Monroe County 4-H is Zooming into summer

With the school year over, and social distancing limiting typical 4-H summer activities, the Monroe County 4-H program is offering five themed weeks with hands-on 4-H fun. Through videos, challenges, community service assignments, and guided activities, these weeks are designed to help youth ages five to 19 participate in 4-H experiences and keep them learning, active, and engaged. 

The first week was “Horse Week,” with activities centered on horse facts, fun, and food. Participants drew, painted, and colored horse-themed pictures for an art contest. Also on the agenda were food challenges like “haystack snacks,” treats for kids, and “treats for trotters,” horse treats to donate to local stables and horse programs. Youth were also able to help choose the name of the new horse mascot for ROC Animal School. This special themed week wrapped up on June 27. 

Week two, Creative Chefs Week, allowed participants to become better acquainted with their kitchens, with short cooking activities, service projects, and the chance to share videos with other area youth. Creative Chefs Week ran through July 11.

Remaining themed weeks will take place every other week in July and August. Week three will focus on Animal Adventures from Sunday, July 19 through Saturday, July 25. Week four will be held from Sunday, August 2 through Saturday, August 8, and will follow the theme of “STEM-stravaganza.” This week will introduce youth to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) concepts through fun, interactive activities. 

The final themed week, Outstanding Outdoors, will keep kids moving through outdoor activities and reflections on the nature that surrounds us. Outstanding Outdoors Week will take place from Sunday, August 16 through Saturday, August 22. 

It is recommended that youth register for each themed week at http://monroe.cce.cornell.edu/4-h-youth-development/zooming-into-summer-with-4-h. Activities are suitable for youth ages five to 19 years old, and youth do not need to be members of 4-H to participate. Participation is not limited to youth in Monroe County. Participation is free, and youth may register for multiple weeks. 

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