1. The Essential Elements of 4-H1

2. Understand the Essential Elements of 4-H.2

3. Belonging Independence Generosity Mastery
Positive Relationship with a caring adult
An inclusive environment
A safe emotional and physical environment
Opportunity to see oneself as an active participant in the future
Opportunity for self determination
Generosity
Mastery
Opportunity to value and practice service to others
Opportunity for mastery
Engagement in learning 3

4. 4-H Essential Elements: Overview
Belonging
Independence
Generosity
Mastery
Foundational program features or key concepts
Guide our work with youth in 4-H
Cornerstones
Currently our focus in 4-H programs 4

5. 4-H Essential Elements: Overview
Belonging
Independence
Generosity
Mastery
Apply to a lot of different things that we do
Are complex principles
Focus our attention on how and why we do activities and common practices
Have implications for all that we do in creating meaningful learning experiences for youth. 5

6. 4-H Essential Elements: Overview
Belonging
Independence
Generosity
Mastery
They apply to:
how we talk to and coach youth,
what we focus on in club meetings and activities,
helping youth express their interests,
how youth relate to each other, and
the opportunities youth create for themselves.
We’ll learn more about providing the “Experience” step later today. 6

7. Key Concepts 7 Belonging Independence Generosity Mastery
The Essential Elements apply to all interactions with youth
Foundation concepts which guide youth-development work
Help us focus on why and how we work with youth
Apply to the expressions and experiences of young people in 4-H and throughout their lives
We’ll learn more about providing the “Experience” step later today. 7

8. Essential Elements of 4-H Youth Development Programs: Key Ingredients for Program Success. National 4-H Council.
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4-H 101 Lesson 2: The Essential Elements of 4-H Youth Development
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“4-H Essential Elements of Positive Youth Development.” University of Illinois Extension. <web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/volunteers/pyd.cfm>
“Essential Elements Overview.” Cheryl Baldwin, University of Illinois Extension, Freeport Center. 8