A SWAP is a handmade craft that Girl Scouts give or trade to each other as a special Remember Me gift. SWAPS can be simple or elaborate. SWAPS are usually 1-2 inches in size. It is not necessary to spend a lot of money on SWAPS. Many SWAPS are made out of scapes or recycled materials but with a lot of imagination Most SWAPS are made with pins attached so they can be pinned onto a camp shirt or hat. SWAPS are little things that girls and leaders make to trade with each other at community, county or national events. SWAPS do not have to be pins. They can be bracelets, necklaces, council patches, event patches, or other small items.
The idea of SWAPS was started at the original National Roundup Conferences. At that time a SWAP was a little remembrance that on Scout gave to another. Since SWAPS are handmade, the girl is giving a part of herself to show friendship. SWAPS are exchanged at National Conventions, Council events, Wider Ops, SU or neighborhood events, troop meetings and most frequently at day camp. They should have a tag attached with the event name and date, Troop number, Council name &/or State. In some countries SWAPS are called Hat Crafts.
**Swapping promotes friendship & encourages girls to talk to other Girl Scouts.
**SWAPS are great mementos of a good time as well as a great way to share something about the that event, where we live & what we do.
**And always say "Thank You." |
