The seven developmental needs of young
adolescents and how 4-H
assists
in meeting them:
Positive social interaction with adults and peers. Youth identify with their peer groups and want to belong, so they need opportunities to form positive peer relationships. They also have a similar need for caring relationships with adults who like and respect them and who serve as role models and advisors. Clubs provide an opportunity for youth to interact with their peers in a positive environment. 4-H clubs also provide an opportunity for youth to develop caring relationships with adults. How? Youth meet regularly in club settings with their peers and are given guidance and direction by adult volunteers.
Structure and clear limits. Clear expectations are crucial to reassure young people. With clear boundaries, young people know the areas in which they are free to explore. Remember having the feeling that you were invincible? Well, young adolescents often feel immune to risks and dangers so they need structure and guidance. They also need to be involved in setting limits--involved in the process of decision making. In the club setting, youth are given opportunities to participate in leadership roles as officers and club members. Many times, youth are given committee responsibilities. There are clear expectations that accompany these roles which is helpful during a time when it is important for youth to know what is expected of them. Youth are provided with opportunities to set their goals and decide on the steps to take to reach them through club programs and activities as well as individual projects.
Physical activity. Youth at this age experience rapid and uneven growth and physical development. They have a tremendous amount of energy so they have a great need for activity. 4-H club meetings provide a variety of activities in a single setting: business, program, recreation and/or refreshments. Because of our "learning by doing" philosophy, youth become active participants in their own meetings.
Creative expression. Youth need opportunities to express themselves in a variety of ways, through music,writing, games, art, cooking, sports, etc. Exposure to activities such as art, drama, and literature shows youth that others have felt similar ways or had similar experiences. 4-H programming efforts allow for a variety of methods of self expression. Youth who participate in long-term units have opportunities to participate in an incredible number of projects and activities.
Competence and achievement. Young adolescents also need to discover what they are good at doing. During this developmental stage, youth can be exceptionally self-conscious and self-critical, so they need lots of opportunities to be successful and have their accomplishments recognized by others. 4-H clubs provide a safe environment for youth to "take risks" as they practice new social, mental, and physical skills. After all, our philosophy is one of learning by doing. Adolescents experience great satisfaction from having mastered a new skill. 4-H clubs provide numerous opportunities for youth to be recognized for their accomplishments.
Meaningful participation in families, schools, and communities.Youth need to be exposed to situations in which they can use their skills to solve real-life problems. Young people want to know that they can have an impact on the world. Youth desperately need to know that what they do is significant. Through 4-H, young people are given opportunities to make a difference through community service projects as well as club projects and activities. Helping youth become responsible citizens is part of our mission.
Opportunities for self-definition. Young adolescents are at a vulnerable time in their lives and require time to reflect upon the reactions they receive from others. This is a time in which they are constructing their self-image. 4-H club meetings, projects, activities, and field trips provide opportunities for young adolescents to discover themselves. During club meetings, there is time for free discussion with each other and adults.
The Cooperative Extension Service's 4-H Youth Development Program produces positive outcomes for children. Be an active part in the positive development of your children. Help establish 4-H in your community. We will be happy to assist you in establishing a 4-H community-based program.
4-H Is!
