by bestevez | Feb 5, 2024
September 1st serves as the start of the new 4-H year and the first week of October serves as National 4‑H Week each year. Throughout Florida and especially in the Panhandle, the first month of the 4-H year is full of events, activities, and social media posts to celebrate the impact of 4‑H. Once the start of the new year and National 4-H Week are over however, momentum for the program can ebb and flow. Here are 10 ways that you can continue to celebrate and promote 4-H in your club and county.
- Give Back
Local programs are always looking for resources to continue growing their programs. From serving food, to collecting essential items, to making a donation, 4-H members can help provide resources and serve their communities.
- Wear your 4-H Gear
Nothing says 4-H pride like wearing a 4-H clover. Dress yourself (or the entire family-including your pets) in 4-H green and 4-H gear, available at Shop 4-H.
- Set up Informational Booths
If your local grocery store or hardware store allows, set up a table to share information about your local 4-H program or club. You can display 4-H posters, hand out flyers, or showcase the work of local 4-H members. 4-H has long-standing partnerships with Tractor Supply Co. and Joann Fabric and Craft Stores.
- Highlight your 4-H Members
Share social media posts about your 4-H members and their accomplishments. 4-H clubs, counties, and even the NW 4-H District all have social media pages that showcase 4-H accomplishments. Take to social media to share a 4-H memory, express how 4-H shaped who you are today, describe what 4-H means to you, post an old 4-H photo, or shout-out your 4-H club.
- Become a 4-H Volunteer
If you are a 4-H alum, you might be looking for ways to reconnect with 4-H. Consider giving your time to a local 4-H club by becoming a volunteer.
- Showcase Your 4-H Work at a Local Fair
The Fall is Fair Season in the NW District. 4-H members can submit booths, entries, livestock, and a variety of other things into local and regional fairs. Even if you don’t submit anything, many of our local fairs have judging contests to participate in.
- Prepare for Judging Teams and Competitive Events
4-H has a variety of judging teams and competitive events that are offered year-round. These opportunities are great ways to learn a specific skillset and work on teamwork, leadership, and communication skills. While many of these teams and events are in the springtime, you can start to prepare now to be ready when they start.
- Have a 4-H Reunion
4-H alumni often credit 4-H for the connections they have made, remembering the friends they made and those who they may still keep in touch with today. Gather your old 4-H friends and spend some time together reminiscing on your 4-H experience or recreate your 4-H project together.
- Send a 4-H “Thank You”
We all have a reason to thank our local 4-H leaders and volunteers. Whether you grew up in 4-H, you have kids in 4-H, you are in 4-H, or you’ve witnessed the positive work of 4-H in your community, send a “thank you” note to your local Extension Office to show your appreciation.
- Try Something New
4-H is an organization that helps youth start a new skill or allows them to try a different interest. Do you want to dabble in fashion? Get a taste of cooking? Build a Lego robot? Ride a horse? 4‑H is the place to where all these things are possible.
by lauenc | Feb 5, 2024
Hunting, when approached responsibly, can be a rewarding and educational experience for young individuals. As a 4-H agent dedicated to fostering a love for the outdoors, I recognize the importance of instilling a strong foundation of ethics and safety when introducing youth to the world of hunting. To ensure a positive and educational introduction to this amazing tradition, several key considerations should be considered.
- Safety Training and Ethical Hunting Practices:
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) offers comprehensive safety resources, emphasizing the importance of proper firearm handling, wildlife identification, and safe hunting practices. Educating young hunters about the critical role of safety protocols ensures a secure and enjoyable experience in the field. There are a variety of hunter safety courses available. Visit the Which Hunter Safety Course Is Right For You? | FWC (myfwc.com) webpage to find out what course to see what may work best for your family. If you have completed an online course and have a certificate, you can participate in the upcoming Field Day on November 18, 2023 at West Pittman Baptist Church in Holmes County. Visit the Hunter Safety Registration (site.com) webpage to register or find other courses in your area on a different date.
