Success StoryLearn Grow Eat Go



Learn Grow Eat Go

Author: Mary Jane Little

Planning Unit: Animal and Food Sciences

Major Program: Agriculture

Plan of Work: Youth Development

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome

In order to attain experiences that aid in positive development, it is important for youth to be engaged

learners. Researchers and practitioners have identified core competencies for quality programming

(Eccles & Gootman, 2002; National 4-H Impact Assessment, 2001; Search Institute, 2004). In

addition, Experiential Learning Theory has been applied to a variety of contexts. Although a number of

models exist, the common foundational theme is that the human experience aids significantly in the

learning process (Dewey, 1938; Kolb, 1984). However, it is critical to note that learning is enriched

when educators provide learning environments that allow reflection and application (Enfield, Schmitt-

McQuitty, & Smith, 2007).


Mason, Meade, and Fayette Counties collaborated on a virtual Learn Grow Eat Go program. 4-H agents and Horticulture agents were involved in the planning and teaching of the program. This was a 10 week program that met via ZOOM each Thursday and had supplemental items to go along with the virtual lesson. Youth learned about gardening and got a vast variety of seeds, containers to plant in, craft supplies, and publications/recipes to go with each lesson. The lessons were interactive and we made powerpoints and showed read-aloud books online for lesson material. We surveyed youth and had 22 participants which indicated they were not familiar with either container gardening or gardening outside. From this program youth learned valuable gardening skills, a few new recipes, how to problem solve and critical thinking skills, and met new 4-H'ers from across the commonwealth.






Stories by Mary Jane Little


Kentucky 4-H State Horse Contest

about 3 years ago by Mary Jane Little

A 4-H hippology contest allows 4-H members to demonstrate their knowledge related to equine science ... Read More


Equine Mini Series

about 3 years ago by Mary Jane Little

Sense of belonging is an essential element of a high-quality 4-H program. However, little research e... Read More


Stories by Animal and Food Sciences


Udderly Amazing State Virtual Dairy Club

about 3 years ago by Larissa Tucker

With COVID-19 restrictions still in place it was decided to help youth and volunteers to keep their ... Read More


4-H Country Ham; COVID

about 3 years ago by Gregg Rentfrow

The pandemic canceled or changed 4-H activities in 2020. The 4-H Country Ham Committee wanted to mak... Read More


Stories by Agriculture


Garden Club Grows Healthier Nutrition Habits

Garden Club Grows Healthier Nutrition Habits

about 3 years ago by Tyrone Gentry

With the pandemic having people at home more than ever, there was a greater interest in learning gar... Read More


4-H Livestock Skill-a-thon

4-H Livestock Skill-a-thon

about 3 years ago by Kimberly Lane

Just like everything and everywhere else during the pandemic, the 4-H Livestock Skill-a-thon had to ... Read More