Youth Development

A recent commentary on school-based physical fitness testing presents it as a valuable tool for addressing the crisis in childhood physical inactivity and chronic diseases when integrated into well-supported physical education programs. Currently, fitness testing is required in 16 states, providing…

Training opportunity for 4-H volunteers and staff  As 4-H volunteers and staff, we have likely taken multiple first-aid and CPR courses over our life. Whether from the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or other organizations we inherently know basic first aid might come in handy someday…

Introduction We all want to feel loved. To belong. To matter. To live without fear. We want to have meaningful relationships. We want to know others. We want to be known. These describe the human experience. They describe what it can mean to live a whole life. But as we know, life can sometimes get…

Overall child diet quality in the U.S. is low compared to national recommendations in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. A recent study suggests more availability of fruits and vegetables and less availability of sugar-sweetened beverages in children's homes is associated with better dietary intakes…

June 30 was the last day of the 2025-2026 program year for 4-H. There are still a few events happening in July as a culmination of last year’s program, like camp in El Dorado and fair in Tuolumne and Amador. As many of our youth are wrapping up and reminiscing on the memories they’ve made and lessons they’ve…

IntroductionThe 4-H Beyond Ready Goal of reaching 10 million youth by 2030 (4-H PLWG Standing Committee, 2025) challenges us to explore new avenues of reaching youth across California and the nation. One promising approach is through collaboration with expanded learning programs (e.g. schools, Boys and Girls…

Visiting Yosemite National Park is an awe-inspiring experience, even for the most seasoned of travelers. The valleys, waterfalls, giant sequoias, and iconic Glacier Point are all bucket list destinations ideal for a family camping vacation. To continue enjoying beautiful parks like Yosemite, it is important…