be found here.

The World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts website has a downloadable activity packet here.


Girl Scout World Thinking Day Passport

Free WTD Passport Available on TpT

Do Troops Still Learn About Girl Scouts in Different Countries for World Thinking Day 2024?

In the past, learning about other countries was the focus of World Thinking Day. Now the focus is on the how sisters in scouting around the world can help our planet.

If you decide that you want to focus on one country, you can read this blog post and get your free printable passports.

Here is a free printable planner that you can use to organize your World Thinking Day 2024 meeting. I also have a free printable passport to use atyour meeting.

If you wish to play games from other countries, check out this blog post with games from around the world.

When does your troop plan to celebrate Girl Scout World Thinking Day 2024?


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Free Girl Scout World Thinking Day 2024 Resources

Explore the World Of Animals with the New Badges

Girl Scouts are good at so many things, from learning new skills to spreading joy and giving back to their communities. One thing that unites Girl Scouts is their desire to create positive change and help others. With their boundless curiosity, Girl Scouts have the power to make a difference in the world, not only in the lives of people, but also in the lives of every creature we share the planet with: animals!

Animals close to home can provide companionship and support, or make our lives easier. Animals far away can spark a new interest or teach us more about the world. But some animals face danger every day. Because they can't speak up when they need help, it’s our job to protect them. When your Daisy, Junior, or Cadette starts earning one of the new Girl Scout Animal Badges, they’ll embark on a fun journey into the world of animals.

Unlock a NEW badge by downloading one of our free, fun activities! Animal Habitats and Animal Helpers badge—made possible thanks to The Elliott Wildlife Values Project. 

Animal Observer–Daisy (K-1)

Girl Scouts are naturally curious and eager to explore their surroundings. With the new Animal Observer badge, Daisy Girl Scouts will hone in on their observation skills to discover more about animals, near and far. They’ll start by using their senses to identify animal sounds, prints, and behaviors and take notes like an animal scientist. Then they’ll play games to solidify their knowledge and have the chance to visit one of their favorite animals in real life!

Animal Habitats–Junior (4-5)

Animals live in all types of homes—in trees, underground, underwater, and even on glaciers! With the Animal Habitats badge, Junior Girl Scouts can investigate different animal habitats at home and around the world. They’ll use their curiosity to explore animal homes and try their hand at building one. Then they’ll learn about endangered animals and the importance of protecting their habitats to benefit the planet.

Animal Helpers–Cadettes (6-8)

The connection between humans and animals has always existed. Whether animals are serving to protect or provide comfort in difficult times, the animal-human connection is an essential part of human history. With the Animal Helpers badge, Cadette Girl Scouts will learn about this connection and its mutual benefits. They will learn to translate knowledge into action and become advocates for animals by actively participating in organizations dedicated to animal welfare.

The Girl Scout Animal badges not only teach Girl Scouts about their favorite animals, they also help them discover more about the world around them and how to use what they learn to create positive change.
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Explore the World Of Animals with the New Badges

The New Girl Scout Leadership Awards Explained


Girl Scouts’ leadership pathway just got a major glow-up and a few things are changing:

  • Leadership Awards are now the official prerequisites for the Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards.
  • One Leadership Award earned at your program level fulfills the prerequisite for each of the Highest Awards.
  • Additionally, the Bronze Award is now a prerequisite option for the Silver Award, and the Silver Award is a prerequisite option for the Gold Award.
  • One Journey may still be used to meet the Highest Award prerequisite requirements through October 1, 2026.


Why Were the Awards Refreshed?

Inspired by Juliette Gordon Low’s courage and character, the refreshed awards create a clearer, more modern path to leadership. They focus on long-lasting skills like communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and confidence.

What Are the New Leadership Awards?
The Leadership Awards are a new set of skill-building experiences for Girl Scouts in grades 4–12. They focus on four areas of leadership: personal, peer, teaching, and community advocacy, and they are designed to be flexible.

Each award is designed to help Girl Scouts explore their interests, build practical skills, and focus on things that matter to them. And the best part? Earning one Leadership Award at your program level now fulfills the prerequisite for the Bronze, Silver, or Gold Award. Girl Scouts can earn them during troop meetings, at camp, at events, or individually.


Which Awards Are Retired?

Leader in Action (LiA) are retired as of July 2025. Cadettes can still get hands-on experience with younger Girl Scouts through the refreshed Program Aide award.

