With summer upon us, what better gift to give your children than a summer full of fun and adventure where they can learn and grow with other children? Cooperative Extension, through its 4-H youth development program, offers Summer Fun, or other similarly named summer activities, in counties across the state. These fun, educational and cultural enrichment activities are designed to help children gain knowledge, skills and experiences that will help them become responsible citizens and leaders. These activities encourage positive behavior, and there’s something for all ages, from 5 to 18 years.

Research shows that during summer months, when they are the least supervised, youth are the most likely to become involved in risky behavior. When school is not in session there is more time to have fun, but also get into trouble. Cooperative Extension’s summer programs are a great opportunity in your community to help children develop skills that will last a lifetime. These skills could have a positive impact on future career choices. Children come away with a renewed sense of both self-confidence and self-esteem, and parents are pleased with the new knowledge and excitement that children share.

Contact your local Cooperative Extension Center for details. Find local contact information at www.ces.ncsu.edu. Click on County Centers. Or find Cooperative Extension under local government listings in the phone book. Ask for the 4-H agent.