4-H

There is growing evidence to suggest that participation in youth programs benefits young people. Compared to family and community factors, participation in youth programs contributes to enhanced self-esteem, increased school performance and aspirations to attend college, the ability to overcome adversity, willingness to engage in efforts to help others, leadership skills, efforts to maintain good physical health, and involvement in political and social activities in young adulthood (Holland & Andre, 1987; Quinn, 1995; Scales, Benson, Leffert, & Blyth, 2000; Scales & Leffert, 1999). Youth programs provide an important context for the promotion of crucial life skills as well as safeguards against negative behaviors. McLaughlin (2001) found that youth with high levels of participation in community youth programs were more likely to:

1. have good grades
2. rate their chances of attending college as “very high”
3. consider themselves as “worthy persons”
4. express a sense of civic responsibility. In summary, time spent in youth programs is a consistent predictor of youth thriving in several life domains.

Given the potential benefits of participation in youth programs, it is essential that these programs include the elements necessary to promote the positive development of young people. Therefore, this series of Fact Sheets is designed to provide critical research-based information to parents, youth, youth development professionals and others regarding the selection of quality youth programs.

• Overview of High Quality Youth Programs
• Quality Indicators for Out of School Time: Quick Reference Guide
• Information for Youth Development Professionals
• Information for Parents
• Information for Middle School Youth Professionals
• Information for High School Youth Professionals
• Community Connections and Collaborations

The Favorite Food Show Guide provides basic information for 4-H youth and adults to better prepare for this event. Multiple illustrations make this guide very user friendly and information could be used as lessons for 4-H meetings.

The Water Scene Investigation (WSI) was developed by Arizona Project WET for use by local water providers and water educators in middle school classrooms to inspire simple actions that result in real water savings. This guide is the result of several iterations of writing, classroom testing, revision, and retesting. The WSI is a two–day, in– classroom project; the two days are separated by a week to allow for homework completion. To date, the WSI has reached 4,025 students and saved over 12 million gallons of water. Arizona Project WET is a program of the University of Arizona’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Arizona Cooperative Extension, the Water Resources Research Center and the Department of Agricultural Education.

The Water Scene Investigation (WSI) is a valuable tool, effective in many different scenarios, for raising water use awareness and empowering individuals to make their water use more efficient. This guide was written for presenters from businesses, public agencies, nonformal education and the community to engage 5th through 9th grade students in a project focused on water conservation, efficiency and water auditing. One may adapt it easily for non–classroom use, whether that is in community groups or clubs, with youth or with adults.

The WSI is a participatory method of learning where students learn effective ways of conserving water indoors, while developing specific STEM skills. Students utilize math skills by measuring water use before and after the installation of new faucet aerators in their own homes; and then calculate annual water use in gallons per year using mathematical thinking skills. Aerators reduce the flow of water without reducing the pressure needed to accomplish tasks such as hand washing and dishes, so they are a simple, yet effective technology for students to install. By using aerators and tracking water savings, people of all ages can gain a better understanding of how a small investment in a simple technology can save precious water resources over time.

Youth development is the continual growth process in which all youth are invested in meeting their basic personal and social needs to feel safe, well cared for, valued, useful, and emotionally grounded. Scientists have long studied what youth need to be successful and contributing adults. The purpose of this set of fact sheets is to provide research based information to youth development professionals, volunteers and youth on the four essential elements of positive youth development.

• Overview of the 4-H Experience
• Mastery
• Belonging
• Independence
• Generosity

Illness or injury to a show animal may be preventable by following a few guidelines. Providing a clean and safe environment and properly feeding, watering, and vaccinating animals will help to reduce the risks of experiencing illnesses and injuries. Owners should also learn how to identify signs of health problems, such as sudden changes in behavior or appearance, and prepare a first aid kit for use in the event of an emergency. Also, being familiar with emergency treatment guidelines will help owners protect themselves, prevent further injury to the animal, and properly administer care to the animal if appropriate.

"Jean Jems" is a simple sewing project guide for 4-H youth. All projects utilized recycled blue jeans to allow youth to learn sewing skills on inexpensive fabric. Projects advance from very simple to more involved.