The previous Silver and Gold Torch award (based on holding a leadership position for a term )is also retired. Updated Torch awards now focus on teamwork and leading peers in more flexible, accessible ways.

Journeys will officially be retired on October 1, 2026. In their place, Juniors through Ambassadors can now earn the Leadership Awards.

The current Global Action award will also retire in 2026. Juniors – Ambassadors can earn the new Global Action Award, and Daisies and Brownies will have other opportunities to explore global themes, like through World Thinking Day and the Democracy badges.



My Girl Scout already started on one of the Journeys and/or a Leadership Award using retired guidelines. Now What?

Starting in October 2026, Journeys will be retired. Until then, Girl Scouts may continue completing Journeys, and any finished Journey will remain valid and will continue to count toward the Highest Awards.

Girl Scouts can apply the Leadership Awards as a prerequisite regardless of whether they were earned using the retired or new guidelines.



A Closer Look at the New Leadership Awards

Below is a quick guide to each award category to help you understand what each award is all about!




Personal Leadership

True North Award

Available for Juniors, Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors

This brand-new award helps Girl Scouts discover their values, build confidence, and understand what matters to them. It’s all about staying true to yourself and taking courageous steps to make a meaningful impact.

Prerequisite for the Highest Awards when earned at your level.






Peer Leadership

Silver Torch Award

Available for Cadettes
Learn how to shine as part of a team. Cadettes build teamwork skills, support group goals, and explore how to motivate and inspire others.


Gold Torch Award

Available for Senior/Ambassador
Grow into a leader who guides with purpose and heart. Girl Scouts practice bringing people together, collaborating, and turning ideas into real impact.

The Silver Torch counts as a prerequisite for the Silver Award—and the Gold Torch for the Gold Award.



Teaching Leadership Awards

Junior Aide

Available for Juniors

Plan and lead one fun, inclusive activity for younger kids. This award builds confidence and helps Girl Scouts discover their unique leadership style.


Program Aide

Available for Cadettes

Lead multiple activities—including a full meeting—for younger Girl Scouts. Cadettes practice being thoughtful role models while building real planning and leadership skills.


Volunteer in Training (VIT)

Available for Senior/Ambassador

Guide younger Girl Scouts by leading two full meetings. Teens learn how to create meaningful experiences, support growth, and make younger kids feel included.


Counselor in Training I (CITI)

Available for Senior/Ambassador

Learn the basics of camp leadership by supporting campers, assisting staff, and leading songs, games, and activities. It’s all about growing confidence and becoming a role model at camp. Contact your local council to locate CIT programs.


Counselor in Training II (CITII)

Available for Ambassador

Take leadership at camp to the next level by planning activities, supporting staff, and practicing real-world leadership skills like schedule management and conflict resolution.

Contact your local council to locate CIT programs.


The Junior Aid counts as a prerequisite for the Bronze Award, the Program Aide as a prerequisite for the Silver Award, and the VIT, CIT, and CITII as prerequisite options for the Gold Award.

 

Community Advocacy Awards

Take Action Award

Available for Junior–Ambassador

Work as a team to identify a local issue, understand what’s behind it, and develop a long-lasting solution that creates real change.


Global Action Award

Available for Junior–Ambassador

Learn how different communities around the world experience similar issues. Then create a project that makes a meaningful, globally connected impact.

Either award fulfills the prerequisite for the Highest Awards when earned at your level.

The Leadership Awards help Girl Scouts grow into confident, capable leaders, whether they love creativity, teamwork, teaching younger kids, or making change in their community. Along the way, they build skills like communication, planning, collaboration, and decision-making that last far beyond Girl Scouts.

With these awards now serving as the official prerequisites for the Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards, they create a clear, connected leadership pathway where earning the Bronze Award can count toward Silver, and Silver can count toward Gold. That means each step builds on the last as Girl Scouts earn each of Girl Scouting’s highest honors.


If you want to learn more or explore which award is right for your Girl Scout, you can find additional details on the Leadership Awards landing page and in the full FAQs. These resources offer clear guidance, step-by-step information, and support to help every Girl Scout get started with confidence. If you have more individualized questions, reach out to your council staff.
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The New Girl Scout Leadership Awards Explained

7 Ways to Build a Strong Girl Scout Troop Community

One of the best parts of being a Girl Scout is knowing you’re part of something bigger than yourself. The friendships, inside jokes, shared accomplishments, community projects, and even the occasional meeting that doesn’t go quite as planned all become part of the experience. As a troop leader, you [...]

