A 4-H member is a youth that is enrolled in 4-H Online and has paid an annual membership fee. Members can choose whichever and how many clubs they want to be a part of, compete in events, go on special trips, earn recognition for their work in their project, and are part of a larger network of peers, volunteers, and caring adults. 

4-H members are divided based on their age as of September 1st of the current year.

Cloverbuds: Ages 5-7

Juniors: Ages 8-10

Intermediates: Ages 11-13

Seniors: Ages 14-18

 All 4-H participants, volunteers, members, and cloverbuds are expected to abide by a Code of Conduct, that allows for us to conduct ourselves in a manner that will bring honor to the self, family, community, and 4-H.

Cloverbuds are in their exploration stage of 4-H. If they have a subject that they are interested in we can start the education process in that, however, we encourage Cloverbuds to try a little bit of everything. 

Cloverbuds can participate in County Events, speeches, entering arts/crafts into the fair, trying out judging competitions, attend meetings, complete project books, go to community service events, and so on! There are even special events and day camps for them to attend! Cloverbuds are recognized for their participation at our annual banquet and are a part of the 4-H family. Cloverbuds also have an end of the year report that is very short, simple and encourages them to focus on the fun things they did that year. They can earn another green ribbon for completing this report.

Here in Nassau County we even have a Cloverbuds pledge try-out where they can lead the pledges for our big events!

Restrictions

One of the biggest objectives is for Cloverbuds to participate in cooperative and not competitive learning for this stage of their life. For events where judging occurs, Cloverbuds always receive a green participation ribbon and are not formally “judged”. This is a great time to start building their self-confidence for public speaking or trying a contest.

Florida 4-H also does not allow Cloverbuds to participate in Shooting Sports, ATV or other motorized vehicle projects or programs.

We often have questions about what Animal projects Cloverbuds can participate in. 4-H animal projects have some restrictions and are limited to “lap” animals only like pets, rabbits, and chickens. Cloverbuds cannot enroll in sheep, goat, swine, beef, dairy, llama, ostrich, or horse projects. They can, however, learn about these animals in a hands-off manner like watching clinics, completing project books, or giving a speech. These lap animal projects sill provide an amazing opportunity for youth the learn responsibility, empathy, goal-setting, and more.

What about the Fair?

Yes! Cloverbuds can be a part of the fair, to some degree. Cloverbuds can show up to 5 chickens and 5 rabbits for exhibition only (not judged), enter items in the home arts booth and try out the judging competitions (poultry and livestock) under supervision of their parent or club leader. They are encouraged to help decorate the herdsman areas.

If your Cloverbud enters a “Pee-Wee” animal division that does NOT follow 4-H policy, they should NOT wear 4-H dress.