March 13, 2023 |
Photo – 4-H Emblem – Bigfoot99 file photo
4-H clubs in the Platte Valley kept busy this winter with a variety of programs held at the community center in Saratoga.
Head, Heart, Hands, and Health, known as 4-H, is a youth development program focused on hands-on learning and personal growth. During Carbon County winters, 4-H is mainly limited to indoor activities at the PVCC. 4-H Youth Development Educator Emily Haver described the activities provided to younger kids, called Cloverbuds.
Haver said the Cloverbuds curriculum is based around STEM, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. She described this month’s space-based activities.
Haver said the Cloverbuds group is full, but open enrollment begins in October.
Another 4-H winter activity held at the PVCC is horse judging. Haver said the team is made up of kids 8 through 18. Since no live horses can be brought into the community center, Haver said they study using a variety of virtual tools.
The virtual classes teach the kids all about hippology, or the study of horses. Haver said the studying is in preparation for state-wide horse judging competitions.
Last year was the first time Haver’s 4-H horse judging team competed in the state finals. She said the kids did a great job in their age group.
Haver said she takes a hands-off approach with the hippology training. She said her team of skilled volunteer coaches should take all the credit.
4-H shooting sports began this month. Haver said kids practice archery in the gym portion of the Platte Valley Community Center. Once spring arrives, 4-H will offer gun-based shooting training.
Haver said people may think the local 4-H club is focused entirely on Wyoming. She said the organization offers training across the globe.
Haver said to contact her if you’re interested in learning more about 4-H and the benefits it offers. She said 4-H activities run throughout the entire year.
4-H enrollment begins in October. A year-long membership costs $10 if you sign up before December. After January 1st, the price increases to $20 for the year.