- First Shot Fundamentals:
Holmes County 4-H has been awarded several grants from the The National Rifle Association (NRA) Foundation. Our Holmes County 4-H Shooting Sports Program includes archery, rifle, and shotgun disciplines. Youth members learn “first shot fundamentals” that will translate to important life skills as they may choose to ultimately participate in hunting opportunities. Emphasizing the values of fair chase, respect for wildlife, and the importance of humane and responsible harvesting helps instill a deep appreciation for the natural world and ecosystem.
- Conservation Education:
Collaborating with 4-H programs that incorporate conservation education can help young hunters understand the vital role they play in wildlife conservation and habitat preservation. Teaching the principles of sustainable hunting and the importance of maintaining ecological balance contributes to the development of environmentally conscious and responsible hunters. This also includes ongoing education and research related to Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in Holmes County and the surrounding region to learn what we, as hunters, can do to help.
- Mentorship Programs:
The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission often organizes mentorship programs that pair experienced hunters with newcomers. These programs, align with 4-H’s emphasis on positive youth development and foster a supportive learning environment. Mentors follow the guidance outlined in mentorship materials to provide hands-on training, impart valuable skills, and promote the development of strong ethical values in young hunters. Visit the Mentored Hunts Registration (site.com) webpage to find upcoming opportunities across the state of Florida.
- Legal Compliance and Regulations:
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) provides up-to-date information on hunting regulations, licensing requirements, and seasonal restrictions. Educating youth about these regulations instills a sense of responsibility and legal compliance, contributing to the cultivation of law-abiding and conscientious hunters.
By integrating these considerations into the process of introducing youth to hunting, we can ensure that they develop not only a passion for the sport, but also a respect for wildlife and the natural world. Together, we can foster the next generation of responsible and ethical hunters who prioritize safety, conservation, and ethical hunting practices in their outdoor adventures. For more information about how your youth can get involved with Holmes County 4-H, visit the Holmes County 4-H (holmescounty4h.com) webpage.
Miah, daughter of the Holmes 4-H Agent, enjoys the opportunity to harvest her first deer at age 6.
Holmes County 4-H Agent, Chris Lauen, introduces his children to a Holmes County whitetail buck.
by pmdavis | Dec 1, 2023
A variety of yummy treats in jars to give as gifts for the holidays.
The Holidays hold some of my fondest memories! Our family would often make special presents for friends and family members. We made things like cookies, candies, breads, and soups that could be shared with others. This can be a fun tradition for your family or 4-H Group to create together!
These gifts usually are not super expensive but can let everyone know you are thinking about them. A lot of times we would make a treat and deliver it along with a container of pre-made mix they could use later to make another serving. That way they know what they are getting and are more likely to make another batch. If this sounds like a fun tradition you may want to incorporate it but remember to be safe while making these special treats. You don’t want to prepare these delights and cause someone to have an allergic reaction or become sick from eating them.
If you like crafting you can decorate bags, jars, spoons, clean ornaments, mugs etc. A bow, ribbon, piece of fabric, dried flowers, sprigs of fresh flowers, holly or pine can make beautiful packages. Remember a little decoration can go a long way and make your gift giving more economical and festive.
Some of our Extension Colleagues from Kentucky KY1 and KY2, Maine, North Dakota and Iowa have some great recipes to share for gifts in a jar, on a spoon or in a mug. Many of these already have premade tags you can download and attach to the item. It also has the individual recipes you can follow and use to make your own special gifts. If you want to make a chocolate cocoa bomb, Maine had the cocoa mix recipe you can use with your molded chocolate! These are definitely yummy treats your friends and family will enjoy!
4-H offers a wide range of volunteer opportunities to fit your interests, skills, and schedule. For more information about Volunteering with 4-H, or to sign up to help youth develop their life skills, please contact your local UF IFAS County Extension Office or visit Florida 4-H Website
by Niki Crawson | Apr 6, 2023
Figure 1. Hendricks, P. (1998) “Developing Youth Curriculum Using the Targeting Life Skills Model”
During the summertime, 4-H typically offers more opportunities for our teen audience since school is not in session as their schedules are more flexible. Because of this, we want to ensure that we are targeting skills that are specific to our teens’ immediate and future wellbeing and success.
