10 Summer Activities That Help Girls Build Leadership Skills

Summer is the perfect time to weave leadership lessons into fun and engaging activities. Girls learn best through experience, and these simple ideas give them real chances to lead, make decisions, and grow their confidence in a supportive setting. Whether you're running a camp, a small group, or community event, these activities help girls discover the leader within them—one bold, brave step at a time.

Key Takeaways

• Leadership grows when girls are given space to speak up, plan, and take initiative

• Activities should include opportunities for both individual responsibility and teamwork

• Creative problem-solving, communication, and empathy are core leadership skills

• Every girl benefits from seeing herself as a leader in her own way

• These ideas are flexible, fun, and perfect for summer programs of any size

1. Daily Leadership Roles
Assign rotating leadership roles like timekeeper, group greeter, activity helper, or discussion leader. Girls learn responsibility and teamwork without pressure.

2. Team Challenge Building
Create fun problem-solving games like building the tallest tower with random materials or navigating an obstacle course blindfolded with a partner’s guidance. Let girls take turns leading their teams.

3. Plan and Lead a Game Day
Let small groups plan a full afternoon of activities for the rest of the group. From scheduling to explaining rules, this builds ownership and collaboration.

4. Passion Project Time
Offer space for girls to lead short workshops or activities based on something they love—like yoga, drawing, or storytelling. Everyone has something to teach.

5. “What Would You Do?” Circles
Present real-life dilemmas and let girls take turns leading a discussion about how they would respond. Build empathy and critical thinking together.

6. Community Kindness Mission
Have the group brainstorm, plan, and carry out a service project. From idea to execution, they take the lead and experience the impact they can make.

7. Role Model Interviews
Invite local female leaders or older girls to share their stories. Let campers prepare questions, host the “interview,” and lead the conversation.

8. Empowerment Event Planning
Challenge girls to plan a mini-event like a talent show, empowerment rally, or art showcase. Give structure but let them lead the logistics and creativity.

9. Public Speaking Practice
Create a “speak-up” circle where girls share stories, ideas, or lead a quick talk. Normalize public speaking in a safe, encouraging space.

10. Group Decision Making Challenges
Pose fun decisions like choosing the week’s theme or group snack. Facilitate a voting process, discussion, or consensus-building activity.

Want more support creating confidence-building experiences this summer? Explore our FearlesslyGiRL Coach Certification and Done For You Program Kits. They're designed to help you lead with ease, create real impact, and empower every girl in your group to shine. Let’s empower a generation of confident, kind, fearless girls—together.