4-H Educational Programs

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4-H Educational Programs

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4-H Educator Programming

The University of Illinois Extension provides educators who are committed to creating hands-on learning experiences for students. Our 4-H educators in Cook County can present each series at your school, after-school program, or organization anytime during the school year or summer.

Important information to keep in mind when requesting a program:

Each group must have a minimum of five participants.
To better accommodate groups, we may limit each organization to two programs per calendar year.
Due to the high volume of requests we receive, we kindly ask that you submit your requests at least six weeks in advance to facilitate effective scheduling for our staff and volunteers.
- PLEASE NOTE: April-July dates are very popular; therefore, please try to book months in advance.

If you would like to request a 4-H program at your site, please contact our staff below.

Start Exploring Today!

Cloverbuds

Cloverbuds is for kids ages 5-7, allowing them to explore and learn by doing fun, age-appropriate activities guided by an adult volunteer.

Your Thoughts Matter

Learn about mental health, how it affects people, and why it is vital to overall well-being.

LEGO Your Emotions: Joy, Sadness & More

LEGO building can be used in discussions about emotional intelligence and safe conversations for youth.

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Welcome to the Real World

An interactive learning simulation for youth that demonstrates how their decisions and the careers they choose affect the money they spend or save each month.

1:1 Coaching and Mentoring

Coaching and mentoring are crucial for the development of high school students, offering essential guidance and support that aids in their academic and personal growth.

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Health Rocks!

Teens face immense pressures to make unhealthy choices, including trying to vape. This comprehensive program teaches youth about healthy decision-making and avoiding alcohol and tobacco use.

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Forensics for Young Minds

Step into the thrilling world of Young Forensic Investigators, where you can solve intriguing mysteries and examine crucial evidence. Participate in hands-on activities such as DNA extraction, fingerprint analysis, and dissection, while mastering essential techniques that are vital in the field of forensic science.

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The Ozobot Experience

Participants engage in hands-on activities with Ozobots, delving into coding and robotics while enhancing their creativity, problem-solving skills, and teamwork. This interactive experience introduces essential STEM concepts in an enjoyable and approachable manner, igniting curiosity and building confidence in technology.

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Voices of Change: Youth Leading with Purpose

Are you a middle or high school student looking to make a difference in your community? 4-H offers exciting opportunities to build leadership skills, connect with peers, and take action in your community. Step into your potential—your leadership journey starts here!

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STEAM Discovery Series

Students in grades K–12 dive into hands-on activities in forensic science, chemistry, arts, engineering, and coding. This exciting program sparks curiosity, encourages innovation, and gives club leaders the chance to lead engaging experiments while inspiring youth to explore future careers in STEAM fields.

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Leading Together: Families Making a Difference

Parents and youth are invited to team up and take action in their communities! From organizing food drives and health fairs to leading beautification projects, this program empowers families to identify local needs, spark change, and grow as civic leaders—together.

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Kitchen chemistry

Dive into the exciting world of kitchen chemistry, where everyday ingredients become tools for scientific discovery!

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This project uses hands-on activities a

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Leap into Careers

Career exploration for elementary students. Grades: 3-5

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True Leaders: Culture, Power, and Justice

This youth development approach to social justice offers dynamic opportunities for youth to explore their identities, different cultures, new perspectives, and histories.

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State Resources for Illinois 4-H Members and Clubs

Club Meetings

Resources for current club members and leaders.

4-H Member Projects

A variety of projects are offered through 4-H so members can pick the ones that most interest them. Or they can find other young people with the same interest and study that topic with the help of a volunteer that shares the same interests.

Partner with 4-H

Illinois 4-H produces the youth leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, stewards, and builders we need to solve world problems. Many programs can be tailored to meet the needs of youth in school classrooms, after-school programs, community groups, and more