How to Use this Resource

We have developed this educational resource to guide you through the different elements involved in setting up a program for girls. The Manual outlines a start-up process that we highly recommend; it is structured so that one section builds on the next. We recommend that before determining what is useful, read the entire section of each area that interests you in order to understand our logic and approach.

Section 1 covers organizational elements of girls’ programming. We outline our rationale for running girls’ programs and offer many practical elements to think about when starting and organizing girls’ programs. We provide key learnings on the elements of a good program: community building, promotions and communications, legal issues and liability, outreach and logistics.

Section 2 covers the facilitation and workshop design elements of girls’ programming. Elements include ways to create safer spaces; the role of facilitators and co-facilitators; personal boundaries; as well as considerations for facilitation with tips on check-ins, debriefs, facilitating across difference, group dynamics, and intense topics. We also introduce program design and discuss how this is a central component of facilitation.

Section 3 elaborates on a popular education approach to girls’ programming. You will find information on how to develop a program based on the common patterns in girls’ experiences and how to engage in the constant practise of identifying and responding to girls’ needs. We share how and when to introduce new information like statistics or theory into your girls’ group (and where to find it). There will be discussion about how to take action with your girls’ group and ideas for reflecting on your practice. This section is meant to inspire you in creating unique programming for and with your girls and the activities here could be used as a launching pad for your own creativity.

Each section ends with an appendix that contains sample forms, templates, or information sheets on the concepts previously discussed. At the end of the Manual you will find a glossary that explains all the highlighted terms and concepts.