How can you motivate young people to pursue self-directed learning? This was a question posed as part of a Youth Development blog by Nicoke Pokorney.

Read along and share your insights

Regional offering | grades K-6

Virtual

Regional offering | grades K-6

Virtual

Come along with 4-H as we explore farm life!! Each week, youth will learn something new about living on a farm, and create a crafty animal for their barns. Classes are held every Thursday, via Zoom, starting on January 19. Event is free to all 4-H participants! Time is 3:30-4:15 p.m. Open to Grades K-6. https://z.umn.edu/FarmLifeWinter

Virtual

Create your next masterpiece with 4-H Arts & Crafts! Each week, we'll highlight and practice a style of art. We look forward to seeing you there! Registration starts December 6, and closes on January 23. Classes are held virtually via Zoom, on Mondays, and are open to Grades K-5. Cost is free. https://z.umn.edu/WinterArtsCrafts

Brrr! Join us in January to learn about animal life below-freezing! Sessions are available virtually or in person. The session starts at 10 a.m. and ends at 11:30. There is no cost for this event. Registration opens on December 1, and closes on January 11. Open to all Cloverbuds, Grades K-2 who are registered in 4-HOnline. https://z.umn.edu/WildWildlife

Crow Wing's in person session will be held at the Land Services Building [322 Laurel Street Brainerd, MN 56401]

Regional offering | grades 6-9, grades 10+

In person

Registration is now open for youth leadership workshops BLU (for youth in grades 6 - 9) and TEEL (for youth in grades 10+). Both workshops will take place in February and this year's theme is "Seasons of Growth."

Building Leadership and Understanding (BLU)

At BLU, youth in grades 6-9 will have the chance to build leadership skills, form relationships with other youth and learn to work together. Youth will also learn about leadership while connecting to their own personal story through hands-on activities and discussions led by the Minnesota 4-H Ambassadors.

Learn more and register.

Teens Engaged in Emerging Leadership (TEEL)

TEEL is a workshop for youth in grades 10+ to gain valuable leadership skills while connecting with peers from other counties and regions. This workshop builds on the leadership skills older youth have developed at BLU and through their lived experience both within and outside of 4-H. Teens will engage in large and small group discussions. They will also enhance their leadership skills through hands-on activities and discussions led by the older 4-H youth and recent 4-H alumni.

Learn more and register.

Statewide offering | grades K-3

Virtual

Come and learn what 4-H has to offer! We'll talk about what 4-H is, how you can get the most out of your membership, what to expect, and other things you can do in 4-H besides virtual learning. Open to Grades K-6, event will be held via Zoom. Registration opens on Thursday, December 1, and closes on Tuesday, January 10. Contact Nicole Kudrle at vande422@umn.edu with questions.

Statewide offering | grades 3+

Virtual

Youth in grades 3+ are invited to join 4-H Animal Discovery, an exploratory learning series highlighting two animal species: dog and poultry.

This 5-session virtual series kicks off on Feb. 6. Youth can expect fun, interactive lessons, at-home challenges and group reflection supported by 4-H members, volunteers, and staff.

Mark your calendars – registration opens on Jan. 3.
Learn more and register.

Are you looking for work experience in the youth development field?

University of Minnesota Extension Center for Youth Development is offering county and region-based 4-H summer intern positions throughout the state of Minnesota. Each internship will provide an excellent opportunity to learn more about the University of Minnesota Extension and explore job opportunities in 4-H Youth Development. Positions range from eight to thirteen weeks, with flexible starting dates.

A high school diploma or equivalent is required. Candidates must be currently enrolled as undergraduate college students, may not have completed their undergraduate program, and may not have graduated in the spring of 2023.

Candidates must apply online through the University of Minnesota employment site. The application materials will include a standard application, resume, cover letter, and an unofficial college transcript. A link will be provided listing which counties have open positions and allowing you to select your preferences.

Learn more and apply.

The application deadline is open until positions are filled with a preference of candidates who apply by Dec. 20, 2022.

For more information, please contact Stephanie Grimes, Youth Development hiring coordinator at sagrimes@umn.edu.

Access the Yearly Calendar events HERE.