Engaging Youth
Getting back into the school routine can be a struggle for youth after having so much free time over the summer months. Teachers have quite a challenge at the start of school to get youth engaged in learning. It is important to know that engagement in learning should take place in all activities not just in school. When youth are engaged they are excited about learning.
Most young people gain learning experiences from school or forms of work, many lack the exposure to additional opportunities that will help master skills relevant to being competitive in today’s world. Youth who are involved in the learning process and given opportunities to successfully meet challenges and solve problems are more likely to develop self-confidence and feel they are capable of succeeding. The process of “discovery” of knowledge and finding solutions helps to build competence and confidence.
A 4-H Club is where engagement in learning can be seen. The club typically consists of members of various ages, backgrounds, and abilities. They work together, plan activities and clearly enjoy being together and being involved, especially with community service projects. The members grow and mature as they plan and lead organizational activities and events. Many, by choice, become leaders of the group. The Community Club Leader is the supportive key to the Club by providing youth opportunities where youth are intellectually stimulated and challenged, help youth design real projects that make a difference to others, and create experiences with youth that relate to real life situations.
In 4-H, experiential learning allows youth to learn by being active participants in their own learning. Experiential learning takes “hands on” learning a step further by adults providing opportunities for discussion and reflection that help youth understand how to apply what they learned to everyday situations in their own lives. This allows youth to be at the center of the learning.
With school quickly approaching, it is important to think of ways to keep youth engaged in learning to allow for the best possible learning experiences. Youth need exposure to activities outside of school to gain more experiences. There are a variety of organizations for youth to be a part of in the community. Encourage youth to be involved!
For more information about Positive Youth Development or 4-H, contact Jennifer K. Terrell, District 4-H Youth Development Agent with the Southwind Extension District – Fort Scott Office at 620-223-3720 or jkterrell@ksu.edu.