4-H Youth Development
What is 4-H Youth Development?
* To create opportunities which promote positive youth development* To teach knowledge and life skills which enhance quality of life
* To engage young people in the work of the Land-Grant University
4-H Youth Development is an American Idea –
the world’s largest, dynamic, informal educational program for young people based on democratic principles.
7 Million Youth Nationally –
Over 7 million youth, ages 5-19, participate in 4-H Youth Development experiences. 4-H Youth Development is the only youth program, which ties both public and private resources to the single purpose of supporting the positive and successful development of youth.
According to a 2-year study in New York State, young people who participate in 4-H clubs do better in school, are more motivated to help others, and are developing skills in leadership, public speaking, self esteem, communication and planning, and are making lasting friendships. 4-H reaches these youth through a network of 3,500 professional educators and 640,00 volunteer leaders.
Our youth are expected to:
* Participate in learning communities* Determine goals for their own hands-on learning
* Engage in significant leadership
* Perform community service
Life skills are emphasized within the context of meaningful hands-on experiences which require some form of exhibition at their completion. Older youth members are expected to serve in leadership roles shaping the program for younger members.
The 4-H Youth Development Ideals
4-H Youth Development creates opportunities for youth in Mercer County:
To experience INDEPENDENCE :
I pledge my head to clearer thinking …
Youth need to know that they are able to influence people and events through decision-making and action. By exercising independence through 4-H leadership opportunities, youth mature in self-discipline and responsibility, learn to better understand themselves and become independent thinkers.
To experience BELONGING:
I pledge my heart to greater loyalty …
Youth need to know they are cared about by others and feel a sense of connection to others in the group. This “fellowship” has always been an important part of a 4-H experience. 4-H gives youth the opportunity to feel physically and emotionally safe while actively participating in a group. Current research emphasizes the importance for youth to have opportunities for long-term consistent relationships with adults other than parents. This research suggests that a sense of belonging may be the single most powerful positive ingredient we can add into the lives of children and youth.
To experience GENEROSITY:
I pledge my hands to larger service
Youth need to feel their lives have meaning and purpose. By participating in 4-H community service and citizenship activities, youth can connect to communities and learn to give back to others. It’s clear that these experiences provide the foundation that helps us understand the “big picture” of life and find purpose and meaning. Community service projects allow 4-H club members to see that their effort to help others is important and valuable. Youth learn that they do not live in a secluded world, but instead it is indeed a global community, which requires awareness and compassion for others.
To experience MASTERY:
I pledge my health to better living …
In order to develop their self-confidence youth need to feel and believe they are capable and they must experience success at solving problems and meeting challenges to develop their self-confidence. By exploring 4-H projects and activities, youth master skills to make positive career and life choices. To do so, youth must have access to quality research based content and have the opportunity to learn by doing. Additionally, youth need to have a safe environment for making mistakes and getting feedback, not just through competition but also as an ongoing element of participation. Finally, youth need the breadth and depth of topics that allow them to pursue their own interests.
