Promoting Positive Youth Development
Youth Development is defined as an ongoing process through which young people meet their needs and develop competencies necessary for survival and transition to adulthood. Youth development refers to the development of the whole person and is not focused on the single attribute, skill, or characteristic, but rather the mastery of competencies needed for happy and productive adulthood. It occurs from an intentional process that promotes constructive outcomes for young people by providing opportunities, choices, relationships, and the support necessary for youth to fully participate.
In 4-H we talk about this intentional process in relationship to the essential elements that are necessary to ensure optimum development. Those essential elements that are critical to youth development and central to the 4-H experience are:
The opportunity to experience independence
The opportunity to experience belonging
The opportunity to experience generosity
The opportunity to experience mastery
Opportunities to promote positive youth development take place through a variety of ways through a variety of 4-H programs: 4-H Clubs, Afterschool Programs, School Enrichment, Activities and Events, and Camps.
Research shows that youth whose basic needs are met in positive ways are likely to grow into active citizens and contributing members of their families and communities. 4-H helps children fulfill these needs. By combining project activities with opportunities to go to camp, publicly show their work, travel, and participate in regional, state and national events, 4-H provides a framework on which young people can build self-confidence, responsibility, and generosity.
Why 4-H?
Camps
Afterschool
Clubs
Science, Engineering & Technology
Fairs
School Enrichment
Choose Health