It's disheartening to hear that some people are being rude to older Girl Scouts when they are selling cookies or engaging in other activities. It's essential to remember that people's behaviors and attitudes can stem from various factors, but that doesn't justify being disrespectful or hurtful.
If older Girl Scouts encounter negative comments or face challenges while selling cookies, here are some ways they can respond:
Stay Confident: Encourage the girls to maintain their confidence and belief in the value of what they are doing. Selling cookies not only supports their troop and organization but also helps them develop important skills like communication, goal-setting, and entrepreneurship.
Educate and Advocate: Sometimes, people may not fully understand the purpose and benefits of Girl Scout cookie sales. The girls can politely explain the goals of their organization, the positive impact of cookie sales, and how the proceeds contribute to various community projects and initiatives.
Respond with Kindness: When faced with rude comments, it's essential to respond with kindness and respect. The girls can choose to thank the person for their feedback and share their perspective calmly and politely.
Seek Support: Encourage the girls to reach out to their troop leaders, parents, or other trusted adults if they encounter negativity or feel discouraged. Supportive adults can offer advice, encouragement, and guidance on how to handle such situations effectively.
Focus on the Positive: Remind the girls of the many positive interactions and support they receive during their cookie-selling efforts. Emphasize the importance of valuing those positive experiences and not allowing negativity to overshadow them.
Embrace Growth and Resilience: Facing challenges and learning to handle difficult situations can be valuable life lessons. Encourage the girls to see these encounters as opportunities for growth and resilience.
Promote Inclusivity and Respect: Use these experiences as opportunities to discuss the importance of treating everyone with kindness and respect, regardless of age or any other factor.
It's essential for parents, troop leaders, and the Girl Scouts organization as a whole to create a supportive and encouraging environment for the girls. By promoting positivity and resilience, the girls can overcome negativity and continue making a positive impact through their efforts.