4-H program using digital platforms to move forward
Due to concerns related to COVID-19, all in-person 4-H programs were cancelled until July 6 this year. All 4-H summer camps were cancelled through August as well.
“There is no more face to face, but they can still do their projects at home, which is one of the things they would be doing anyway,” OSU 4-H educator Jenny Strickler said. “Using the Zoom platform in the virtual realm, using Facebook Live chat settings and several other free resources, we’re being creative using different methods. The advisors can call and text as well to make sure they have what they need to work on their projects.”
Several clubs are meeting on Zoom and have elected their officers, just like they would at a regular meeting.
“The kids were super excited to still have their club meetings,” Strickler said. “It’s nice to have a normal that we can still participate in some way.”
They have extended the project enrollment deadline until Friday, May 29. Anyone interested can still join a club, and advisor training also is online.
“We’re looking at the calendar and considering options to be prepared in case we need to switch it,” Strickler said, “possibly face-to-face events with smaller groups or take videos over the phone or use the Zoom platform. We’re disappointed that 4-H Camp Ohio was cancelled. We’re thinking about some things like camp-in-a-Box or virtual camp.”
Twelve counselors met this week to discusses camp options.
“We’ll see if the kids show enough interest in doing it,” Strickler said.
A selection of Ohio 4-H project books designed for all skill levels are available to download.
“There are 20 project books that have been uploaded to a digital format that the kids can download to use for their projects so that they won’t have to purchase them,” Strickler said.
Project Central is a great place to rate the projects you took last year and learn more about projects you’d like to take. Some of the videos include Why Trees Matter and selecting colors for your quilt project starter video. There also are 50 activities online that are great for Cloverbuds. A sound scavenger hunt and crafts to get you up and moving are available for this age group online as well.
Category: Clubs & Organizations
