Extension
It Starts With Us
4-H Youth Development
4-H Youth Development
Cathy Toole, Levi Berg
Volunteer Development
Health
Communications and Expressive Arts
Agriculture
4-H Youth Development is part of Kentucky Cooperative Extension. Extension’s mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of Kentucky citizens through non-formal education for the entire family. Extension agents and volunteers take the results of university research and explain it in such a way that different age groups can learn and apply the information to their own lives. 4-H is a youth organization committed to building outstanding leaders with marketable skills to succeed in today’s global society.4-H empowers youth to reach their full potential, working and learning in partnership with caring adults. According to 2014 population estimates (census.gov)there are 233,463 youth living in households in KY in the recommended 4-H age range. Also, according to the Kentucky Department of Education (2014), the graduation rate for Kentucky students was 88.0 %,which did not meet the state goal. Research also shows us developing a strong sense of personal identity, responsibility, caring, compassion, and tolerance are essential first steps toward being engaged at the community level (National 4-H Council).
People, animals and plants are dependent on our Earth’s natural resources. Everything from the air we breathe, to the water we drink, to the soil we use for food production – these resources are vital to our existence. Therefore, it’s important that we care for and respect these resources. Understanding how our daily choices affect our environment, we can conserve natural resources and protect our environment for present and future generations.
Over the last 25 years, the number of stay at-home parents has decreased. Parents have increasingly relied on schools to teach concepts and skills once taught within the family. With societal changes and cuts in school budgets, many schools have eliminated family and consumer science labs and no longer include or have decreased FCS instruction in the curriculum. In nutrition alone, the lack of basic life skills is evidenced by alarming rises in childhood obesity, poor diets of youth of all ages, and an over reliance on packaged fast food. Life choices are often based more on personal desires rather than factual information. Those who seek information often turn to internet sources which may not be based in research. Decision-making may be based on product marketing claims, family tradition, myths, faulty information, and lack of knowledge. Today’s massive health and economic problems are due in part to the lack of instruction in the home by parents and in school through Family and Consumer Sciences classes. 4-H offers projects in FCS which assist youth in becoming responsible and contributing members of the family and contributing members of Kentucky communities. At the same time, these life skills prepare youth for the families they will establish as adults.
Providing youth with the ability to enhance and develop communication skills is of great importance in Kentucky. The development of communications skills is one of the preeminent skills necessary to grow as an individual, a community member and a leader. Using age appropriate activities selected from the approved Kentucky 4-H Communications & Expressive Arts Curriculum, educators can maximize the ability of youth to develop their writing, reading and personal communication capacities. This in turn creates a solid foundation for positive youth development (Jones, K. R. 2006) Strong writing, reading and presentation skills present youth with the dexterity of being good communicators as well as allowing them to form receptive relationships with peers and adults. When young people are confident and capable in presenting their thoughts and feelings they are more likely to accept roles of responsibility in their communities and enhance their contribution to society. This development of internal and external assets, as researched by the Search Institutes “The 40 Developmental Assets” helps to develop youth into competent,
caring and contributing adults.(Jones, K.R. 2006)
4-H empowers youth to reach their full potential, working and learning in partnership with caring adults. According to 2014 population estimates (census.gov)there are 233, 463 youth living in households in KY in the recommended 4-H age range. Also, according to the Kentucky Department of Education (2014), the graduation rate for Kentucky students was 88.0 %, which did not meet the state goal. Research also shows us developing a strong sense of personal identity, responsibility, caring, compassion, and tolerance are essential first steps toward being engaged at the community level (National 4-H Council).
Youth will use scientific techniques, responsible practices and innovative technologies that will positively sustain the natural resources in the home, community and world. Youth will engage in community projects related to natural resource conservation.
Be responsible and contributing individuals and family members.Gain and maintain employment through life skill development. Contribute to a safe, pleasant and productive home and family.
Youth will utilize the skills gained through education and involvement in Extension programs to serve as leaders in 4-H and other organizations; Youth share the elements of the music, dance, drama and visual arts with their community.
Youth become more comfortable sharing their thoughts with others.
Youth will develop into competent, capable, contributing adults as important developmental assets are met through their participation in 4-H Communications & Expressive Arts Programs.
Youth will use scientific decision making techniques to make decisions on a daily basis.
Youth will express themselves to others in group settings and on an individual bases.
Youth have a positive bond with a caring adult who believe in their success.
Youth apply the skills learned in 4-H in other activities at home, school
and in the community.
Youth set and achieve goals through a 4-H program.
Youth will make decisions in their daily lives that positively impact natural resources.
