How to Start 4-H Computer Projects

4-H is a volunteer youth organization that offers many special projects for youth of all ages. If your local 4-H club doesn't have a regular volunteer serving as the computer project leader or if it doesn't offer computer projects, consider taking on that role. If you have some basic computer knowledge or are willing to learn, you can be an effective leader.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Gather materials to use in your computer projects. Visit the local extension office. Also, locate computers you may use.
2. Find members to join your project group in the local club. Let them know when and where computer project meetings are meeting.
3. Follow state guidelines for 4-H computer projects as you plan your group's activities. For example, a state may require level one computer members to be able to create a website with three active links and two images.
4. Learn how to do the project yourself before you teach your project members. While you can keep the project simple, you do need to know how to present challenges to members in the group who may have more skills. Or, recruit them to help you teach the less skilled group members.
5. Hold group meetings throughout the year. Plan field trips throughout the year as well.
6. Encourage the computer project members to be actively involved in other 4-H projects and to take part in activities such as Achievement Day and 4-H camp. Kids who like to do computer activities sometimes forget to work "face time" into their day once they get on a computer.
7. Help the students complete their 4-H forms as they finish the year. Encourage them to re-enroll in 4-H computer project again next year.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't wait until a week before the county fair to help your kids start their projects.