How to Plan for Girl Scout Twilight Camp

Twilight camps include crafts and other activities

Girl Scout Twilight Camps are several day-long events designed for girls who may not be ready for overnight camping. Twilight Camps typically run from the mid-afternoon or early evening until twilight (between 7 pm and 9 pm); some camps offer overnight experiences for girls above a certain age. Twilight Camp activities are organized around a variety of themes and offer girls the opportunity to learn about different cultures, do crafts, enjoy outdoor activities and otherwise expand their knowledge in a number of areas. Some twilight camps offer Girl Scouts the chance to earn merit badges and other rewards. Registration fees for twilight camps typically cover the cost of all craft materials and meals, as well as camping fees if an overnight stay is involved.

Things You'll Need

• Registration packet from your local Girl Scout Council
• Your child's health records and information
• Funds to pay fees

Instructions

1. 

   You will need to fill out a health information form for your child when registering for Twilight Camp

   Determine the camp(s) your child would like to attend. Most local Girl Scout Councils have a list or calendar of upcoming camps on their websites. Carefully read the registration requirements and camp descriptions. Choose the camp(s) that seem appropriate for your child and which fit your schedule. Working parents will need to make arrangements for drop-off and pick-up, for example.

2. Download and print the registration form from your local Girl Scout Council's website or pick it up from their office. Fill in the form completely, including any health information or special needs your child may have.

3. Return the registration form by mail with an enclosed check or credit card information for the appropriate fees to the contact listed on the form. Some Girl Scout Councils allow online registration for Twilight Camp.

4. Discuss with your child what the camp experience will be like. Depending on her age, ask about any concerns or fears she might have about being away from home for several hours. Look at the camp materials, such as the activities list, together and discuss what she might expect from the different activities.

5. Prepare your child for the overnight camping activity, if she is participating. Talk to her about what it may be like to stay away from home if this is her first time doing so. Ask her if she has any questions or concerns, and let her know she can come to you with these at any time. Prepare her camping gear and personal items together; your camp organizer can provide you with a list of recommended items. Be sure to include not only essentials, such as a sleeping bag, toothbrush and clean clothes, but also items that might make your child feel safe or comfortable, such as a favorite pillow or T-shirt to sleep in. If possible, visit the camp location before dropping her off for the first day so that it is not completely unfamiliar to her.

Tips & Warnings

• Talk with your child about how she feels about staying away from home overnight, if this is an option for the Twilight Camp you choose. The most popular camps fill up quickly, so be sure to register early!

References

• Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas: Day and Twilight Camps
• Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas: 2011 Day and Twilight Camps
• Stanford Work Life Office: Prepareing Your Child for Camp