OGLESBY - University of Illinois Extension invites area youth, ages 8-12 years old, to learn about the 4-H program and to try out some fun projects at home. Families and youth are invited to sign up and participate in the upcoming Find Your Spark! sessions.

In 4-H, youth learn by doing and they have a great time while doing it. These Find Your Spark! sessions will provide youth with a variety of experiences on a variety of fun topics. This six-week session begins Feb. 23 and is held on Tuesday evenings from 4-5 p.m. via Zoom. The cost to participate is $5 per youth, which includes all six sessions. The sessions are aimed at youth ages 8-12 and focus on Health, Cultural Awareness, Creative Arts, Child Development, Animal Science, and Horticulture:

Health: This lesson will introduce youth to the importance of physical fitness as part of a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, they will learn about three types of exercise with the main focus being on flexibility and balance. To conclude, the group will go through a yoga flow and practice poses that have been matched to the 4-H Pledge.

Cultural Awareness: Explore a different culture through traditional meals and food etiquette. We’ll learn how to use Japanese chopsticks and practice our new skills together.

Creative Arts: It is time to get creative. In this session, participants will explore different visual arts and mediums to help them create their very own creature out of modeling clay.

Child Development: This lesson will introduce youth to the four areas of growth and development: physical, mental, social, and emotional. Participants will observe how children express emotions, learn how children are similar and different, and analyze appropriate activities for infants and toddlers, ages birth-5 years.

Animal Science: Think like a veterinarian. In this session, participants will learn about how parasites affect sheep and goats and use diagnostic tools to determine if an animal needs treatment.

Horticulture: Discover your green thumb by learning how to grow culinary herbs. We will explore some recipes to try using your homegrown herbs and then take a look at the new herb project exhibit opportunity.

Each week an experienced 4-H educator will teach youth about a different topic and provide a hands-on activity to complete. All supplies will be mailed to participants. Registration is required for this program by Feb. 11. To learn more and to register for this program, visit https://extension.illinois.edu/events/2021-02-23-find-your-spark-4-h-0. You may also contact Beth Dellatori, 4-H Youth Development Educator, at beth5@illiois.edu or call (815) 224-0889.