The post 7 Ways to Build a Strong Girl Scout Troop Community appeared first on Troop Leader Central.

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7 Ways to Build a Strong Girl Scout Troop Community

5 Young Trailblazers to Know This Black History Month

 


Black History Month is a time to honor the past, celebrate the present, and look toward the future. Across the country, young people are shaping that future right now using creativity, courage, and compassion to challenge norms, open doors, and make space for others to thrive. We’re highlighting several young trailblazers whose stories reflect the power of ideas, leadership, and believing in what’s possible at any age.


Haili Smith and Brooke Smith


In 2020, siblings Haili Smith and Brooke Smith turned a personal challenge into a powerful solution. With different reading preferences but a shared realization, they noticed that stories became more engaging when young readers could see themselves reflected on the page. That led them to launch an organization dedicated to increasing access to culturally diverse children’s books in classrooms. What began as a simple idea has grown into a nationwide effort, with thousands of books placed into the hands of students. Their work highlights the importance of representation, empathy, and using lived experiences to spark positive change.


Genesis Butler


Genesis Butler has been advocating for the planet since early childhood. Inspired by family history and a concern for the environment, she began speaking out about the connection between everyday choices and environmental impact at a remarkably young age. Her voice quickly gained attention, opening doors for her to share her message on global stages. Over the years, Genesis has founded and led youth-driven initiatives focused on sustainability and climate awareness. Her leadership shows what’s possible when passion meets persistence, and how young people can influence conversations about the future of our world.


Bellen Woodard


Bellen Woodard noticed the language used in everyday creative spaces didn’t reflect everyone. Instead of accepting the norm, she imagined something better. Her idea helped shift how children think about identity, inclusion, and self-expression through art. By choosing curiosity and compassion, Bellen sparked conversations that reached far beyond her classroom. Her work reminds us that leadership often starts with asking thoughtful questions and having the courage to offer a more inclusive solution.


Kamora Freeland


Kamora Freeland looked to the sky and saw possibility. Introduced to aviation as a teenager, she balanced rigorous academics with flight training, earning her pilot’s license before many teens earn a driver’s license! In 2024, she made history as one of the youngest African American female pilots in her state. Kamora’s achievements extend beyond aviation. Graduating early and continuing her education with a focus on leadership and innovation, she is committed to opening doors for others who may not see themselves represented in the field. Her story is a powerful reminder that preparation, persistence, and confidence can help girls break barriers and soar beyond expectations.



Nia Thompson


From an early age, Nia Thompson knew she belonged on stage. A bold declaration in early childhood became a journey shaped by dedication, discipline, and self-advocacy. By the time she was a teenager, Nia had achieved a major performance milestone, turning years of preparation into a defining moment. Beyond performing, Nia has used her platform to celebrate culture, confidence, and creativity. She has explored storytelling through multiple formats and continues to build opportunities that uplift young voices. Her path reflects the power of setting goals early, believing in yourself, and showing up fully.

These young trailblazers remind us that leadership doesn’t wait for permission or perfection. It begins with noticing what’s missing, imagining something better, and taking that first brave step forward. During Black History Month, and all year long, we celebrate the next generation of changemakers who are shaping a more inclusive and hopeful future.
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5 Young Trailblazers to Know This Black History Month

Girl Scout Leap Year Meeting

If you want to take a break from regular badge work, here is a once every four years Girl Scout Leap Year meeting.

*This post contains affiliate links.

For many leaders who are in the cookie zone, the end of February may seem like a long way off. Booth sales, cookie meetings, and cookie cupboard pickups are front and center right now. Even though it is a few weeks away, it isn’t too soon to start planning your upcoming meetings.

This year, in 2024, leaders have the once every four years opportunity to celebrate Leap Year with their troop. Daisies don’t remember what a Leap Year is, as they were toddlers the last time one occurred in 2020. 

Leaders, here is an opportunity for your troop to celebrate February 29th, 2024 with this Girl Scout Leap Year Meeting resource.

Girl Scout Leap Year Meeting


 
Girl Scout Leap Year Meeting


Available on TpT

Included in this resource:

  • Leap Year trivia game
  • Movement activities
  • Thinking games
  • Recipes and other food activities
  • Future Me page
  • Coloring pages
  • All printables

What are you planning to do for your Girl Scout Leap Year meeting?

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Girl Scout Leap Year Meeting