University of Wisconsin - Extension

Young people know a lot about communications technology, but real communication has more to do with what's going on between people who have things to say to one another than with the technology they use for doing it.

"Learning to communicate effectively with others is one of the most important of all life skills," said Trisha Day, co-author of a new 4-H project curriculum on communications. It's a skill that doesn't just come automatically, she adds, because the values, attitudes, abilities and behaviors that make for good communicating aren't always easy to put into practice.

The new communications curriculum is called "Building Bridges - Reaching People Through Communication." It includes the following resources and projects for youth:

A handbook for public speakers including sections on organizing and researching, writing and presenting speeches; improving oral delivery; and coping with stress and stage fright.

An oral history project that encourages young people to learn from older family members and community elders. The materials include information about interviewing and listening skills and suggestions for creating ways to preserve the information that is gathered.

A creative writing project filled with ideas and suggestions --tips for having fun with poetry; suggestions for journals and diaries; creative ideas for e-mail users and other projects that stress creativity and self-expression.

A reading-for-fun project that encourages youth to organize a book discussion group to work on special projects and creative activities based on books members are reading.

Resources for families in the curriculum include a set of activities, projects and games that encourage families to pay attention to each other, and a public speaking manual for parents that complements the youth public speakers guide.

The curriculum also includes materials and information about communications activities - games, exercises, and skits -- for learning about interpersonal communication skills; relationships; conflict resolution and public speaking.

To learn more about 4-H programs in communications, please contact Trisha Day, 608 262-3404, patricia.day@ces.uwex.edu or the 4-H youth development agent at your county University of Wisconsin-Extension office.