In this article, I will discuss why life skills are so important, what 4-H programs already established target, which life skills are most beneficial for our teens and what, when, and how teens can get involved.
WHY DO WE CARE SO MUCH ABOUT LIFE SKILLS?
We know that life skills are abilities learned that help individuals reach their full potential in life. They assist in helping folks successfully handle day-to-day life experiences. We believe they are developed through hands-on learning, activities, and practice.
Life skills are the foundation of 4-H. Utilizing the Targeting Life Skills Wheel (Hendricks, 1998), we connect life skills through 4-H projects, programs, and events to real life experiences based on our Head, Heart, Hands and Health model. By helping youth achieve these life skills, 4-H professionals and volunteers are providing the framework for future academic and employment success, as well as youth thriving and community outreach.
Five essential life skills from the Targeting Life Skills Model commonly developed by participating in 4-H are:
- Communication
- Problem-solving
- Teamwork
- Responsibility
- Interpersonal Relationships
PROJECTS & EVENTS RELATED TO LIFE SKILLS FOR TEENS
Below are just a few 4-H projects and events in Florida 4-H for teens to get involved in to develop and strengthen essential life skills:
- 4-H Tailgating Contest – This program teaches healthy living and the science of grilling seafood, pork, poultry and beef safely outdoors. This program teaches decision making, healthy lifestyle choices, and communication life skills, among others.
- Gator Pit – The Gator Pit is a program open to all teens ages 14-18 in Florida. Youth are taught how to develop entrepreneurial skills through mentorship, competition, and networking to the business community.
- 4-H Legislative – Florida 4-H Legislature provides an opportunity for teens ages 14-18 to experience state government procedures and prepare them for potential leadership in the American democratic process. Youth learn, practice, and defend public policy.
- 4-H University – Florida 4-H University is an opportunity for teens to participate in educational workshops lead by UF faculty, explore potential careers, strengthen interpersonal relationships with peers, and develop critical life skills that will help them become leaders and engaged citizens in their communities.
The Florida 4-H Curriculum Clearinghouse is a list of 4-H resources available, including project curriculum, record books, club resources and other educational publications that meet the standards of Florida 4-H. In this site you can view resources for specific projects. To learn more about 4-H opportunities for teens, please contact your local UF IFAS County Extension Office, or visit http://florida4h.org.
ADDITIONAL SOURCES:
Hendricks, P.A. (1998). Developing Youth Curriculum Using the Targeting Life Skills Model: Incorporating Developmentally Appropriate Learning Opportunities to Assess Impact of Life Skill Development. Iowa State Extension Publication. https://extension.purdue.edu/4-H/about/impact-targeting-life-skills.
Irvine, K. (2019). What are Life Skills? https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/nassauco/2019/02/04/what-are-life-skills/
by bestevez | Mar 10, 2023
Public speaking is a beneficial and important project that all 4-H youth can do, but many youth and adults are shy about getting started. 4-H provides several “low-risk” opportunities for youth to develop confident communication skills. The necessary skills associated with being a good public speaker have always been an important part of the 4-H experience and 4-H clubs are encouraged to foster a positive, learning-oriented environment for youth regarding this subject. Helping young people develop a growth mindset toward their communication skills is one of the top priorities of the Florida 4-H Program.
Why Public Speaking?
Learning to be a good public speaker is something that will be useful throughout a 4-H member’s lifetime. Members who feel comfortable speaking in front of others have a greater sense of self-confidence, a feeling of respect for themselves and others, and generally have a solid feeling of accomplishment. Good public speakers are more apt to do well in a job interview or a presentation in college or in a future career.
Escambia County 4-H member Madelyn gives a demo on bicycle safety at 4-H County Events.
