Clover Kids a great, introductory program to 4-H

GREENFIELD — Danielle Morgan and Terri Raasch are both excited for their involvement right now in the program called Clover Kids that meets monthly for workshops that are designed for children who are younger than the eligible age for 4-H.

Morgan is the outgoing Youth Development Coordinator and will soon be moving on toward other endeavors and Raasch began recently, taking her position.

A Clover Kids event was held Saturday at the Greenfield Public Library. Clover Kids is for youth who are in kindergarten through third grade.

“A lot of the focus is on STEM, so that’s science, technology, engineering and math. The last session we did measurements and made oobleck, which is made of cornstarch and water,” Morgan said. “Each year Iowa State puts out a Clover Kids program, and this year it’s ‘Steaming through the Seasons.’ It’s a great opportunity for kids to come, and it’s very hands on for them to figure things out for themselves. I’m very surprised sometimes by the things these kids can figure out. Sometimes I think the activities are too hard and they never are.”

Morgan explained that the hope is that when Clover Kids transition into fourth grade they will want to join 4-H.

Another program, called Clover Buds, is often utilized by children under the age of fourth grade who have older siblings already in 4-H, and there are many opportunities for children in both programs.

Morgan said that about 75% of Clover Kids become 4-H members when they are old enough.

Raasch has been a 4-H leader for about five years, first with the Summerset Citizens and more recently with the Orient Bulldogs. She and her husband Trent have four boys, who all have participated in Clover Kids but were also Clover Buds.

Raasch studied horticulture at Iowa State University and recently wanted to transition back into a position that is a little more agricultural-based.

“My kids have done a few Clover Kids things but my kids have been Clover Buds, which are attached to a 4-H club,” Raasch said.

Raasch explained that she is excited to strengthen already existing relationships between area schools and 4-H in her new position.

Those wishing to join Clover Kids or 4-H as a Clover Bud may contact the Adair County ISU Extension Office at 641-743-8412 Monday through Thursday.

Oct. 3-8 is National 4-H Week. Clubs around the country are doing various activities to promote the 4-H program. Locally, the Orient Bulldogs 4-H Club decorated in front of the Adair County Extension Office and the NV Champions 4-H Club decorated in front of the Greenfield Public Library.