“Experts estimate that 2 to 14 year-olds have sway over $500 billion a year in household purchasing (Calvert 2008).” In other words, adults make decisions each day concerning purchases for their household, but youth have tremendous influence over what parents are buying. The 4-H Consumer Choices judging contest is ideal for helping youth understand the underlying value behind goods and services available for purchase in today’s free market society- a life skill that will serve them well throughout their life!
Judy Corbus teaches financial literacy classes for both youth and adults in Washington and Holmes Counties.
Last week’s post shared some research about how 4-H Judging programs help youth attain workforce skills for the 21st century. The 4-H Consumer Choices program is a judging program that helps youth learn how to study and evaluate the latest consumer products in a friendly, competitive setting. Each year, four topics, or products are selected by subject-matter specialists at UF. They prepare guides for both coaches (volunteers) and youth with background information and sample scenarios to judge.
Judy Corbus is the Family, Youth and Communities Sciences Agent in both Washington and Holmes Counties. She is part of a state-wide team that provides leadership for the Consumer Choices program for Florida 4-H. When asked what inspires her most to work with this program, she shared:
“Teaching 4-H members how to evaluate a product and make an informed decision based on their needs and budget is an essential life skill they will use long after they graduate from 4-H. A 4-H alum, now in his early 30s, who had participated in the Consumer Choices program in my county recently attended my homebuyer education class. He shared that Consumer Choices was the one 4-H program in which he still uses the skills he had learned from it in his daily life as an adult. That testimony really encourages me and validates the role of the program in developing financial literacy skills in young people.”
What products do youth evaluate? Each year, different products are chosen. This year’s products are:
Energy Drinks – Oral Reasons Class (youth will defend their choices to a panel of judges- a great opportunity to begin developing those public speaking skills)
How do youth prepare for the contest? Study guides are provided each year that contain all relevant information about each project. Contact your local 4-H agent to receive a copy of the study guides, or click on the links above to download a guide. Contact your local UF IFAS County Extension Office to inquire about the next scheduled training for youth or coaches.
How do I get involved? Youth may want to explore this topic through a day camp, workshop or as part of an actual team, or even as an individual. Enroll in 4-H online, then Contact your local 4-H agent for the date(s) of the Consumer Choices Contest, workshop or day camp in your area. If you are an adult with a passion for money management, budgeting, or smart shopping, consider serving as a coach for a team or a speaker for a day camp or workshop. To get started, contact your local office or visit http://florida4h.org.
Youth competing at the North Florida Fair Horticulture Judging Contest. Photo credit: UF IFAS Leon County 4-H
For parents who want their child to be prepared for the 21st century workforce, participating in a 4-H judging team may be the answer. Several universities have recently published studies on the impacts 4-H judging teams have had on workforce readiness. The University of Georgia surveyed over 1,300 4-H alumni who reported that judging programs helped them develop confidence and communication and decision making skills (McCann & McCann 1992). A 2005 University of Idaho study found that 97% of alumni indicated that their 4-H judging experience positively influenced their personal success as adults (Nash & Sant, 2005). Similar results were found in studies conducted by Rutgers and the University of Missouri. The life skills attained through judging programs are not only sought-after by employers but are applicable to most professions. In addition, these skills are not always taught in school or on the sports field but are intentionally integrated into the 4-H positive youth development program.
Florida 4-H Alumna (and national poultry and meats judging champion) Stacey Warden shared: “I would not be the person I am today if I had not joined 4-H. 4-H [judging teams] helped me learn how to speak in front of others, build confidence and gave me so many opportunities I would not have had otherwise.” One Missouri 4-H alumna shared: “I have had the chance to meet some of the greatest people in the world, visit many different states, and gain ever so vital experiences in public speaking. Giving oral reasons has helped me sharpen my speaking abilities. In today’s society, communication is the key to success (Sheppard 2005).”
