What are the Eight Key Elements to a Positive Youth Development for Ohio's 4-H Teams (clubs)?

Maximize your players potential by using “best practices” based on national research. Strive to include most or all of these Eight Key Elements to Positive Youth Development in your team experiences. Learn how to put into play these keys to ensure a successful 4-H season for your team.

(Hover over the images below to learn about the Eight Key Elements.)

Positive Relationship with a Caring Adult You, as coach, serve the role as advisor, guide, mentor, friend, supporter and/or advocate in helping members’ set boundaries, expectations and goals.	Inclusive Environment Your team creates a sense of belonging, celebrating the successes of all members, encouraging with positive feedback and supporting all members.
Opportunity to Value and Practice Service The team gains exposure in the community by service of its members to others and the community at large.	Opportunity For Mastery Members build knowledge, skills and competence through sequential learning experiences and demonstrate mastery through hands-on projects and activities.
A Safe Environment While participating in the team 4-H experience, no fear of physical or emotional harm is perceived from the learning process, its volunteers, participants or spectators.	Opportunity for Self-Determination Members believe they have influence over their own lives, exercising their potential to become self-directing citizens.
Engagement in Learning The team and members are motivated to learn and create new relationships and connections through participation in a variety of learning experiences.	To Be An Active Participant in the Future Members make appropriate choices for their future that impact oneself in a positive way.