SWAPS
Keepsakes for Girl Scouts

SWAPS, the tradition of Girl Scouts exchanging keepsakes, started long ago when Girl Scouts and Girl Guides first gathered for fun, song, and making new friends.

SWAPS were widely exchanged at national Girl Scout Senior Roundups in the 1950's and 1960's.

In more recent years, some Girl Scouts describe the types of objects now referred as SWAPS by calling them:

        Special Whatchamacallits Affectionately Pinned Somewhere or Share With A Pal.

SWAPS are still the perfect way for Girl Scouts to meet each other and promote friendship. Each one is a memory of a special event or Girl Scout Sister.

SWAPS Basics

SWAPS should:

·        Usually have a pin (safety pin, pin back, etc).  They can also be bracelets, patches, key chains, etc.

·        Tell something about the givers or their group.

·        Represent the givers' country, community, or local Girl Scout council.  Try to include your troop number, location, and possibly the event.

·        Represent the event they are attending.

Tips for SWAPS Givers

Girls should:

·        Think about the kind of SWAP they would like to receive from someone else.

·        Try not to spend a lot of money. Consider making something from donated or recycled material.

·        Be creative, and take time to make hand-crafted SWAPS.

·        Try to have one SWAP for each event participant and staff member.

·        Plan ahead so there's time to make the SWAPS.

·        Make SWAPS that can be worn, used, or displayed.

·        Ask their group or service unit for help, if needed, in putting SWAPS together.

·        Make swaps portable. Remember: SWAPS must be carried or shipped ahead to the event, where other girls will be carrying them away.

What to Do With SWAPS

Girls can:

·        Start a collection of SWAPS.

·        Put pins and patches on a hat or jacket.

·        Start a council best-of-SWAPS collection.

SWAP Safety and Etiquette

Girls should:            

·        Never refuse to swap with another person.

·        Always accept with a smile.  Don’t forget to say Thank You.

·        Swap face-to-face.

·        Avoid using glass and sharp objects in SWAPS.

·        Avoid using food products.

·        SWAPS for keeps should be kept separately from those you wish to trade.

·        Have a few extra in case some girls don’t have any to trade.