S.W.A.P.S.
“Special Whatchamacallits
Affectionately Pinned Somewhere”
SWAPS are small tokens of friendship, typically handmade charms attached to safety pins, that Girl Scouts exchange with one another at camp and special events. Each SWAP reflects something unique about the Girl Scout who made it—whether it’s their camp unit or a memory from a special event. SWAPS are a fun way to share stories and connect with Girl Scouts from across the country and around the world.
Campers will have the option to make SWAPS at camp but are also welcome to bring SWAPS from home.
Making Swaps for Camp
(OPTIONAL)
Campers, PAs, and Volunteers are all invited to bring their own SWAPS to camp. Some ideas are to make SWAPS that tie into the camp theme, something unique about yourself, or something cute or fun. If you're looking for inspiration, Pinterest has tons of ideas to spark your creativity!
Tips for SWAPS Givers
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Think about the kind of SWAPS you would like to receive from someone else.
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Try not to spend a lot of money. Consider making something from donated or recycled material.
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Be creative and take time to make hand-crafted SWAPS. (Include directions for making them if it is a craft project that can be replicated.)
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Make enough to trade with everyone in your unit (and more if you want to trade with people outside of your unit).
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Plan ahead so there's time to make them.
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Make SWAPS that can be worn, used, or displayed.
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Ask your unit PAs for help, if needed, in putting SWAPS together.
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Pack your SWAPS in a ziploc bag.
What to do With SWAPS
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Give SWAPS as a thank-you to your unit leaders and PAs.
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Keep SWAPS in a scrapbook, memory box, or shadow box.
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Put SWAP pins and patches on a hat or jacket.
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Start a camp best-of-SWAPS collection.
SWAPS Safety & Etiquette
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Never refuse to swap with another person.
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Swap face-to-face, especially if exchanging addresses or email information.
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Avoid using glass or sharp objects in SWAPS.
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Avoid using food products unless they are individually wrapped.