How can 4-H help your family

By Extension Assistant Professor, Tasha Killian 

COVID-19 has changed the way we view the world. We went from a normalized schedule with time spent in various categories to working from home, having school from home, and spending an abundant amount of time with our families. With all that is going on, it can be hard to normalcy in family life and find ways to build connections. One way to help with that is 4-H. 4-H is a youth organization which started with the goal of helping children learn new skills. Throughout the year it has grown into an organization with roles for the whole family. From youth participating in projects to parents being volunteers and supporting their interests, 4-H really is a family event. Sharing activities as a family can build positive family bonds. If COVID-19 has you racking your brain for new ways to have shared activities, 4-H can help you out. Here is a list of some ways you can get involved:

1. Follow your local 4-H program on social media. With so many in-person events cancelled or postponed, following your 4-H program can keep you informed, give you ideas for new camps and crafts, and help you join in on some virtual fun. You can find a list of your local 4-H programs here: https://utah4h.org/
2. Download a Discover 4-H Curriculum and run it from home. A 4-H Discover Curriculum is an easy-to-do guide on specific subjects. These provide multiple activities, games, and instructions which will help your family play and learn together. These curriculum can be downloaded online here or checked out from your local 4-H office. 
3. Support your local fair by submitting projects. Although not every county fair will look the same this year, there are still many opportunities to enter projects and receive ribbons. There are a variety of options to enter from beaded bracelets to plants to artwork. With the changing COVID environment, make sure to call your local office and find out how/ if they will be having a fair.
4. Participate in state-wide programs and challenges. This past week Utah 4-H held a camp with a blended, socially distant version with some youth working alone at home and some working in small groups in their local offices. Currently there is a game design and STEM challenge happening youth can become involved in.
5. Volunteer to lead a club. Although there are currently restrictions involved in putting on clubs in-person, you can sign up and become a volunteer to help your youth in spefic project areas. If volunteering sounds hard, don’t worry, Utah 4-H provides all the training necessary to help you feel confident and know how best to run your club. 

Joining 4-H and being involved in the events that are happening locally and over the state will not only give your children something to due during this time, but it can strengthen your bonds as you continue to share in and enjoy activities together.