A Note From the Founder – Adding New Links
Kerry Cordy
Several members asked if I could add links to the badges in the store to all the badge requirements on the main website. While this will take awhile to complete, I am about 1/4 of the way finished at this time. Please be patient. Once I get done adding links to the store, I will reverse the process and add links on the main badge page to the physical badge in the store. I am also adding educational categories to all the badges that align with state standards for those who are using the program for homeschooling so they will be easier to find.
New blog posts and resources will also be added specifically aimed at those running Frontier Girls troops and Quest Clubs. From tips for planning meetings and ceremony ideas to working with multiple ages, I plan to address a variety of common questions. Again, it will take time, so please be patient. If you need something, just email me and I will put it to the top of my list.
I am slowing adding to and improving the website for all involved regardless of how you use my badges. If you have any suggestions as to ways to make using the website easier and more efficient, or for items you wish we included in the program, please reach out to me at kerry@curiosityuntamed.com. The more members communicate with me, the better the programs becomes for all involved.
New Badges Added
Watershed, Greek Elements, Grammar, Gods & Goddesses (Specific)
Solar Eclipse – April 8
Did you know we will have a rare total eclipse of the sun in portions of the United States on April 8, 2024? The next time you will be able to see an event like this won’t be for another 20 years so this is a great time to earn your Solar Eclipse badge. This is also an excellent opportuntiy to participate in a citzen science project to help NASA study the sun. Participants both in and outside the eclipse path can join NASA to learn more about our Sun and Earth and the effects of a total solar eclipse. Check out the NASA website for a list of citizen science projects you may be able to help with.
If you are in the path of the totality, one of the easiest ways to help out is to download the SunSketcher app and take pictures of the eclipse. Mass participation will generate an incredible database of images that, when analyzed together, could allow scientists to map the Sun. According to SunSketcher, “The 2024 Eclipse offers an unprecedented opportunity to measure the shape of the Sun and so to infer its inner structure. The SunSketcher project will use smartphone observations by Citizen Scientists situated along the two-thousand-mile-long eclipse path from Texas to Maine to reveal the precise shape of the solar disk.”
These activities offer an exciting opportunity for children to learn about space and the natural world in a hands-on way, all from the comfort of your home. By participating, your child not only gains valuable knowledge but also develops critical thinking skills and a sense of curiosity about the world around them. Plus, contributing to real scientific research through projects like this fosters a sense of responsibility and empowerment in your child. So why not dive into the world of citizen science with your kids? It’s a journey of discovery you won’t want to miss!
STEM Challenge – Grow a Plant Without Soil
Supplies:
- Paper Towels
- Clear Plastic Cups
- Sponges
- Quick-sprouting seeds like grass or chia
- Water
Using only the supplies listed above, figure out how to sprout and grow your seeds. Experiment with different variations in your setup to optimize plant growth. Plants need four things to grow: air, water, soil and sunlight. What happens when you don’t have soil? Tip: Learn about hydroponics.
(STEM Challenges are specifically vague with limited instructions as they are designed to make kids think outside the box and develop problem solving skills.)
Earth Day – April 22, 2024
Celebrate this Earth Day by earning your Earth Day badge. Our blog has a complete Earth Day Unit Study that will walk you through just about everything you need for this badge. Dive into the origins and global significance of Earth Day and discover creative ways to honor the planet. Get hands-on with sustainability in “Make an Upcycled Craft”, where you’ll learn to transform everyday items into eco-friendly treasures. Plan an unforgettable Earth Day celebration with tips and ideas in “Plan an Earth Day Party”, fostering community spirit and environmental awareness. Delve into the core principles of environmental responsibility with “The 5 R’s: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, Recycle”, and discover practical strategies for reducing waste.
Take action in your neighborhood with “Clean Up Your Community” and “Preventing Litter”, making a tangible difference in the world around you. Engage in Earth Day festivities with exciting games and activities in “Earth Day Games”, and gain valuable insights from experts in “Interview an Expert”. Finally, explore the profound impact of litter on wildlife in “How Does Litter Harm Wildlife”, deepening your understanding of environmental conservation. Explore our blog sections today to find more ready made studies to help with your badge earning adventures!
Frontier Girls Paper Dolls
One of my favorite resources for Frontier Girls troops earning the Paper Doll badge, My Troop badge, or All About Me, badges are the paper doll cutouts available for free on the Making Friends website. They have a printable page for Otter, Dolphin, Butterfly and Eagle as well as a blank set that can be customized. (Sorry, they made these many years ago before we had a Penguin level.) For the doll portion just print out their free Leadership Quest paper doll which also comes with a few different hair styles.
Tips an Tricks for Troop Leaders
- Print your sign in sheet on the back of your Troop Meeting Planning Sheet (located in the forms section). This way you will always know which kids were at which meetings and exactly what badge requirements they have completed. (Kerry Troop #101, CA) ·
- When a member of your troop advances, design an “advancement tote” and have them transfer their badges from their vest to the totebag. Present the bag to them at their advancement ceremony and explain to the other members how the tote with badges symbolizes the maturity and readiness to move on to the next level. (Karen Troop #144, PA)
- Make your own Frontier Girls pony tail holders by tying red/white/blue ribbons onto hair ties. (Sylvia and Diana Troop #109, TX) ·
If you have a favorite craft, activity, organizational or record keeping tip, or any other tip or trick you wish to share with other members, please email it to kerry@frontiergirls.com with the subject line, “Tips and Tricks”.
