The greatest gifts we can give youth in 4-H go beyond a champion banner, plaque, or even letterman jacket. Confidence in their own abilities is the real reward!
As mentors, it's natural to want to step in and help. For project helpers, the desire is there for animals to look their best, projects to be perfect, and youth to succeed. However, some of the most valuable learning happens when young exhibitors are allowed to take full ownership of all of their projects.
Independence doesn't happen overnight. It starts with age-appropriate responsibilities. Projects look different at every level. This is why there are multiple project levels in 4-H. Cooking 401 has different skills taught than Cooking 101. In both projects, the youth are expected to do their own work. While someone in 101 may be learning how to measure, someone in 401 will be learning the “why” behind the science of cooking. Both 4-H members still have the chance to have a baked good flop or forget to set the timer and burn the food. They take ownership of their mistakes and improve their skills, and remake their recipe.
Youth can have the same learn-by-doing experiences in the barn. A first year member may be learning showmanship skills, and following the directions of someone who knows feeding better. They are still the one that is walking, washing, and mixing the feed bucket every day. In their final year, that member may be considering other supplements for their animal, and testing them out with more independence. They have gained the knowledge to have confidence in a product and try it out.
4-H parent Hannah Martin, who also leads the Edelstein Eager Beavers, says, “4-H has given my kids the confidence to step out and try new things, making them more independent in so many areas. They display this in the kitchen, the barn, the craft room, or on a sewing machine. I am so thankful for how 4-H has helped them.” Hannah’s kids are a great example of the independence and ownership that 4-H can develop in youth.
At the 4-H Show, youth are given the confidence and the background to answer questions from judges themselves. They greet visitors, care for their exhibits, and solve small problems before an adult steps in. All 4-H members are given this freedom at 4-H fairs across the nation. These moments build confidence, responsibility, and resilience—qualities that extend far beyond the fairgrounds and go with them into the real world.
The ultimate goal of 4-H is not to create the perfect project; it's to help youth develop into capable, caring, and confident adults. A ribbon may last a season, but the ability to work independently, overcome challenges, and take pride in a job well done will benefit youth for the rest of their lives.
Photo caption - The 4-H livestock judging team is one place members are given age appropriate levels of independence to build confidence. Kinley, Aleah and Cailyn Martin are all members of the Peoria County 4-H Livestock Judging Team. This spring the Aleah and Cailyn made the decision to challenge themselves and compete
Meet the Author
Kristi Smith grew up on her family farm in rural Princeville, and attended Black Hawk College, East Campus in Kewanee, IL. After graduation, she attended Iowa State University, where she received her bachelor’s in Animal Science. Kristi was involved with the Livestock Judging team at both institutions.
After spending four years working in the swine industry, Kristi realized it was time to come back home to 4-H. Confirming the statement given to her at BHE: “You’re never done, your roles just change.” Kristi looks forward to continuing to work with youth.
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