What Makes 4-H Shows & Events Different from Open or Other Youth Shows?
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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
Critical Elements:
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
First priority is often
different:
Monetary Compensation
Breed promotion
Skill development
High premiums/awards
Fame/Recognition
Selling breed stock
Attracting investors/clients
Safe Environment –
Physically & Emotionally
Age Appropriateness:
Very young children don’t
show large animals in 4-H
Novice classes whenever
possible
Small class sizes
Helmet Requirement
Evaluate to stress the
positive aspects of project
Opportunity for Mastery
Showing is only one
aspect
Quiz Bowls, Judging
Events, Hippology,
Communication Contest
Fitting and Show Classes
Youth are required to do
their own work
Competition
Age Appropriate
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
Reward for service
Barn managers, stewards
Older youth expected
to help younger
members
Opportunity for SelfDetermination
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
Engagement in Learning
Youth are partners
Helping at a show,
sitting on curriculum
committees or fair
committees
Experiential Learning
Methods
Hands-on events