Youth will adopt practices to conserve and protect the environment in their
home and community.
Youth will use problem solving and logical reasoning skills and apply them
to environmental issues.
Utilize and practice life skills in projects and life situations.
Project a positive image and self-confidence.
Practice responsible consumer and financial decision-making.
Practice healthy eating choices.
Make choices that lead to responsible and beneficial results.
Adopt habits and skills that contribute toward employ-ability in the future.
Youth will construct a speech that has a clear introduction, body and closing;
Youth will make a presentation before their family, a group of their peers (such as at a 4-H club meeting),a school or county qualifying event;
Youth will demonstrate an increased level of confidence when presenting in front of groups;Use their communication skills to assume a leadership role in 4-H or other organizations.
Youth apply elements of music,dance,drama and visual arts in creating and performing.
Youth will contribute to self, family, community and to the institutions of our society.
Youth will have reduced risky behavior now and in the future.
4-H alumni will be successful in a global society.
4-H youth will successfully enter the workplace and/or institution of higher learning.
Youth will develop an interest in environmental science and sustainable practices and technologies.
Youth will gain knowledge of the interrelationship and inter-dependencies with an ecosystem.
Youth will identify the natural resources that are used within their home and community.
Gain knowledge and develop skills in Family & Consumer Sciences projects and programs.
Understand the decision-making process.
Gain skills in setting a goal and developing a plan of action.
Learn to read and follow instructions.
As a result of this program,youth will know how to: Research a presentation topic prior to developing a speech or demonstration; Write an outline, including an introduction, body and conclusion for their speech or demonstration; Create a formal presentation, speech or outline using the
written outline; Be prepared to present before their family, a group of their peers (such as at a 4-H club meeting) and a school or county qualifying event; Youth can identify key elements of music, dance, drama and visual arts.
Initial Outcome: 4-H aged youth will sign up for clubs that interest them.
Indicator: Attendance at 4-H club meetings of their interest.
Method: Sign In sheets and observation
Timeline: Attendance at the majority of the meetings
Intermediate Outcome: 4-H aged youth will develop new skills through their involvement project club or special interest activity.
Indicator:Attendance and participation of 4-H members
Method:Observe and question leaders and adults as to how involved project members are in individual clubs and after school activities
Timeline:Throughout the program year
Long-term Outcome: application of skills learned through 4-H project clubs.
Indicator: completion of project work, attendance of out of county clinics and camps, participation in competitions and the success of the individuals. An increase number of items at the county and state fair.
Method: Face to face conversations with 4-Her, parent and leaders.
Timeline: Throughout the program year.
Initial Outcome: Youth will have increased knowledge of leaf and bark identification of trees
Indicator: Attendance and participation at the Day Camp.
Method: Observation and survey
Timeline: June 2022.
Intermediate Outcomes: Youth will increase their knowledge of forestry and the benefits of having different types of trees in wooded areas.
Indicator: Attendance and participation at the second day of the camp
Method: Observation and survey
Timeline: June 2022
Long-Term Outcomes: Youth will be able to recognize a variety of trees in a forest setting and understand the importance of forestry.
Indicators: Attendance, Interaction with group
Method: Observation of leader and survey
Timeline: June 2022
Initial Outcome: Youth will understand what macro-invertebrates are how they affect the wellness of a stream. They will understand watersheds.
Indicators: Attendance at day camp, Interaction with group
Method: Walking a stream and gathering macro-invertebrates to identify.
Timeline: June 2022
Intermediate Outcome: Youth will be able to discuss what makes a stream healthy with others. Youth will be able to discuss where the water from Henry County flows through the different watersheds and where they empty.
Indicators: Discussion with leader
Method: Observation of leader and survey
Timeline: June 2022
Long-Term Outcomes: Youth will understand that the health of the county water supply depends on good stewardship and will work to promote good stewardship themselves as well as share this knowledge with others.
Indicators: Group discussion
Method: Observation of leader and follow up survey
Timeline: June 2022
Initial Outcome: Youth involved in family and consumer projects will learn basic food preparation as well as nutrition, sewing skills, needlework skills, and how to start a business of their own.
Indicators: Involvement in after-school clubs and completion of projects.
Method: Through hands on learning and observation
Timeline: October - August 2022
Intermediate Outcomes: Youth will increase their skill levels by building on previous skills in consumer education projects.
Indicators: The complexity of their project work and the ability to complete the project or assignment.
Method: Face to face conversations with 4-Her, parent and leaders. Through hands on learning and observation.
