Keeping 4-H’ers engaged virtually

Keeping 4-H’ers engaged virtually

When Kansas officials initiated a stay-at-home order, 4-H’ers were challenged to stay connected and continue to actively learn about their favorite project areas. Through Kansas State University’s 4-H program, Youths in Lyon County participated in “30 for 30,” a challenge to spend at least 30 minutes a day for 30 days engaged in 4-H work.

To keep it interesting, 4-H’ers logged their time in a form that was shared publicly so they could compete with their peers. Progress was shared via social media, and youths were able to share their learning by posting pictures and commenting on daily Facebook posts.

Nine of the county’s 10 4-H clubs participated. One-hundred 4-H’ers, some of whom rarely attended in-person meetings or participated in projects, logged 1,700 hours of learning over the 30-day period.

This challenged helped provide support to 4-H members and volunteers and showed that groups can work together toward common goals even when they are not face to face.