The 4-H public speaking program provides opportunities for 4-H members to learn skills in articulating a message. The objectives are to:
- Develop leadership talents and work toward character development and effective citizenship;
- Recognize the value of obtaining all information on a given topic;
- Encourage careful organization of material to be presented;
- Develop a pleasing personal appearance before an audience;
- Acquire the ability to speak convincingly in public.
There is no “right” or “best” way to speak, except to be yourself and to show you are interested in your topic. It is only when you are natural that you communicate your real self—and all speeches need the personality you can give them.
Here are some suggestions to help 4-H youth (and adults) be at their best when giving a speech:
- Get plenty of rest before you meet your audience. Do not eat much before you speak—this can keep the butterflies in your stomach from bothering you too much;
- If you are nervous, breathe deeply and slowly several times just before you are introduced. Relax your arms, legs, and body as much as possible;
- When you are introduced, walk briskly to the lectern, smile, and look at the audience as though you are glad to be there;
- Stand tall—don’t lean on the table, podium, or lectern;
- Be confident from the beginning—first impressions are important. Be sure you speak loudly enough to be heard by all.
Escambia County 4-H member Reid gives a speech on Scorpions at 4-H County Events
Florida 4-H offers many different types of public speaking opportunities for youth to participate in (and adults to judge!). These opportunities can vary from leading a pledge, to giving a demonstration about your pet, to speaking on stage in front of hundreds of people.
Basic public speaking opportunities in 4-H:
- Becoming a club officer;
- Giving a committee report at a meeting;
- Leading pledges;
- Making a motion.
Advanced public speaking opportunities in 4-H:
- Demonstration or illustrated talk at a club meeting;
- County and District Events presentation;
- Health and Safety talk or skit;
- Food preparation talk;
- Speaking to civic groups and local government about 4-H;
- Teaching a 4-H workshop or clinic;
- Camp counseling.
The signature Spring 4-H speaking event is 4-H County Events hosted by individual county 4-H programs. County Events provide youth an opportunity to share their projects through friendly competition. Youth can prepare for 4-H County Events in their 4-H clubs by giving demonstrations and talks to practice this valuable life skill. Contact your local 4-H Agent to learn more about 4-H County Events being offered in your county.
Escambia County 4-H member Tucker gives a food prep demonstration at 4-H County Events
At 4-H County Events, Cloverbuds (ages 5-7) may participate but are NOT judged. They will receive feedback and a participation ribbon. Juniors (ages 8-10), Intermediates (ages 11-13), and seniors (ages 14+) are judged in their respective age divisions. 4-H County Events consists of the following communication venues:
- A Demonstration or Illustrated Talk is a “show and tell” presentation in a specific curriculum area, using posters, props, and/or PowerPoint to communicate your presentation content.
- The Public Speaking program is designed to give 4-H members experience in the preparation and delivery of a 4-H related speech. This contest requires 4-H members to recognize, organize, and present information on a given topic. The timed speech must be orderly and thorough. 4-H members must acquire the ability to speak convincingly in public, expressing ideas effectively with poise and confidence
- The 4-H Share-the-Fun program is designed to help 4_H members discover their talents, develop them, and have opportunities to share those gifts with others.
- The Florida 4-H Photography program encourages self-expression and allows youth to demonstrate skills learned in the area of photography, including the use of photographic equipment and editing tools.
- The Graphic Design Program gives 4-H members an opportunity to use their creativity and artistic ability to promote their project areas or 4-H program. 4-H members are encouraged to develop their visual communication skills by also identifying locations to display their created materials as a means to communicate with external audiences about the 4-H program.
In 4-H, youth learn by doing, and the best way to learn about giving a speech is to get up in front of others and give one. To always “Make the Best, Better,” encourage youth to give a speech at their next 4-H meeting, in their classroom, or wherever an audience is gathered. The goal of becoming a better public speaker starts with that first speech.
Escambia County 4-H member Gracie gives a speech about her 4-H career at 4-H County Events.
