|
|
Cooperative Extension Service |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
Agricultural
Experiment Station |
|
|
|
|
|
4-H Programs
Life Skills
Evaluation
Dale Bumpers College
|
4-H AfterschoolWhy 4-H Afterschool? 4-H Afterschool meets the needs of kids 4-H Afterschool programs foster a unique combination of fun and learning that helps youth develop lifelong skills, such as leadership, critical thinking and teamwork. The programs address a growing need for quality after-school programming in the U.S., where as many as 15 million children come home to empty houses after school. Research shows that latchkey youth are at a higher risk for violent crimes, substance abuse, antisocial behavior, poor academic performance and becoming school dropouts. To combat this, 4-H Afterschool programs offer a wealth of research-based, ready-to-use “learning by doing” curricula on a wide variety of topics. 4-H tailors programs to each urban, suburban or rural community, supporting programs in many shapes and sizes, depending on the needs and interests of local communities and the youth and adults involved. 4-H Afterschool helps youth develop vital life skills, such as:
4-H Afterschool connects kids to the University of Arkansas administrative infrastructure for 4-H youth programs across the state. All universities engage in research and teaching, but the nation's more than 100 land-grant colleges and universities, have a third critical mission - extension. "Extension" means "reaching out," and - along with teaching and research - land-grant institutions "extend" their resources, solving public needs with college or university resources through non-formal, non-credit programs. 4-H Afterschool taps into the University of Arkansas’s resources and research to develop curricula, plan programs, and train staff. For after-school participants, the program often opens the door to other U of A connections. Whether kids join their local 4-H club or attend a 4-H camp, both use curricula and resources developed by 4-H educational staff at the U of A Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension offices throughout the state. Benefits for all For young people... 4-H Afterschool provides opportunities to participate in fun, exciting programs while developing valuable skills with lifelong benefits. For parents and family members... 4-H Afterschool creates safe, healthy, enriching environments that enhance young people’s social, emotional, physical, and academic success. For volunteers... 4-H Afterschool offers training so that volunteers can anticipate the needs of youth, understand their learning styles and speak their language as they share special skills with young people. 4-H Afterschool hands-on topics include:
Here is a sampling of hands-on curricula that works well in afterschool programs. Of course, each county is unique so check with your Extension staff to see what they may offer.
Find out more To learn more about 4-H Afterschool in Arkansas, please contact:
|
|
© 2006 |
|
|
University of Arkansas • Division of Agriculture |
Mission
•
Disclaimer
•
EEO
•
|