Florida 4-H offers many opportunities for youth to be involved in a judging team. While livestock judging may be the most recognized, we also offer judging programs in forestry,
Leon County Master Gardeners help youth practice for the Horticulture Judging Contest.
poultry, land/soils, meats, horticulture, consumer choices, horse, dairy goat and marine ecology. Mastering the subject matter content is only one aspect of the program. Youth work as a team to correctly identify animals, plants, or parts. They also have to learn to make close observations and think on their feet to evaluate the quality of an animal, plant, or product. They master communication and presentation skills by defending their choices in front of a judge (this is called giving oral reasons). The real goal of these programs is to help youth develop confidence, communication and decision making skills that will help them be successful adults in work and personal life later on.
Over the next couple of weeks, we will feature different judging opportunities that will be available this fall at the North Florida Fair. This week, our feature is on the 4-H Horticulture Judging Program. Do you know the difference between opposite, alternate, whorled and palmate leaves? Can you tell the difference between poison ivy and Virginia creeper? Do you know what to look for when purchasing shrubs for your landscape? Youth involved in the 4-H Horticulture judging team do! Horticulture judging is a great way to learn how to correctly identify plants and learn about Florida’s horticulture industry, which is ranked second in the nation and is a billion dollar industry for our state!
Getting started is easy! First, download a copy of the rules and glossary. Begin to familiarize yourself with plant terms so that you can become proficient at plant identification and use of keys. Next, take a look at the online tutorial. There are four modules:
Last but not least, quiz yourself- visit a local grocery store or nursery and see how many fruits, vegetables and plants you can correctly identify! The next opportunity to participate in a horticulture judging contest will be Saturday, November 12th at the North Florida Fair. The state contest is usually held in Gainesville in July in conjunction with 4-H University,
If you have a passion for plants or the horticulture industry, consider coaching or participating in a 4-H horticultural judging team. Together, let’s grow 4-H to help the next generation develop 21st century workforce skills for Florida! Contact your local UF IFAS County Extension Office to sign up as a volunteer or member, or visit http://florida4h.org. Next week, we will feature our consumer choices judging contest.
References:
McCann, J. S., & McCann, M. A. (1992). Judging team members’ reflection on the value of livestock, horse, meats, and wool judging programs. The Professional Animal Scientist, 8, 7–13.
Nash, S. A., & Sant, S. L. (2005). Life-skill development found in 4-H animal judging. Journal of Extension[Online], 43(2) Article 2RIB5. Available at:http://www.joe.org/joe/2005april/rb5.php
Sheppard, L. (2005). Where would I be without 4-H? Missouri Ruralist, October 2005.
Just a few more days until College Football season kicks off! The Gator Ticket Office is proud to announce a special ticket offer for all 4-H members, employees, alumni, as well as their family and friends for the Gator Football game on Saturday, September, 3rd against the UMASS Minutemen! Take advantage of this opportunity to purchase game tickets at a special rate of ONLY $20 per ticket!
Here’s the official invitation from head coach Jim McElwain.
Currently, the Florida Panhandle is in 2nd place for the highest number of tickets sold. The northeast district is in first place by a few dozen tickets. We are close to our goal of selling 500 tickets and if we are able to meet our goal, one 4-Her will have an exclusive on the field opportunity at halftime! It’s not too late to order your tickets- use this link.
Make a Difference Monday is an online volunteer training series.
Most youth have started back to school, and soon we will roll over onto a new 4-H year as well! We are excited to kick off our Make a Difference Monday series next month. Make a Difference Monday is a online training series for both new and experienced 4-H volunteers. This year’s series will focus on the concept of Independence. There are two Essential Elements for Positive Youth Development related to Independence: Opportunity to see oneself as an active participant in the future and the opportunity for self determination.
The first session will help volunteers perfect their processing skills as they facilitate 4-H learning in their club. Learning how to lead youth through the process of learning and discovery can be easier said than done. Sarah Hensley, our state curriculum and evaluation specialist, will provide simple resources and tips so that volunteers can become experts in our Learn by Doing Model.
