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4-H raises quality youth through it livestock programs

November 12, 2008|Roy Turley

Livestock programs are one of the most recognized aspects of 4-H, but many people do not know these programs help young people develop positive character traits and become the leaders of tomorrow. These programs introduce many youths to animals, but more importantly, youths learn many life skills through their participation.

There are many ways youths can be involved in livestock programs through 4-H. Owning an animal is not a requirement for participation. Programs offered through 4-H include quiz bowls, skill-athons, livestock judging, projects and shows.

Mentally challenging programs such as quiz bowls, skillathons and livestock judging provide young people with skills they can use throughout their lives. Skills learned through these programs allow 4-H'ers to become more informed consumers, team players, better employees and community leaders, regardless of whether they ever own an animal. Quiz bowls and skillathons are competitions that test youths' knowledge in various aspects of livestock production.

Skillathons test their general knowledge of livestock including nutrition, genetics, disease prevention and equipment. Through participation in livestock judging, young people learn to be more observant, confident and develop effective communication skills. They also learn how to make decisions and logically defend those decisions to a judge.

Livestock projects allow 4-H'ers to get firsthand experience in raising and caring for an animal. This project teaches youths responsibility as they are in charge of caring for another life. As the animal grows, young people can take pride in knowing they helped the animal develop and mature.

Livestock shows can be competitive for some youths and parents, but that shouldn't be the focus. The goal of 4-H is to raise grand champion kids, not grand champion livestock. Participation in shows teaches youths the importance of proper public behavior in a contest setting. Losers are taught to be courteous to winners, and winners learn to accept their award graciously and humbly.

Participating in shows, such as at the Kentucky State Fair, provide prime opportunities for youth to develop friendships and network with others from different parts of the state. 4-H'ers also have the opportunity during this time to educate those who are not familiar with livestock shows about show criteria, animal care and maintenance, and 4-H.

Opportunities are limitless for youth in 4-H livestock programs. For more information on these and more 4-H animal science programs, contact the Clark County Cooperative Extension Service at 744-4682.

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