Robinson, Ill. - Younger siblings always want to do what their older brothers or sisters do. The Cloverbuds program for ages 5-7 gives youngsters a club all their own, just like the 4-H clubs of their older siblings.
Cloverbuds is an exploratory program that promotes healthy, positive youth development and is a great launchpad into the 4-H experience.
"Kids ages 5-7 are enthusiastic, curious, and creative," says Crawford County 4-H program coordinator April Knoblett. "And they can't wait to be in 4-H, so Cloverbuds is perfect for them."
Youth work as a group during club meetings on projects suitable for their age. Cloverbud clubs can be independent clubs, or they may meet at the same time as a 4-H multi-project club.
Cloverbuds helps kids develop confidence, social skills, decision-making abilities, subject matter knowledge, and physical skills in a safe space that allows for and encourages creativity and play. They are surrounded by adults cheering for their success.
"We currently have one Cloverbud club that meets in Oblong, and one of our 4-H clubs in Robinson recently added Cloverbuds to their meetings," says Knoblett. "But there is a need to create more clubs in surrounding towns, and we are seeking adults to volunteer to be leaders."
If you have a child interested in joining Cloverbuds or 4-H, visit the Illinois Extension website at go.illinois.edu/joinnow. Adults who want more information about volunteering to lead a new Cloverbuds club can contact April Knoblett at 618-546-1549 or knoblett@illinois.edu.
About Illinois 4-H: Illinois 4-H is the flagship youth development program of University of Illinois Extension and is administered through the College of Agriculture, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences. 4-H grows true leaders and youth who are empowered for life today and prepared for a career tomorrow.
About Extension: Illinois Extension leads public outreach for University of Illinois by translating research into action plans that allow Illinois families, businesses, and community leaders to solve problems, make informed decisions, and adapt to changes and opportunities.