Fireworks! kicked off its first full year with Meadow Hill GEM School Tuesday afternoon by facilitating an interactive and engaging lesson on the foundation of the outreach program – confidence. A group of 15 fifth grade girls and six cadets explored the concept of confidence, why someone loses confidence, and how one can work towards becoming more confident.

The opening activity leveraged the unique intellect, creativity, critical thinking, and communication skills of the 10 and 11 year olds.  Provided with a wide-array of household objects such as cups, paper towel rolls, rubber bands and binder clips, the girls were challenged with the task to create an object in 10 minutes. Upon completion of the activity, the girls broke into groups where cadet facilitators led an important discussion on confidence.

The lesson concluded with a craft, where students made something to take home as a reminder of the lessons learned. The girls made bookmarks that said “I Am…” and then included words they chose to describe themselves. These words will serve as a reminder of their abilities, validating why they are confident. 

Story and photos provided by the United States Military Academy Fireworks! Igniting Confidence in Girls Program