By By Beth Randall / 4-H youth agent
May 23, 2004
Since school is almost out for the summer, youth may find themselves with spare time on their hands. So, what is one to do? Guess what? I have a few suggestions to offer which I have grouped into four categories.
These I classify in the category "Good for you." These are things we tend to put off, but they brighten someone's day. Send a card to a friend or relative you haven't heard from in a while. There are several benefits your English teacher will be pleased you kept up your writing skills over the summer and you will likely put a smile on the face of the person receiving the card. Next, clean your room. You will feel better plus you will score points with your parents. You may even want to read a book. The library is a great place to visit on a hot summer day.
The next category is "creative." Create a work of art. You can paint or draw, write a poem, sew or bake cookies. You could rearrange your room or plant flowers. I have to admit, I really like to do things to express my creativity. I always have several projects underway.
This next category is a favorite of most youth: "Fun." After doing a few things that are good for you, most parents will allow for fun stuff. I can remember that I loved swimming, bike riding, horseback riding and visiting friends.
I saved the best category for last: "4-H." I bet you knew that one was coming. For the active 4-H'er, the summer is packed full of fun things to do. There is District Project Achievement Day, Club Congress, Dairy Day, 4-H Fun Day, Mall Mania, horse shows, 4-H Records (yes, if your record wins it is fun), plus a lot more.
4-H projects allow youth to compete in activities in areas they enjoy such as computer, clothing, horse, livestock, field and stream, and nutrition, just to name a few.
This summer. the Cloverleaf Club for ages 5-7 will meet the second Monday of each month at 4 p.m. at the Extension Office. The next meeting will be June 14 and the program will celebrate June as Dairy Month. I heard that there will be ice cream involved. To register, call the Lauderdale County Extension office.
Mall Mania has become a popular event in our area. It is a shopping education program for youth ages 8 and up held at Bonita Lakes Mall. Youth learn how to select really cool clothes without breaking the budget. This year, Mall Mania will be June 23. There is no cost, but you must register by calling 482-9764.
There will be more fun summer activities as the summer progresses, so watch for details. Remember, 4-H has something to offer all youth.