2. Be courtious. If a person gives you a swap you don't really like, remember that it may have come with the purest of intentions and the simplest of skills. One good thing to do when you go to a camporee or other event where there is a lot of swapping is to wear a hat and put the swaps you want to KEEP there, while putting the ones you are willing to trade on a shirt or vest.
3. Bring extra swaps if you are going to an event whre swapping is a part of the event. It is always a Girl Scout "good turn" to give to those who have few or none.
4. Swaps should be hand made. Store bought things take away from the concept of the gift. It is not how fancy your swap is, it's the smile that accompanies it when given!
5. When making swaps to mail to another troop, remember to pack them so they will get there undamaged. Also remember to use the proper amount of postage. A gift is not a gift if you have to pay to receive it, or it comes damaged. Also, check with the post office regarding out of the country packages. Some countries have very strict packaging and postal rules. In some countries the package has to have a list of the contents and the package must say "gift" or the recipient has to pay taxes on it.
6. Last, but not least, have FUN swapping! This is supposed to be a fun experience for you and your girls. The girls can learn a lot about sharing and how other troops in other states/countries do things.
1. Find out how many girls and leaders are in the troop you are swapping with.
2. Don’t forget to tell them how many are in YOUR group.
3. Keep the SWAPS light and small. It keeps the postage down.
4. Share how you made the SWAPS so the other troop can try it and pass it on.
5. Always remember Safety Wise when mailing. It is best to use your leaders address or a neutral person, rather than a girl’s address.
6. Acknowledge you received the SWAPS, either via e-mail, snail mail, or telephone. The other troop will be wondering if you received them and whether or not you liked them.
7. When you agree to swap, keep your word. If you do not, you will be disappointing not just another leader, but a bunch of little girls.
8. Have fun! That’s the most important thing for you AND the girls.