University of Wisconsin - Extension

MADISON, Wis. - The start of a new school year also brings a new start to other activities for young people. With so many options, it's easy for kids and their families to get over-committed or committed to things that turn out to be not quite the right choice.

"It's natural to get enthusiastic about all the possibilities for fun, learning and recreation," said Sue Pleskac, University of Wisconsin-Extension 4-H Volunteer Leadership Specialist. "That's why it's important for kids and parents to choose activities wisely, based on the child's interests, abilities and the time available to spend on the activity."

Most of all, Pleskac said, it's important to pick activities that contribute to the development of the whole child rather than just assemble a list of activities to keep the child busy. "You need to schedule down time, too. We all need that time to reflect on what we have learned from doing something and what other things we might want to try."

Children and teens who enroll in 4-H clubs can choose from a long list of interesting projects - from arts and dog obedience training to rocketry, forestry or raising livestock. Some youth want to do as many projects as possible because they all sound so interesting.

But Pleskac says parents, leaders and mentors can help youth choose from among all their options. They need to assess how much time a project or activity will require, now much it will cost, how much adult help they will need and who will provide that help. She said helping young people choose these activities and think through what they have learned from the experience is an exciting role for parents and mentors.

Parents or mentors and young people can use questions like the following to decide about taking on new projects or commitments:

What do I like to do?

What do I already know?

What will it take to learn more about this topic?

What do I need to do to learn this new skill?

Do I really understand how much time and energy this project will require?

Do I really want to work on this project?

Can I do the work involved?

For more information about how you or your child can become part of 4-H, please contact your county UW-Extension Office.