POWELL, OH (WCMH) — A new school can be an intimidating place, especially for very young people. That’s why a local Primrose School at Golf Village teacher started a program to help empower young girls as they head back to school this year.

“Who children become is as important as what they know,” said Kathy Krohn, a child specialist at the school.

The Brave Girls Project started with a question about a water fountain and a fear of going to kindergarten.

“One little boy was afraid when he was going to the other school that another child would say ‘you cannot use the water fountain.’ This is a time where that little boy needs to speak up and be brave,” said Tami Cheslock, Kindergarten Teacher at Primrose.

Krohn and Cheslock noticed some students, especially girls, were shy and struggling to find their confidence.

“Mainly learning to be brave, use yourself, sticking up for yourself. It’s ok to be strong. We did a lot of pumping our muscles and walking around and let the girls chant that they are brave,” Krohn says.

Through an art project, the girls glued inspirational quotes and their pictures on a canvas board to remind them just how brave they are.

Lynette Burger’s six-year-old daughter Leah started first grade today. Thanks to the Brave Girls Project, this mom has noticed a boost of confidence in her little girl.

“I just love Leah being able to stand for herself and be independent and strong in everything she does. As a mom, I can’t ask for anything else,” said Burger.

This is just the beginning for the Brave Girls Project. The staff here hopes to have another set of girls participate in the fall.