To make bridging more meaningful, most troops hold a special ceremony. Girls from Brownies through Senior Girl Scouts are asked to help plan their bridging ceremony. It may be in conjunction with a "sister troop," the troop girls are moving up to, or it may be done for friends and family only. In any case, this ceremony offers a time to mark and honor progression and growth.
Daisy Girl Scouts receive a Bridge to Brownie Girl Scouts Award, a Brownie Girl Scout Membership Pin, and a Daisy Girl Scout ending certificate.
Bridging ceremonies often utilize a bridge as a prop. The bridge might be specially made for use in service unit or council ceremonies, or it might be a real bridge in a park or scenic area. The act of crossing is a physical, as well as a symbolic, step into the future.
Other items used in such ceremonies might include
Flags
Candles
Dream boats (small boats to place wishes on)
Daisies
Pins for the next level up, if appropriate
Next level Girl Scout handbooks for presentation
Next level badge sashes for presentation
Displays or troop scrapbooks
Outdoor ceremonies can be memorable for all involved. Just be sure to have a backup plan for bad weather.
Many service units combine a camp weekend with bridging activities. Girls have an opportunity to get to know the girls at the next level and to do activities with them. It is also a good way to include individually registered girl members who want the bridging experience with other girls.
Ceremonies in Girl Scouting, a great resource for bridging, should be available at your council library or shop. Sample age-appropriate ceremonies are highlighted, as well as flag ceremonies for special occasions. This resource also contains a chart for ceremony planning.
