4-H looks to keep youth and teens connected, interested
For the Star Journal
No matter which educational path families choose for this school year – virtual, in-person, or blended – 4-H leaders want to help youth and teens stay connected, pursue interests and develop life skills.
Oneida County 4-H is offering a variety of new programs this fall, including Star Wars-themed LEGO camp, junk drawer robotics, Project in a Box, youth fishing skills classes, and more.
“4-H is helping reduce social isolation by providing ways to belong, which is key to preserving the social and emotional well-being of youths,” said Anne Williams, Oneida County 4-H program coordinator.
With each program offering, participants will have access to facilitation and guidance from a certified 4-H adult volunteer. This is important, according to Williams, as the COVID-19 pandemic has made it difficult for young people to access caring adults beyond their parents.
“One very important factor in developing resilience in the face of adversity is the presence of at least one stable, caring and supportive caregiver, parent or other adult,” Williams said. “Young people need extra support to navigate this new world, so 4-H can help in this way.”
Upcoming Oneida County 4-H programs:
• Project in a Box
For youth in grades K-12. Families can borrow a box so youth can affordably explore interests, including Kitchen Science, Energy, Dessert Decorating, Knitting, Jewelry, Fishing, Camp Cooking, Painting, and Clay Creations.
• Junk Drawer Robotics – Sept. 28-Nov. 20
For youth in grades four through eight. Take home a box of junk drawer robotics supplies and an engineering notebook and receive weekly challenges by a certified 4-H volunteer.
• Youth Fishing Skills Classes (Virtual) Sept. 21-Oct. 5
For youth in grades K-12. Learn how to make your own fishing rig, knot-tying, baiting a hook, casting, catching and releasing, cleaning, cooking, and more. Takes place 4-5p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays.
• Youth Fishing Tournament – Oct. 6-11
Form a parent/child Team. Catch a fish on the rig you made, measure fish and take a pic. Register 5 longest of Bluegill, Crappie and Yellow Perch for awards.
• Star Wars-themed LEGO Camp (Virtual) – Oct. 7-Nov. 25 (Register by Sept. 30)
For youth in grades one through 12. Learn how to solve fun Star Wars-themed challenges, while gaining life skills like self-reliance, creativity, and self-confidence! This is also a fun way to connect with others. Takes place 4-5 p.m. Wednesdays
All registration information can be found online at oneida.extension.wisc.edu or by calling 715-365-2750.
4-H is free to join. Contact Anne Williams, Oneida County 4-H Program Coordinator, at 715-365-2750 or by email at [email protected] for questions.
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