Projects

4-H’ER:THE CHOICE IS YOURS!

Everyone wants to feel good about him/herself. As a 4-H’er, you can have that feeling of accomplishment that comes from trying and succeeding at something new - whether it’s fixing a small engine, knitting a sweater, or training an animal.

The first step on the road to feeling good about yourself in 4-H is choosing your project. Choose a project that fits you! Ask yourself these questions. They just might help you choose the project that’s just right for you.

· What are your interests in school? hobbies? books?

· What do you and your family and friends like to do when you are together?

· What do you like to do in your spare time?

· What does your home need?

· What did you see at a 4-H display, fair, or show that you thought might be fun to make or do?

· What would you like to learn, to make, to do, or to become?

After you’ve answered these questions, look through the projects offered in this guide and list the ones that interest you. Don’t forget about the 4-H Self-Determined project in which you choose your own interest area and develop a project tailored to your interests.

Talk to your parents and your 4-H leaders. They can help you make a decision and choose a project that matches your interests, needs, abilities and resources: time, money and equipment.

Remember, some projects may not be offered in your local 4-H club if a project leader isn’t available. Most clubs encourage you to take no more than two projects per year.

4-H PARENTS:

4-H’ers need help in choosing projects that are right for them. But once a project is chosen, your attitude and support can make all the difference. Here’s how you can help:

· Listen to the 4-H’ers needs and concerns.

· Offer praise and encourage.

· Help the 4-H’er see the value of “learning by doing” in the project by pointing out the knowledge, skills and values gained.

· Help the 4-H’er recognize accomplishments as project goals are met.

· Remember that reaching personally set goals is often more meaningful than winning ribbons or trophies.

Parents and other family members are needed to:

· Help leaders plan the project.

· Encourage demonstrations, public speaking, and judging activities.

· Assist with record-keeping and financial arrangements.

· Provide transportation and help with club planning.

· Praise the 4-H’er for completion of each learning experience in the project.

Your interest and support are two of the keys to having 4-H’ers feel good about themselves and their accomplishments.