Timeline: October - August 2022
Long-term Outcome: application of improved food preparation, food safety and healthy eating behaviors, creating a business, and creating garments from needlework skills. Turning handwork into a business.
Indicator: completion of project work, attendance of out of county clinics and camps, participation in competitions and the success of the individuals. An increase number of items at the county and state fair.
Method: Face to face conversations with 4-Her, parent and leaders.
Timeline: October - August 2022
Initial Outcome: Youth will have the opportunity to enhance communication skills through club meetings. They will be able to create and appreciate different types of art through club meetings and creating their own works of art.
Indicator: Participation in the county communications event, variety show, and art club.
Method: Assisted by leader and observation, projects entered into the fair.
Timeline: October - August 2022
Intermediate Outcome: Youth will have the opportunity to participate in the speech, demonstration and variety show. Youth will be challenged to create art work in many different mediums.
Indicator: Leader led activities, observation, and quality of presentations and art entered into the fair.
Method: Observed through participation and mentoring
Timeline: February - July 2022
Long-term Outcome: Youth will have an understanding and great knowledge of how to prepare, and present speeches and demonstrations at the county, district, and state level. They will have the opportunity to perform in the variety show at the county and district levels. They will be able to use their art form as a business.
Indicator: Youths ability to work independently and offer support to younger members.
Method: Observation and quality of work.
Timeline: October - August 2022
LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES:
Learning Opportunities (repeat as needed):
Audience: 4Hers
Project or Activity: 4-H Means Business Club
Content or curriculum: Approved UK, guest speakers, Henry County Arts and Crafts Guild
Inputs: Guest speakers, Arts and Crafts Guild members, leaders, Farmers Markets
Timeline: Year long
Audience: 4Hers
Project or Activity: Beginning and Advanced Cooking Clubs
Content or curriculum: Approved UK
Inputs: volunteers, facilities
Date: October- May 2022 monthly
Audience: 4Hers
Project or Activity: Sewing club
Content or Curriculum: UK Approved
Inputs: Master Clothing Volunteer, facilities, sewing machines
Date: Jan-June 2022 meets 2 times a week
Audience; 4Hers
Project or Activity: Knitting Club
Content: Approved UK
Inputs: volunteers, facilities
Date: Feb-Mar 2022 weekly
Audience; 4Hers
Project or Activity: Crochet Class
Content or curriculum: Approved UK
Inputs: volunteers, facilities
Date: Feb-Mar 2022 weekly
Audience: 4-Hers
Project or Activity: Make It and Take It Sewing Club
Content or curriculum: Approved UK
Inputs: Master Clothing Volunteers, facilities, materials, sewing machines
Date: Meets Quarterly on Saturday's throughout the year 2022
Audience: 4Hers
Project or Activity: Art Club
Content or curriculum: Approved UK
Inputs: volunteers, facilities, materials for projects
Date: October - May 2022 monthly
Audience: 4Hers
Project or Activity: Photography Club
Content or Curriculum: UK Approved
Inputs: volunteers, facilities, cameras, mat board
Date: October - May 2022 monthly
Audience: 4-Hers
Project or Activity: Communications Event and Variety Show
Content or Curriculum: UK Approved
Inputs: volunteers, facilities, awards
Date: March/April/July 2022
Audience; 4Hers
Project or Activity; Woodworking
Content or Curriculum: Approved UK
Inputs; volunteers, facilities, wood kits
Date: Sept. 2021
Audience: 4-Hers
Project or Activity: Rabbit and Poultry Club
Content or Curriculum: Approved UK
Inputs: volunteer leader, facilities, materials
Date: October - August 2022
Audience: 4-Hers
Project or Activity: Livestock Club
Content or Curriculum: Approved UK
Inputs: certified leader, facilities, materials
Date: October - August 2022
Audience: 4-Hers
Project or Activity: Horse Club
Content or Curriculum: UK Approved
Inputs: certified volunteer, facilities, materials
Date: October - May 2022 monthly
Audience; 4-Hers
Project or Activity: Dog Club
Contents or Curriculum: Approved UK
Inputs: volunteer, facilities, obedience course materials
Date: October – August 2022 twice monthly
Audience; 4-Hers
Project or Activity: Shooting Sports
Contents or Curriculum: Approved UK
Inputs: certified volunteers, facilities
Date: October – August 2022
Audience: Ages 5-8
Project or Activity: Cloverbuds Club
Contents or Curriculum: Approved UK
Inputs: teen led with adult supervision, facilities, materials
Date: October - May 2022
Audience: 4-Hers
Project or Activity: Small Engine Club
Content or Curriculum: Approved UK
Inputs: led by adult, materials
Date: March 2022 weekly
Audience: 4-Hers
Project or Activity: Pinterest Club
Content or Curriculum: Items found on Pinterest in relation to 4-Hers interest within UK Approved guidelines
Inputs: volunteer led, facilities, materials
Date: October - May 20202 monthly
Audience: 4-Hers
Project or Activity: Natural Resource Club
Content or Curriculum: Approved UK
Inputs: trained leader, facilities, materials
Date: October - May 2022 monthly
Audience: Youth 9-19
Project or Activity: Natural Resource Day Camp
Content or Curriculum: Project Wet and Wild
Inputs: leader assistance, field trips, materials, facilities
Date: July 2022 2 day day- camp
Audience: Teens 14-19
Project or Activity: Teen Club
Content or Curriculum: Leadership and Community Service
Inputs: leader assistance, teen planning and programming together, field trips
Date: October 2020- May 2022 monthly
Audience: Youth 9-19
Project or Activity: Light It Up
Content or Curriculum: UK Approved
Inputs: Basic wiring for a lamp and create unique bases. UK Approved
Date: Sept. 2022
Audience: Youth 9-19
Project or Activity: Cupcake Wars
Content or Curriculum: UK Approved
Inputs: Youth will learn proper ways to create their own recipes, cake decorating tips, measuring and reading recipes.
