Girls Inc. Approach
Who do we serve?
Girls aged 6-18, including youth who are a part of the 2SLGBTQ+ community and/or are exploring their gender identity during their time at Girls Inc.
Who are you reporting to if you aren't sure what to do?
Emily or Mak
Why do we use gender-neutral & inclusive language?
We choose words that help every girl feel safe, seen, and included.
What do we encourage instead of classroom management techniques?
Predictable transitions/warnings, visual schedules, curiosity over control, collective expectations (group agreements), call-ins not call-outs, etc.
What is your role as a facilitator?
Lead activities, create a safe space for everyone, take initiative, push yourself, grow, get out of your comfort zone
What is the Girls Inc. Mission?
Inspiring all girls to be strong, smart, & bold
What is the Girls Inc. dress code?
Feminist "non-dress-code" or Comfortable but professional
What is Girls Inc Magic?
People+Environment+Programming
When is it acceptable to take pictures of participants?
If they have photo permission, if the team lead isn't immediately available, when they are NOT in bathing suits or doing water activities
What is the purpose of having a Junior Leader?
Providing campers with peer mentors/role models, creating opportunities for them to enhance their leadership skills, provide safe spaces for them to stretch themselves & grow
How long has Girls Inc. been providing trusting, mentoring relationships and evidence-based, hands-on programming in a pro-girl environment?
Girls Inc. was founded in 1864 to serve girls and young women who were experiencing upheaval in the aftermath of the Civil War, & has adapted to meet the specific environmental challenges facing girls and young women ever since.
Why do we have a no-phones policy at camp?
Girls model what they see, time for you/girls to unplug, girls deserve our undivided attention, etc.
Why is it important to create opportunities for girls to fail/make mistakes?
Builds confidence, encourages problem-solving, fosters independence, helps them develop resilience & leadership skills, learn to trust themselves, grow.
Strong, Smart, & Bold Outcome Survey
Girls voices matter, they should have a say in the programming their doing, etc.
Why is universal design important?
Everyone should feel valued, accepted, included, able to participate, knowing that they belong and this space was made for them
Why is girls-only programming important?
Navigate gender, economic, social barriers
Explore in safe, pressure-free environments
Advocating to end systemic inequity & discrimination
Etc.
Name the steps to making a report to FACS.
1. Immediately (within reason) let the Team Lead know if you suspect something/something has been disclosed
2. Find a private place to make the phone call
3. Document concerns factually (no assumptions)
4. Confidentiality: only the people who need to know will be involved
5. Inform Lesley that you've made a report
Why are clear, consistent boundaries important for girls?
Builds safety, trust, empowerment, trauma-informed, show kids you care, creates freedom to explore, teaches girls to set their own boundaries, etc.
What are 3 foundational pillars of all Girls Inc. programming?
Strengths-based, prevention-focused, compensatory, evidence-based, age-appropriate, pro-girl, pressure-free, etc.
Experiencing, Publishing/Reporting, Processing, Generalizing, Applying
Name 3 of the 6 rights on the Girls Inc. Girls Bill of Rights.
1. Be themselves and to resist gender stereotypes.
2. Express themselves with originality and enthusiasm.
3. Take risks, strive freely and to take pride in success.
4. Accept and appreciate their bodies.
5. Have confidence in themselves and be safe in the world.
6. Prepare for interesting work and economic independence
What are some common indicators of possible abuse or neglect?
Unexplained or frequent injuries
Extremely withdrawn or aggressive behaviour
Sexualized language or behaviours beyond developmental stage
Lack of hygiene, chronic hunger, or inappropriate clothing
Disclosures or vague statements like “I don’t feel safe at home”
What does the Power of Stop activity demonstrate?
Communicating boundaries, varying comfort levels, using your voice to speak up, personal reflection
Name 3 things you can say instead of "be careful"
What's your plan? Do you feel safe? What is your body telling you? How can I help? Etc.
What is the most important take-away from the past 3 days of training?
No wrong answers! You're going to rock this summer!