The family studies project offers youth the opportunity to learn about their growth and development as well as that of others.
They will learn about children of different ages and appropriate activities that help children grow and develop physically, socially, mentally and emotionally.
Youngsters also will learn about building family strengths to nurture children.
To learn more about the 4-H family studies project there is 4-H Curriculum that can be purchased. Here is a breakdown of what youth can learn at different levels:
Consumer Skills
Ages 9-10
Determine differences between needs and wants
Develop a savings plan for a specific goal
Practice comparison shopping
Learn to make change
Ages 11-13
Identify personal values
Make a major purchase
Understand peer pressure
Learn to manage a checking account
Ages 14 and Older
Recognize target advertising
Identify consumer rights
Learn the value of employment
Child Development
Ages 7-9
Learn where they fit in the family
Observe how people express emotions
Know risks of internet use
Ages 10-13
Learn to take care of self at home
Identify characteristics of friends
Learn socially accepted manners and customs
Ages 14 and Older
Observe child behavior
Understand effects of TV on children
Create intergenerational community service projects
Family
Ages 7-8
Learn behaviors that develop friendships
Respect others and their belongings
Understand need for family rules
Ages 9-11
Express feelings in a positive way
Learn to cope with change
Know that family forms change
Ages 12-13
Learn physical changes of adolescence
Utilize the “Think-Feel-Do” cycle of stress
Learn that choices have consequences
Ages 14 and Older
Study effects of employment on family and lifestyle
Evaluate best uses of credit cards
Learn to use consensus and compromise
The family studies project is a great opportunity for youth to learn important life skills. For more information, contact Jennifer K. Terrell, 4-H Youth Development for K-State Research and Extension – Southwind District at jkterrell@ksu.edu or 620-244-3826.
