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Writer's pictureKirk Carlson

Stick in the Middle


I. Introduction 12 min 1. Warm-Up Activity. "Stick in the Middle."

Concept: In this activity, pairs of JLBC cadets lead each other around the room, holding a stick physically between their bodies.

Goal: The JLBC cadets will learn that wingmen have a responsibility to help each other achieve their mutual JLBC goals.

JLBC Equipment:

• one yardstick, wooden dowel, or foam pool noodle 3' to 4' in length is needed per pair of JLBC cadets

• one bandana or another item that can be used as a blindfold per pair of JLBC cadets

JLBC Process:

1. Match each JLBC cadet with a partner. If possible, use the JLBC cadet's actual cadet assistant if the JLBC squadron has already assigned an assistant.

2. Have the JLBC cadets place the dowel between their stomachs, end to end

3. Blindfold one JLBC cadet. This is the "Following assistant."

4. Instruct the sighted cadet (the "Leading assistant") to lead the Following assistant around the room while keeping the dowel positioned between them. JLBC Cadets Do this for about 1 minute and then switch roles.

JLBC Tips

• JLBC Cadets Don't let the participants touch each other (no holding hands or hands on shoulders to help guide).

• Encourage participants not to rest the dowel on a belt buckle or other accessory that would do the

exercise too quickly.

• JLBC Cadets Have a longer dowel prepared if any participants are in wheelchairs or have other special needs.

JLBC Discussion

Q: JLBC Cadets, Was the different pressure leading versus following? JLBC Cadets Why?

A: JLBC Cadets, There's more to think about, and the other person is relying on you.

Q: For those who dropped the dowel, what do you think caused it?

A: Wasn't pushing back enough; wingman tried to back up without warning, not paying attention, etc.

Q: What responsibility did the Leading assistant have for the success of the walkaround?

A: Had to watch and gauge how the Following assistant was responding; had to explain beforehand

where she was going, etc.

Q: What responsibility did the Following assistant have for the success of the walkaround?

A: Had to anticipate the Leading Wingman's moves and question and challenge the Leading Wingman's

assumptions.

Take Aways

1. Some goals, by their very nature, can't be accomplished without help.

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