Transcript What Makes 4-H Shows & Events Different from Open or Other Youth Shows?

What makes 4-H
shows and events
different from open or
other youth shows?
Lisa Townson, Extension Specialist, 4-H
Youth Development
University of New Hampshire Cooperative
Extension
Youth Development is our
first priority
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Critical Elements:
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Safe environment –
physically & emotionally
Opportunity for mastery
Opportunity to value and
practice service to others
Opportunity for selfdetermination
Inclusive environment
Engagement in learning
Open/Other Youth Shows
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First priority is often
different:
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Monetary Compensation
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Breed promotion
Skill development
High premiums/awards
Fame/Recognition
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Selling breed stock
Attracting investors/clients
Safe Environment –
Physically & Emotionally
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Age Appropriateness:
Very young children don’t
show large animals in 4-H
Novice classes whenever
possible
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Small class sizes
Helmet Requirement
Evaluate to stress the
positive aspects of project
Opportunity for Mastery
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Showing is only one
aspect
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Quiz Bowls, Judging
Events, Hippology,
Communication Contest
Fitting and Show Classes
Youth are required to do
their own work
Competition
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Age Appropriate
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No high-points/overall
winners for 8 and 9 year
olds.
Don’t keep score for this
age group at Quiz Bowls
Consistency in
rules/regulations
Cooperative Events –
working as a team,
problem solving, service
projects
Opportunity to value and
practice service to others
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Reward for service
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Barn managers, stewards
Older youth expected
to help younger
members
Opportunity for SelfDetermination
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Danish System
Goal setting
Showing is not a
requirement for success
Encourage diverse
interests
Recognize youth for
personal growth
Inclusive Environment
EVERYONE is welcome
Regardless of ability
 Modify tests,
adaptive equipment
allowed, walk/trot
classes
 All breeds/pedigrees
are welcome at shows
 Allow grade animals
 Encourage leasing
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Engagement in Learning
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Youth are partners
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Helping at a show,
sitting on curriculum
committees or fair
committees
Experiential Learning
Methods
Hands-on events