The second session will really help us fine tune our skills at forging youth adult partnerships. How we as adults see youth sets the tone of our club and county program. This session will help us examine our own beliefs and attitudes towards youth (and how it impacts our success as leaders) and will also help us teach youth how they can have an impact on their own life rather than passively submitting to the will and whims of others. In short- it is about empowering youth to make decisions and prepare them to be leaders to make a positive difference. One of the most powerful ways that club leaders can foster this Essential Element is by engaging youth in the club programming planning. 4-H Agent Karen Miliffe and myself will help guide you through that process.
One of the most difficult tasks for youth is learning how to set SMART goals. For example, this year for my daughter’s very first 4-H demonstration, she wanted to demonstrate how to make home-made pasta. Although that was an excellent idea, I felt that that would be a difficult demonstration for an 8-year old to pull off (to be honest, making home-made pasta is a bit of a challenge for most adults). Instead, I helped her choose a more realistic and age-appropriate goal- demonstrating how to make her favorite batch of cookies. Success in setting a achieving goals gives youth the confidence to aspire to more challenging goals in a safe way. This session, taught by our Positive Youth Development Specialist Dr. Kate Fogarty and 4-H Agent Sonja Crawford, will also help us better understand the ages and stages of positive youth development to guide us as we support different age groups of youth.
Sessions will start promptly at 7 PM Eastern/6 PM Central. You can join at home on our computer, phone, or tablet or if you prefer a group setting, you can contact your local UF IFAS Extension office for the nearest location available to you. More information is available at http://florida4h.org/madmondays.
Where did the summer go? It’s hard to believe that in many counties, school starts next week! I wanted to share a few things that will help make this school year successful for your family. It’s no surprise that success — or failure — at school starts at home. Studies have linked poor academic performance to factors such as a lack of sleep, poor nutrition, obesity, and a lack of parental support.
The good news is that those same studies also show higher test scores for students who live in homes with healthy habits, regular routines, and good communication. What does this mean? Let’s brainstorm on ways you can ensure your child heads off to school this fall with the best possible foundation.
Organization is definitely a key factor to help your child. A student agenda notebook or planner is a great tool, or if they are able to use electronic devices have them use a planning program/calendar. Encourage them to review their assignments before leaving school to make sure they bring home the appropriate books and materials.
At home, remind them to look at the planner instead of trying to work from memory. Establish a place where your child can study daily and do their homework. Be sure it is free from distractions and have school supplies easily accessible. Make it your children’s responsibility to let you know when they run low on supplies. As much as possible, be available during this time in case your child needs help. Assist your child on making a list of all the things going on weekly and break down big assignments into smaller chunks they can do daily.
Have family meetings to be sure everyone knows what is happening for the week. My family usually meets on Sundays. It is a time when we work out transportation, meal plans, extracurricular activities and homework times.
Look for ways to teach your child throughout the day. For example, cooking combines elements of math and science. Use the time when you make dinner as an opportunity to read and follow directions, to discuss fractions, to make hypotheses and to examine results.
Choosing to make schoolwork a priority over socializing with friends is one of the biggest challenges facing school children. Institute a work first/play later policy. With “work first/play later,” kids are expected to get all of their work done before visiting friends, chatting online or playing games. Explain that there will be consequences if this policy isn’t met, and be prepared to follow through. Offer praise for a job well done. Though they may not act like your approval matters, it is still very important and it does motivate them. All children need down time, and playing both alone and with other children is good for both their intellectual and social skills. Eventually a well-developed work ethic will result in a big pay-off. Celebrate their successes. A family dinner out to celebrate a solid mid-year report can boost their spirits and encourage them to keep putting in the effort.
Model good learning behavior in the way you deal with your job and household responsibilities and let your children know that you are still learning. Be sure that you show your child – through your own action – that good educational habits yield great rewards.
