Regularly scheduled 4-H programming across the state has been disrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, several Georgia counties have now moved their programming online to allow youth to still participate in valued 4-H learning experiences.
To date, seven other states have shared this series for 4-H or Parks and Recreation online programming.
“Because of the social distancing and the shelter-in-place ordinances, Pulaski 4-H had to do more to interact and engage our audiences,” said Sonya Jones, UGA county Extension coordinator and 4-H agent. “We wanted to continue to do something virtually for the youth and families to stay involved.”
Pulaski County is offering lessons focusing on Healthy Living, STEM and nontraditional learning throughout the week. The daily activities can be completed at home with common household items. The free lessons are designed for youth ages five to 18 and 4-H membership is not required. Extension 4-H staff plan to send out the lessons on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays until school resumes in the fall.
The lessons focus on a variety of healthy living topics such as the MyPlate curriculum, mental health, outdoor activities for families and exercise challenges, as well as offering additional resources. The R.E.A.L. STEM (Ready to Engage Actively in Learning Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) sessions focus on a variety of STEM topics, include experiential activities and are offered every Tuesday and Thursday. On Wednesdays, the WILD (Willingly Initiates Learning Differently) Wednesdays program highlights nontraditional learning, focusing on how youth are learning differently during school closures.
The lessons are currently hosted on Facebook, facebook.com/pulaski.fourh, however Pulaski County is looking into new and innovative ways to share content and engage with participants live while maintaining a safe environment.
If you have questions, contact Jones at sonyaj@uga.edu.
Georgia 4-H empowers youth to become true leaders by developing necessary life skills, positive relationships and community awareness. As the largest youth leadership organization in the state, 4-H reaches more than 242,000 people annually through the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension offices and 4-H facilities. For more information, visit georgia4h.org.