4-H Parents are Very Important
By Judy Parsons
Parents play a very important role in the 4-H program. Successful 4-H experiences for 4-H youth depend on the active role of their parents. Parents provide the support and encouragement needed for their 4-H youth to complete their 4-H work. Parents are a vital role in fulfilling the 4-H Mission of empowering youth to reach their full potential through youth-adult partnerships.
Parents make sure their youth attend club and project meetings. They also make sure to bring the necessary materials needed for the meetings. They help the other adult leaders whenever possible to help make the 4-H club successful. Most club leaders are also 4-H parents and rely on everyone’s help. All parents have skills and resources that they can share to help all the youth in the club learn life skills and achieve their goals. We know that tomorrow’s leaders are built in today’s 4-H clubs.
Parents are there to guide their youth in project selection. The activities that youth chose help build them into good citizens and leaders of tomorrow. You are building the future by teaching essential life skills that all youth need. Parents are a very important part of this process.
Parents who are involved in the 4-H program with their youth often have a much better understanding how the entire program works. They are then able to assist their youth and other youth in having positive 4-H experiences. This meaningful contribution to the 4-H program can give the parent satisfaction.
Some specific responsibilities of parents could include:
- Provide or arrange transportation
- Read your 4-H Newsletter and know what is going on
- Encourage and reward youth in their project work
- Volunteer to help as a project leader
- Volunteer to help at 4-H events
- See that youth finish projects that they start
- Be a “shadow-helper” by guiding and advising but letting the youth do the work
- Make sure your youth meet project and registration deadlines
- Provide materials and equipment needed for the project
- Encourage your youth in successes and failures
- Make 4-H a family affair
- Be a good sport, help your youth be a good sport also
- Appreciate the success of others
- Support your 4-H Leaders
- If you need help or have questions, ask your 4-H Agent or club leaders
It takes time and commitment to develop tomorrow’s leaders. There is great satisfaction in watching youth grow into their potential and become successful.