Mrs. Ruth Ann Scurry, 2016 Florida 4-H Hall of Fame Inductee
Please join us in congratulating Mrs. Ruth Ann Scurry, Jefferson County 4-H Club Leader and Volunteer, on being inducted into the 2016 University of Florida 4-H Hall of Fame. Mrs. Scurry was one of only five individuals inducted this year, and the Florida 4-H Hall of Fame is the most prestigious award for Florida 4-H volunteers, alumni, and professionals.
Mrs. Scurry was accompanied by one of her sons and three of her grandchildren, representing 3 generations of 4-H!
Inductees are selected by the Florida 4-H Foundation Board. Mrs. Scurry was nominated by Jefferson County Extension Director Mr. John Lilly and Regional Specialized 4-H Agent Heather Kent. Read Mrs. Scurry’s inspirational 4-H Story, featured in last year’s Volunteer Appreciation Week Celebration. Thank you Mrs. Scurry for your leadership and dedication to the 4-H Program!
The 4th Annual 4-H Day at LEGOLAND on Saturday, September 10th. This event is an opportunity for 4-H members and their families to explore the LEGOLAND theme park at a deep discount, while raising funds for 4-H clubs, camps, and other educational programs. LEGOLAND is a great way to have fun with the entire family and learn about science, engineering, and technology. The Florida Department of Ag’s greenhouse is a must-see attraction. You can learn all about Florida agriculture and how we are feeding the nation and world. Just don’t eat the produce- it’s all made from LEGOs! You can also sign up for a robotics class while you are there to learn how engineers design, build, program, and test robots.
The Florida Department of Agriculture Greenhouse is a must-see attraction at LEGOLAND.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Tickets are $35.00/person ($5.00 per ticket benefits the Florida 4-H Foundation). It is completely optional, but you can also purchase add-ons for express passes, parking, and admission to the water park.
Any family that has participated in 4-H is eligible for the discount (this includes 4-H clubs, camps, day camps, school, afterschool, and military 4-H programs)
Youth under the age of 2 are admitted for free
Tickets are only good for Saturday, September 10th, 2016
Tickets must be ordered online at least 24 hours before the event
Use this secure link to order 4-H discount tickets
You do not have to bring your 4-H Membership Card, just bring the tickets you print at home generated by the link above
If you have a 4-H t-shirt, please wear it! We would like to see a “sea of green” at LEGOLAND that day.
You are responsible for your transportation to and from the park, and for making any reservations for overnight accommodations. Many of the hotels in the area offer free shuttle services to and from the park, so ask your hotel concierge. The onsite LEGOLAND Hotel recently opened and is offering some great deals.
If you are driving to the park, parking costs $17.00 onsite, but you can save $2.00 if you order your parking pass online when you purchase your tickets through our link above.
For information about park attractions, show schedules, food, height restrictions, or accommodations for persons with disabilities visit http://florida.legoland.com/. Check out their online Family Guide. If you have toddlers, you may also want to read What to Do When you are Two.
Please share photos of your LEGOLAND experience on social media using #4Heverywhere
These DIY neck coolers are great to help youth learn about sewing AND science!
Even though it is not yet August, the Florida heat is sweltering. Staying hydrated is key, but you can also stay comfortable outdoors with a neck cooler. The neck cooler helps cool the blood pumping to your head and is a very effective way to prevent heatstroke when you need to be outdoors. This project is also a great beginner sewing project for 4-Hers and volunteers! This project is from the online Maker Movement Magazine. It is also a fun way to tie in the science of hydro-gels polymers. Hydro-gel polymers are long molecule chains that absorb water efficiently and easily. They are used in agriculture to prevent soil erosion, conserve water and even soak up toxic spills from our environment. A great extension of this project would be the Helpful Hydro-gel Experiment by Steve Spangler- the 2008 National 4-H Youth Science Day Experiment.
