Updated October 2019
If you are a new troop leader or a seasoned one starting a new Girl Scout Daisy troop, there are certain essential items that you should have on hand. These materials should stay in your leader bag or your your separate craft bag. While there are some leaders, like my older daughter's, who insisted that every girl in her troop have her own craft supply box, I did not. It was one more thing to remind the parents to get each year and to remember to bring in their Responsibility Bag.
Photo from Pixabay and edited by the author in Canva
The best and most cost effective thing for leaders to do is purchase craft items during the summer Back to School season. Save your receipts to get reimbursed...no matter how inexpensive these items are, you should not have to spend your own money to finance troop activities. While once in awhile I did spend a buck or two at the Dollar Store for a last minute item and did not ask for my money back, I did not lay out big money. Volunteering my time was my most valuable asset.
Here are some great items to have. Buy several now when they are at their lowest prices of the year!
Thick Washable Markers
As a mom, a teacher and a leader, I know first hand the importance of washable markers when working with young children. It gets everywhere!
This box of Crayola Markers is an incredible deal. For one low price, you get a variety of shades that every girl can use. One box is perfect for a troop.
Thin Washable Markers
Yes, there is a difference between thick and thin markers. It is hard to outline and get into smaller places with a thick marker. This set of 100 washable markers is perfect for troops.
Elmer's Glue Sticks
Over my three decades plus of teaching, I have come to one conclusion-my glue needs to be Elmer's. I have tried other brands, and in my opinion, nothing compares to this classic from my childhood.
By far, this 30 pack is the best price. There is free shipping, so you have nothing extra to pay!
Elmer's Washable Glue
Sometimes liquid glue in a bottle is the better choice. Again, I go with the classic Elmer's Washable Glue in a bottle.
Colored Pencils
Walmart has many different options in their colored pencil department.
Glitter Watercolor Paint Set
Why glitter paint? First of all, you should not use glitter with young children, as it gets everywhere! My school has a policy that we cannot use glitter for that reason. However, glitter paint is contained glitter.Besides, every person needs a bit of glitter in her life!
Construction Paper
Paper is a must have item, with 8 x 11 being the classic size.
Scissors
Another must have item that is at its best price now are kid scissors. What kind should you buy? My preference for kindergarten and first grade are blunt scissors. The girls can use pointy ones once they reach second grade.
Pink Erasers
Whether you are writing or crafting, having a few large pink erasers on hand for the girls to use is essential.
There are so many gorgeous stickers to use for projects! My favorite for Daisy Scouts are these glitter foam stickers.
Do you have anything that you need to have in your leader craft bag?