Making 4-H Activities Successful in Arkansas
4-H and Youth Programming
Kyle Sanders
CEA - Agriculture
University of Arkansas Syst. Div. of Agri. Ext. Serv.
Lonoke
Abstract
4-H youth activities are important components of the Extension program in Lonoke County, Arkansas. 4-H members can be involved in many activities ranging from local club activities to activities at the state and national level. Our goal in Lonoke County is to make the “best better.” During 2022 the activities surrounding day camps were taken to the next level as the agents banned together to offer day camp activities that would cultivate interest from members and parents alike. Hunter Safety was offered as one of the educational components for the day camp along with kayaking, craft making, fishing and various other activities. As a staff we rebuilt an aging fishing pier that would accommodate 10 to 12 fishermen. The pier had been rendered unusable because of the decayed lumber. Extension staff rebuilt the pier to bring it back to a usable condition, allowing for many hours of fun and safe fishing. Shooting Sports is an activity that 4-Hers can take part in. The members have the chance to learn about firearms from the safety standpoint while also getting the “hands-on” instruction and safe use of firearms. The members gain knowledge of BB guns, learn how to shoot clay targets, and even try their hands at muzzleloading. Kayaking is a popular activity for the day campers. The attendees are taught how to maneuver the kayaks so the kayaks can be used to the benefit of the campers. Kayak competitions are held to bring the activity full circle and recognize those that excel at this activity. Each agent takes part in the day-camp overseeing different activities. The cloverbuds even get in on the action, as they learn fishing basics starting with safety to the use of rod and reels. Of course, no fishing activity is complete with “wetting a hook.” All the attendees use what they are taught and then we “go fishing.” All children go home with t-shirts, crafts and memories they talk about for years to come and at the end of the day they learn something in the process.
Authors: Kyle Sanders
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Kyle Sanders CEA - Agriculture, University of Arkansas, Arkansas, 72086