Sparks have the option of earning badges called Keepers. In Sparks we earn all our keepers as a group, the girls do not work towards them individually at home. Traditionally Spark Guiders will work towards half the badges one year, and then alternate to the other half the next year, so when a girl advances to Brownies she has earned all the badges. There are a total of nine Spark badges to be earned.
Typically a badge is earned at a meeting where all our activities focus on that particular badge. If your girl misses a badge work meeting for any reason, she will not earn that badge this year.
So what are the Spark badges? They are:
Being A Spark
The activities in this badge introduce girls to being a spark. This badge is earned early when a Spark learns the Spark Promise, the regular songs sung at meeting openings and closings, and participates in the Enrollment Ceremony.
Being Me
Sparks are an age group where children start to develop an awareness of the differences and similarities between people. Being Me activities help girls discover things about themselves and reinforce the art of friendship and getting along.
Going Outside
Outdoor activities are a major part of Guiding. In parks, playing fields, beaches, and other public places girls can have fun being physically active, while also learning about the world around them. Taking the girls outside makes the Guiding Movement more visible in our community, and teaches valuable lessons about nature and a love for the outdoors. Please ensure permission slips are signed when sent home for any outside activities.
The World Around Me
Guiding is a worldwide movement. This badge teaches awareness of different cultures and guiding partners in other countries. We learn about WAGGGS, the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts, and gain basic geography and social study skills.
Being Healthy
Good health and a positive body image go hand in hand. The Being Healthy keeper is about learning to take care of our bodies to stay healthy. This includes healthy eating and exercising.
In My Community
Learning about local institutions such as libraries, hospitals, and firehalls is important to a child's development. In My Community is the first step to understanding the world in which your Spark lives and how Guiding fits into that world.
Exploring and Experimenting
Taking time to explore and experiment encourages girls to look beyond their immediate environment and discover new and exciting things. To explore means to look around and discover, and to experiment means to undertake activities to make a discovery.
Going Camping
This Keeper introduces the concepts of camping and going outdoors. Traditionally Sparks to not camp, but they may have a sleepover or simulated overnight camping experience indoors.
Brownies and Beyond
Learning about Brownies lets your girl get excited about the next step in Guiding. Brownies and Beyond traditionally involves attending a Brownie meeting and this Keeper is only earned by second year sparks.