Youth are learning how to measure and cut fabric for their neck coolers with Monica Brinkley, County Extension Director and Agent in Liberty County
Here’s what you need to make your neck cooler:
1 piece of fabric measuring 36 inches long and 5 inches wide
1 tsp of hydro-gels (found in the gardening supply section of your local store)
Thread
Scissors
Sewing needle (if sewing by hand) or sewing machine
Iron and ironing board
Fold the piece of fabric lengthwise (right sides together) and press to form a tube. Stitch a 1/2 inch seam across one end and down the length of the fabric. Turn the tube right-side out and press. From the stitched end of the tube, measure 4 1/2 inches and stitch a seam across to make a pocket for the hydro-gels. On the open end of the tube, use a funnel to pour 1 tsp of dry hydro-gel beads inside the pocket. Next, fold the ends of the open tube inside and stitch securely. To activate the gels, simply soak in cool water. Tie around your neck and stay cool!
Neck coolers can be sewn by hand or with a sewing machine
Did you know that July is National Blueberry Month? Blueberries are in season now, and reasonably priced at grocery stores, fruit stands, and farmers’ markets. Many growers also offer a “pick your own” service which can be a fun family outing. The good news is that this delicious treat has many health benefits. Blueberries are low in calories- only 80 calories per cup but are packed with nutrients. A handful of blueberries satisfy the recommended intake of dietary fiber. They are also high in vitamin C- one serving provides 25% of your daily requirement. Blueberries are also high in manganese, which helps the body process cholesterol and nutrients such as carbohydrates and protein.
Blueberries are a native North American plant, and it was only within the last 100 years that we have been able to grow them commercially. All thanks to Elizabeth White, the daughter of a New Jersey farmer, teamed up with USDA botanist Frederick Coville to domesticate the blueberry. They spent years identifying blueberry plants with desirable qualities for cultivation. They harvested and sold the first cultivated crop of blueberries in 1916- exactly 100 years ago! Until 20 years ago, blueberries could only be grown in northern climates like New Jersey, Maine, and Michigan. Thanks to the University of Florida, southern blueberry cultivars were developed through research that don’t require as many chilling hours and bear more fruit. Although Florida is not currently the leading producer of blueberries, we are quickly catching up with 25 million pounds produced annually!
Fun Facts about Blueberries:
Blueberries are relatives of the rhododendron family
The perfect blueberry should have a “dusty’ appearance
Don’t wash your blueberries until you are ready to eat them (washing speeds up the spoiling process).
To freeze blueberries, place them unwashed, on a cookie sheet and flash freeze. Then place them in quart-size freezer bags to use later in smoothies, crumbles, cobblers, or ice cream.
Recent studies show that blueberries may have the potential to aid in memory loss, vision loss and even slow down the aging process
Native Americans recognized the nutritional value of blueberries and used them for medicinal purposes as well as flavorings
Early American Colonists used blueberries to dye fabric and also to color paint
It’s Fourth of July weekend and time to celebrate our independence with family and friends. This week, we wanted to share with you some tips and tricks to make your celebration fun, yummy and safe! We’ve compiled a list of previous posts that you might want to reference for this weekend:
“Experts estimate that 2 to 14 year-olds have sway over $500 billion a year in household purchasing (Calvert 2008).” In other words, adults make decisions each day concerning purchases for their household, but youth have tremendous influence over what parents are buying. The 4-H Consumer Choices judging contest is ideal for helping youth understand the underlying value behind goods and services available for purchase in today’s free market society- a life skill that will serve them well throughout their life!
The 4th Annual 4-H Day at LEGOLAND on Saturday, September 10th. This event is an opportunity for 4-H members and their families to explore the LEGOLAND theme park at a deep discount, while raising funds for 4-H clubs, camps, and other educational programs. LEGOLAND is a great way to have fun with the entire family and learn about science, engineering, and technology. The Florida Department of Ag’s greenhouse is a must-see attraction. You can learn all about Florida agriculture and how we are feeding the nation and world. Just don’t eat the produce- it’s all made from LEGOs! You can also sign up for a robotics class while you are there to learn how engineers design, build, program, and test robots.
