For these reasons the Patrol System is the most important element in the Girl Scout Training, and it is, as far as I know, the only step so far made available towards educating girls practically in two points which have long been missing in their upbringing—namely, in the sense and practice of Self-discipline and Responsibility.
How the Scout Training Appeals
From the parents’ point of view Scout work gives character to the girls, also skill at handicrafts; thirdly, service and helpfulness to others; fourthly, physical health and development.
From the teacher’s point of view it provides a healthy environment outside the school, and activities which tend to develop in practice many of these attributes inculcated theoretically in the girls’ lessons.
From the girls’ point of view Scouting puts them into fraternity gangs among jolly comrades and it gives them a smart dress and equipment, it appeals to their imagination in results, and it engages them in an active open-air and healthy life.
Our aim is to give equal chances to all and to give the most help to the least fortunate.
The training applies equally well to girls of all classes and can be carried out in towns just as well as in the country.
Camps
Camping, which a few years ago was looked upon as impossible for girls, has now become an institution in very many centres—or one that has brought the very best results. It is what the girls look forward to with intense joy, and it gives the Captains their greatest opportunity.
Large camps are, for training purposes, a mistake: one troop of three or four patrols is as much as a Captain and Lieutenant can manage with due regard to the health and training of the girls. They may be carried out in tents or in barns and farm buildings, empty houses, etc.