Modeling the importance of learning is something youth often see when their parents and other key adults get involved in 4-H Youth Programs. The 4-H motto is to “learn by doing,” which often takes the pressure off adult volunteers to be the “expert” in any particular subject matter and this type of learning often means “fun” for the youth as they enjoy hands-on learning. This learning by doing is also known as “experiential” based learning and is the focus of 4-H. By learning the Experiential Learning Model and incorporating it into 4-H club meetings, 4-H volunteers can facilitate a more meaningful learning experience for the youth in their clubs.

The following opportunities are ways for you to learn more and get involved in our expanding, positive youth development program. “Experiential Learning for Leaders” is the theme for this year’s U.P. Leadermete conference April 7 and April 8 at Bay Cliff Health Camp, in Big Bay near Marquette. This conference is for teens and adults, with a registration deadline of February 20.

4-H Family Weekend is scheduled for March 18 and 19 at the Kettunen Center, the Michigan 4H Foundation Leadership Training Center in Tustin, near Cadillac. The theme for the weekend is “Journey to the Deep Blue Sea” and will include learning adventures regarding the world’s greatest natural resource, water. Participants will learn about marine ecology, and the needs, niche adaptations, relationships, and habitats of animals from different ocean environments. Registration deadline is March 7.

Also at Kettunen Center is the 4-H Plant Science and Entomology Workshop scheduled for March 24 to March 26, with a deadline for registration of March 10.

4-H environmental and outdoor education opportunities include the Challenge Leader Training Series. This is a certification process in which adults receive training in backpacking, hiking, camping, canoeing, rock climbing, snowshoeing, skiing, caving, and learning outdoor safety and survival skills. Applications are due by April 10.

4-H Environmental and Outdoor Education Adult and Teen Leader Training is scheduled for March 4 and March 5 at Kettunen Center and will include training in environmental stewardship, wildlife, forest and water study, land use education, and outdoor recreation and leadership. Registration deadline is February 17.

4-H Global Festival Workshop is scheduled for April 1 and April 2 at Kettunen Center and will feature cultures from around the world, including Latin America and the Caribbean, Asia, Africa, Europe, Middle East, and North America. Deadline to register is March 17.

4-H Folkpatterns and Global and Cultural Education is scheduled for April 28 and April 29 and is for individuals interested in documenting oral history and who are willing to re-teach what they learn to children in youth in projects and classes. Deadline to apply is April 19.

If you would like more information on any of these learning opportunities, call the Mackinac County MSU Extension office at 643-7307.