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Kicking off the 4-H year with STEM

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I cannot believe that the month of September is already half over. In 4-H world, the change in calendar to the month of October signals a new 4-H program year. Beginning Oct. 1, 4-H enrollment for the 2022-23 year starts. This is an exciting time to gain new members, to watch our Mini 4-H members from last year move to “regular” 4-H this year, and see new program ideas come to life.

In kicking off our new 4-H program year, we are excited to offer another Computer Coding Club to youth currently in grades 3-5. This will be held 10 a.m. to noon Oct. 18-20 at the Carnegie Museum (second floor). This program is limited to the first 15 youth that register and pay. The cost to participate is $20, cash or check are the only accepted forms of payment (checks made payable to Purdue Extension).

Computer Coding Club will teach youth computer science, programming and game design, using block-based coding. Youth will learn basic coding concepts by making different types of fun and interactive activities. No previous computer experience is necessary. To register, contact the Purdue Extension office at 765-364-6363 or email asweet@purdue.edu. There are only 15 spots available so get registered today! All youth that plan to participate must be paid and registered by Oct. 14.

Know a youth that may be interested in 4-H? We offer Mini 4-H for youth who are currently in grades Kindergarten through second grade. Mini 4-H is free and is a great way for youth to experience an introduction into the 4-H program, including their own set of projects and attend local club meetings. Our regular 4-H program is for youth currently in grades 3-12, with a cost of just $15/child (with a cap of $45). We offer more than 50 different projects for our regular 4-H members and hope that youth find a topic (or topics) that they are passionate about. Once enrolled, youth get the opportunity to learn about other educational programs that occur on the local, state and national level offered through the 4-H program. Towards the end of their 4-H career, youth have various 4-H scholarship opportunities that they can apply for to continue their education.

Help us promote 4-H enrollment by visiting our Facebook page, Montgomery County 4-H, and sharing all of the opportunities and promotional materials posted. Have questions about joining 4-H, how to enroll, or just general questions about what your child can expect? I would love to talk with you and help get these questions answered. Feel free to call 765-364-6363, email asweet@purdue.edu, or stop by the Extension office. I am always happy to share how amazing the 4-H program is and how it benefits the youth in our community.

 

Abby Morgan is the Montgomery County Extension Education, 4-H Youth Development Educator. The office is at 400 Parke Ave., Crawfordsville; 765-364-6363. She may be reached by email at asweet@purdue.edu.


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