by Suzi Taylor
From the 1998-99 4-H Clover Project Selection Guide

A Day in the Life of a Cloverbud:

Teen leaders find out just how much energy these pre-4-H'ers have!

So what's the big deal? How tiring could it be to teach 18 Cloverbuds the 4-H pledge, the intricacies of a friendship bracelet and the fine art of Flubber?

Cascade County teen leaders found out the hard way when they conducted a Cloverbud Camp this April. Eighteen budding 4-H members enjoyed a day of activities and fun as the teen leaders conducted the first-ever Cloverbud Camp. While the Cloverbuds learned many new skills, the teen leaders also learned a great deal about working with young 4-H members, most notably, that activities must change about every 20 minutes, as 6- to 8-year-olds like to be busy all the time!

Teen leaders, assisted by an MSU Extension agent and one adult Cloverbud leader, planned the program and each one took responsibility for leading a different activity throughout the day. From learning the 4-H pledge while making a friendship bracelet, planting seeds and making Flubber, to preparing their own lunch and snacks, these up-and-coming 4-H'ers went home with many new experiences introducing them to the variety of fun and education awaiting them as they turn nine and become full-fledged 4-H members.

Activities took place from 9:30 to 3:00 and the teen leaders were not the only ones tired when it was over--two of the participants asked when it would be "nap time"!

NOTE: The Cloverbud program is a special curriculum for youth aged 6 to 8.

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