08-08-2025
Growing great kids: Learn about 4-H programs that nurture youth, teach life skills
Every parent knows the feeling. You look at your child and see endless potential. Their curiosity, creativity, and, let's be honest, even their stubborn streak all hint at something great. You know they are capable of amazing things, but sometimes you find yourself asking: What can I do to help them grow into the best version of themselves?
Here's a clue: think like a gardener.
Just as plants need sunlight, water, and rich soil to grow, young people thrive when they're rooted in the right environment. That kind of intentional, nurturing support is at the heart of 4-H.
Learn more about Leon County's 4-H programs at an Open House from 10 a.m.-noon Aug. 16, at the Leon County Extension Office, 615 Paul Russell Road.
We use a research-based approach that helps adults create spaces where kids feel safe, supported, and motivated to grow. 4-H's success is rooted in the science of Positive Youth Development, which focuses on supporting young people's growth through meaningful learning experiences. This approach aims to equip youth with essential life skills and a strong sense of empowerment, helping them achieve their full potential.
Building healthy soil
Every young person is like a seed, full of potential and packed with promise. Inside them is everything they need to grow into someone strong, unique, and full of life. But even the healthiest seed can't thrive without the right youth development, the 'soil' that helps young people grow consists of the relationships, experiences, and environments that shape their lives.
Sparks: To help youth thrive, we provide spaces where they can discover and explore what excites and inspires them.
Belonging: We foster inclusive environments where every young person feels welcomed, supported, and safe – both physically and emotionally.
Relationships: We build strong, positive connections between youth and caring adults, as well as among peers, to encourage trust and empowerment.
Engagement: We inspire youth to take an active role in their learning by offering opportunities that challenge and motivate them. Youth are encouraged to use their voices and take ownership of their growth.
Positive youth development at home
You may be wondering how to support your child's development at home. The good news? You do not need to be an expert in youth development – or a master gardener. As a parent or caregiver, you are already the most influential person in your child's life. Simply by being present and intentional, you can help create the kind of rich, nurturing "soil" in which young people can truly thrive.
It is easy to feel guilty about the hours not spent with your child, but the quality of the time you share matters the most. Amidst busy schedules and daily responsibilities, even a few focused minutes, asking a thoughtful question, sharing a laugh, or offering genuine encouragement, can go a long way in supporting your child's growth.
Here are some small ways to help support Positive Youth Development at home:
Celebrate individual strengths: Just as every plant grows in its own way, each child has unique interests and talents. Take notice of what brings your child joy and encourage those passions. Supporting their individuality builds confidence and a sense of purpose.
Create a sense of belonging: A healthy garden gives each plant the space it needs to flourish. At home, this means cultivating an environment where your child feels safe, included, and respected. Involve them in family decisions, value their opinions, and ensure they know they have a place where they truly belong.
Nurture strong relationships: Roots grow strongest in connected, supportive soil. Build and maintain trusting relationships with your child through open communication and consistent care. Encourage positive peer connections and model healthy interactions.
Encourage meaningful engagement: Give your child opportunities to explore, take initiative, and be actively involved in their learning. Whether through responsibilities, hobbies, or shared projects, allow them to contribute, lead, and learn from experience.
Be a steady source of support: Even the most resilient plants need shelter during storms. Provide emotional safety by being a dependable presence. Whether through listening, offering reassurance, or simply saying 'I'm proud of you,' remind your child that they are never growing alone.
Learn about Leon County 4-H
Creating an environment where positive youth development can take root does not require perfection, just care, consistency, and intentionality. Every meaningful moment you share helps your child grow into a confident, capable, and resilient young person.
Today's youth are growing up in a world filled with pressure, comparison, and constant change. But when they are deeply rooted in a sense of belonging and support, they do not just survive, they thrive. They grow into compassionate, self-assured adults who believe in themselves and contribute to a brighter world.
And it all starts with you.
Leon County 4-H programs create meaningful, measurable impacts on young people's social, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive development. Every 4-H experience in Leon County is built on the foundation of Positive Youth Development, ensuring all youth have the opportunity to thrive in inclusive and equitable environments. If you're seeking a space where your child can feel accepted, express themselves, and grow into their best self, Leon County 4-H is ready to support them.
Come meet our team, explore project areas, ask questions, and see firsthand how 4-H helps youth thrive in a safe, supportive, and fun environment. Whether your child is into animals, robotics, public speaking, leadership, or just looking for 'their people' – there's a place for them here.
Plant the seed. Enrich the soil. Watch them thrive.
Valerie Mendez is a 4-H Agent with UF/IFAS Extension Leon County, an Equal Opportunity Institution. For gardening questions, email the extension office at AskAMasterGardener@
If you go
What: Leon County 4-H Open House
When: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Aug. 16
Where: Leon County Extension Office, 615 Paul Russell Road, Tallahassee, FL 32301
This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Leon County 4-H programs nurture kids, teach life skills
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