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).  Each year, every 5^th grader at the Gallatin County Upper Elementary school collaborates with the Gallatin County Extension Office using the “Leader in Me” program.  In the written reflection,  each child reflected on the 7 habits in “Leader in Me”, both the positive and things to work on for next time. During reflection, one child said she demonstrated Habit 5 – “Seek First To Understand” – by giving many tips for her cooking demonstration. Another child said she demonstrated Habit 7 –“Sharpen the Saw”, as she felt that everyone would enjoy her demonstration of coloring hair. Another 5^th grader reflected on Habit 2 “Begin With the End in Mind”, as they knew what the end product would look like and then created an interesting demonstration around the product. One child reflected on Habit 5 – “Seek First to Understand” as they realized they talked too fast and quiet. After all the 5^th graders presented at the school, they were invited to compete at the county level. This year, six 4-H members participated at the district level and four have the opportunity to compete at the state level.

Communication skills are also demonstrated in the Livestock Club. Children have to do speeches at the fair for Country Ham project, Livestock Club members have to reflect on their project for their record books, write thank you notes to their buyers, and silicate buyers-using three different methods of communications.  

Because of this program, 4-H alumni have come back to say “thank you” as they are more prepared for their mandatory communication class in college  as well as other presentations in other classes.