As I learn about country living I’m hearing time and time again that the 4H program is another aspect where country kids thrive. This is a whole new world to explore and learn not only for my sons, but also for this “city chic.” This year I’m jumping in feet first by joining the 4H Board here in our small town. This ought to be interesting!
I’ve been to county and state fairs many a times, but I was never interested in the true meaning of the fair, which is the animals. I had no idea, until I met my husband, the farm kids were the ones that raised the animals that you saw at the fair. They bring the animals they’ve been raising and compete in front of judges in a variety of categories. I’m still learning to this day about the different categories for each animal as well as what a “round robin” is for the farm kids involved.
Backing the trailer back into the pretend barn.
It turns out that the fair isn’t the only aspect of the 4H program, but yet there are many other aspects that make it a great learning experience for all kids whom decide to join. There is “mini turtles” club for kids up to 1st grade, and once you are 2nd and up you can get into a variety of clubs depending on your interest. My oldest is in the Tractor Club. Showing animals isn’t the only thing at the fair and this year Trevor drove a tractor in front of the judges while pulling a wagon and maneuvering it around an obstacle course. That was so cool!
Learning about cows on Ag Day.
The 4H program also organizes Ag Day for the 3rd graders in our elementary school. On Ag Day the 3rd graders spend the day in and around the 4H building rotating to different stations that teach them about agriculture. I wrote about Ag Day when my oldest son went a couple of years ago, so please visit the post when you get a chance.
I know there are so many more aspects of the 4H program that my sons and I have yet to experience. By being a part of the 4H Board I’m sure I’ll learn a lot about the program within a short period of time. I can’t wait to share it with you from my “city chic” perspective.
Were you or are your kids part of the 4H program in your area?
