History for Youth Clubs

Purpose

The Davis County 4-H History Club is a multi-denominational club to give children an opportunity to study United States History and the principles of liberty included in the United States Constitution. Children of all religious beliefs are welcome, and respectful dialogue regarding the beliefs of others will be encouraged. The Bible will be used as a historical record. We also recognize the Founding Fathers of America believed in the Bible and we want to be open and honest about the religious beliefs of those who founded this country. Parental input is encouraged so that we can include the values and beliefs in our class discussions that allow all members to feel respected and included.

What is 4-H

4-H is a youth development program available in every county in the United States! It provides an ideal environment for children to learn history, become engaged in community service, and develop life skills that will help them be a positive contributor to the community they live in. Parents may choose their level of involvement in the 4-H program. You can participate only in the History Club if you choose. However, I would encourage you to learn more about 4-H as the year progresses as there are many opportunities for youth development that will be available to you.

"The 4-H vision is that 4-H wants to become a world leader in helping youth to become

productive citizens and catalysts for positive change to help meet the needs of a

diverse and changing society."

The strength of America is found in the strength of families and communities. By creating a 4-H History club in your community, you are working at the grass-roots level to promote and preserve freedom and liberty for the next generation.

Why 4-H?

4-H provides a solid foundation for the education of youth. Over 100 years of experience and research have contributed to a solid program for educational success including:

Parent directed: Parents work with their children to identify projects and topics that promote family values and satisfy personal interests.
Student centered: 4-H uses a child-centered approach to learning. This means the program focuses on the needs and interests of the youth. For example, 4-H club members set their goals for the year make their plans to reach these goals, carry out their plans, and assess their progress.
Learning by doing: 4-H members "learn by doing". In this experiential learning model, teaching is an interactive relationship between leader and learner. This differs from traditional learning where the leader lectures and the learner is expected to absorb facts. Experiential learning involves the learner with the subject matter in active, hands-on activities which involve children in doing, sharing, and applying.
Whole child learning: the four Hs in the 4H program encourages the development of the whole child – the Heart, Head, Hands, and Health. This includes learning about any topic imaginable, building relationships, acquiring life-skills, serving the community, developing talents, and improving health and physical development. The 4-H pledge is:

I pledge . . .

My head to clearer thinking

My heart to great loyalty

My hands to larger service, and

My health to better living

For my club, my community, my country, and my world.

Individual progression: Children learn and progress at their own rate. They only compete with themselves. The 4-H motto is:

To Make the Best Better

Children are not given grades as they are in traditional school. They are simply encouraged to do their best work with their project, and then to improve on that as they learn more.

The material on this website may be used for 4-H clubs and their families. Any other use is strictly prohibited without prior consent by the author.