What is the “Bridging Award” and how do my scouts earn it?

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The Bridging Award is a special patch earned by completing two specific requirements found in the Scout Handbook. First, your scout must spend 1 hour sharing their knowledge with younger scouts. Second, they need to spend 1 hour learning from a troop at the level they’re moving into. It’s a simple way to build community! The Girl Scouts of the USA Bridging Guide has all the details you’ll need.

Do we have to use a physical bridge for the ceremony?

We’ve included some patch suggestions to give to participants. See all our fun patches.

You don’t need a heavy wooden bridge to have a great event! Many troops use creative alternatives like a colorful rug, a bridge made of pool noodles, or even just two lines of tape on the floor. Use these scout bridging ceremony ideas to save space and money. Just make sure it’s something the girls can safely step over to symbolize their big move to the next level.

See our post 9 DIY Ideas for Bridges for Your Bridging Ceremony

How long should a scout bridging ceremony last?

A typical bridging ceremony should last between 30 and 45 minutes to keep everyone engaged. This timeframe allows for 10 minutes of opening flag ceremonies, 20 minutes for the actual crossing and badge presentation, and 15 minutes for photos. If you have a large troop of over 15 scouts, you might need an extra 10 minutes. Keep it moving so the kids don’t get wiggly!

Can we bridge multiple levels at the same time?

You can absolutely bridge multiple levels during a single event! In fact, 65% of multi-level troops hold one big Super Bridge ceremony to save time and resources. Just organize the flow so the youngest scouts, like Daisies, cross first. This allows the older scouts to act as mentors and welcome them to the other side. Use these scout bridging ceremony ideas to plan a smooth transition for every age group in your troop.

How much does a typical bridging ceremony cost to host?

A typical ceremony for 10 scouts costs between $25 and $75 total. This budget covers $15 for basic craft supplies, $20 for snacks like juice and cookies, and $30 for certificates or small gifts. For families looking for a more personal keepsake to mark the occasion, you can discover VIP PRINTS 4U. You can keep costs down by asking parents to bring a potluck dish. Use recycled cardboard for your bridge to save $50 or more on rental fees. It’s all about making memories without breaking the bank!

What are some good songs for a bridging ceremony?

Make New Friends is the most popular choice, sung by 85% of troops during their ceremony. It’s a classic for a reason! You can also use The Brownie Smile Song or Girl Scouts Together to add a traditional touch. Print out song sheets for the 20 parents attending so everyone can sing along. Keep the music upbeat and fast to match the 100% excitement level of your scouts!