Essential Elements of 4-H Youth Development
Head/Independence
Youth need to know that they are able to influence people and events through decision making and action. 4-H leadership and project opportunities help youth mature in self-discipline and responsibility and learn to understand themselves better.
Heart/Belonging
Youth need to know they are cared about by others and feel a sense of connection to others in the group. 4-H gives youth the opportunity to feel safe physically and emotionally while actively participating in a group.
Hands/Generosity
Youth need to feel their lives have meaning and purpose. By exploring 4-H community service and citizenship activities, youth can connect to communities and learn to value and give back to others,
Health/Mastery
Youth need to feel and believe that they are capable of solving problems and meeting challenges to develop their self-confidence. By exploring 4-H projects and activities, youth gain skills, and are more equipped to make positive career and life choices.
Independence, Belonging, Generosity, and Mastery are the four essential needs identified on the Circle of Courage, a graphic symbol of the Native-American child-rearing philosophy highlighted in the facilitator's guide "Reclaiming Youth at Risk: Our Hope for the Future".