Date: July 2022 1 day camp
Audience: 4-Hers
Project or Activity: Jr. Food Challenge
Content or Curriculum: UK Approved
Inputs: Youth will create nutritious recipes that they develop. They will then plate a proper serving size and describe to the group how they make the dish followed by a tasting.
Date: June 2022 1 day camp
Audience: Community
Project or Activity: 4-H Showcase
Content or Curriculum: Showcase of all 4-H clubs during the Henry County Harvest Showcase. Each club will create a booth to promote new members. Allow the community to be aware of all the 4-H programs as a promotional event.
Inputs: facilities, assistance
Date: July 31, 2022
Author: Cathy Toole
Major Program: Natural Resources
When deciding how to best serve his community and fulfilling the project requirement for a 2nd year member of the Natural Resource and Environmental Science Academy Daniel Brown chose to add a natural resource element to the community park. The Henry County Recreational Park is relatively new to the county been established several years ago. It how has the youth league soccer and football fields. It is also home to a walking trail, splash park, Health Dept., and Sr. Citizens offices.
Author: Cathy Toole
Major Program: Civic Engagement
The Year 2022 is looking brighter for many 4-H youth across Henry County. Youth are ready to return to 4-H Clubs and begin projects that have been pushed to the side for the last year and half. Twelve of the 4-H Clubs have started meeting in person again while social distancing and using creative ways to work within the safety guidelines outlined by the University of Kentucky. Next month 3 more clubs will take the plunge into meeting face to face and providing youth with much n
Author: Krista Perry
Major Program: Camping
(This success story took place while employed as the Franklin County 4-H Agent) 4-H Summer CampEach summer, the youth in Franklin County get excited about heading to 4-H Summer Camp! This year was different as our community, state, and country continue to live through a pandemic and summer camp was cancelled the year before. Teachers in the county have shared with the Franklin County 4-H program the excitement and benefits they notice with the youth who attend 4-H Camp when they retu
Author: Cathy Toole
Major Program: Science, Engineering, and Technology
While youth today are very familiar with how to use computerized technology there has been a disconnect with motorized machinery. The Small Engine Club offers Henry County youth the opportunity to get their hands dirty through practical skills of machinery maintenance. Youth meet at the county maintenance garage and learn the basic maintenance and repair of push mowers, riding lawn mowers, weed eaters, leaf blowers, and chain saws. They understand how to use the proper fuel for
Author: Cathy Toole
Major Program: Leadership
According to research, middle school is a time where young people find their place in this world, they are exploring where their strengths and interests align (Fagell. P.L., 2019). Therefore, it is imperative to provide positive experiences where young people may explore the world in a safe environment. Historically, there is a decline in enrollment numbers throughout the middle school years in 4-H programming, Kentucky 4-H hosts the Kentucky 4-H Summit Leadership Conference for middle schoolers
Author: Cathy Toole
Major Program: Leadership
The Kentucky 4-H State Teen 2022 Conference was held on UK’s campus. There were 500 in attendance and eight participants from Henry County. The conference allows attendees to get the feel of what living on a campus is like while developing leadership skills. Teens participate in educational workshops, working with hands on community service projects, and competing for the highest level of honors achievement in 4-H. Of course, there are also group activities that allow tee
