2020 4-H Summer Programming Sessions
4-H at Home Aquaponics Project – This Workshop is Full. Wednesdays, 10:00-12:00, July 22nd through October
Ages 9 & Up; open to Maine youth; maximum attendees 10. Hancock County 4-H and the UMaine Center for Cooperative Aquaculture Research (CCAR) are launching a 4-H At-Home Aquaponics Project, an experiential learning program for youth ages 9-18 delivered virtually beginning in Summer 2020. The program will include learning experiences in introductory aquaponic systems and design, fish husbandry, aquaponic gardening, cooking and nutrition, and more. Youth will practice important life skills such as recordkeeping, problem-solving, food safety, collaboration/teamwork, science and math literacy, and more! Registration for this workshop requires an application on the 4-H At-Home Aquaponics Project page (Cooperative Extension in Hancock County website). Register by June 29.
4-H Ecobots – July 22 at 11:00 -12:30 pm; August 6 at 3:00 – 4:30 pm
Ages 12 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 20 attendees
Join us for this fun interactive workshop where you get to build a mini ecobot, design a control surface, and determine the most effective environmental clean-up solution for a simulated toxic spill! Materials for this workshop will be provided (by pick up or mail). Suggested donation $5 for materials cost. Register by July 8 for 7/22 session, and by July 23 for 8/6 session.
4-H Outdoor Activity Handbook – Offline Session
All Ages; open to Maine youth for mailings, out of state youth can receive info via email
This handbook includes a series of experiential activities that can be done outdoors in your backyard or neighborhood! The handbook will be emailed or mailed directly to you to complete at your own pace over the summer. Document your experience by sharing photos and/or videos to a group sharing station. Sample activities include but are not limited to: Backyard Camping, Birding, Plant Pressing, Entomology, Wednesday in the Woods Activities, and more! We hope that you and your household can join in on these outdoor 4-H activities to bring us a little closer across the social distance. Registration deadline for this workshop is July 6th, with rolling deadline for handbooks by request.
Archaeology: Past, Present, and Future – July 28, 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Ages 9 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 15 attendees
Archaeologists learn about cultures from the past by studying the objects they left behind. In 1,000 years, what objects will archaeologists study in order to understand our culture? In this workshop, we will draw future archaeological sites, thinking about what objects we use today will be preserved in the ground for 1,000 years. The crusts of bread from your sandwich probably won’t stand the test of time, but the rubber sole of your shoe might. What inferences could an archaeologist make about you and your culture based on a shoe, and some buttons, and maybe a pair of glasses found in an old bedroom? Register by July 27.
Are Pigs Really that Dirty? – July 8, 1:00 – 2:00 pm
Ages 12 & up; open to all youth
Join Dr. Colt Knight, University of Maine Livestock Specialist, for a discussion on pigs. Learn about different kinds of pigs, how pigs are kept, and where the bacon comes from. Dr. Knight will also explain career opportunities in the world of pigs. Register by July 7.
Baked and No-Bake Treats with Becca in the Kitchen – July 20 – August 10
All Ages; open to all youth; unlimited
You will be making a series (or pick a recipe) of delicious gluten-free treats! Recipes will include apple crisp, pumpkin muffins, raspberry sorbet, chocolate chip cookies, and raspberry cookies. Each week of this series participants will receive, via email, an ingredients list and a video with instructions for how to make these delicious treats! You can follow along at your own pace, and then share a picture of what your end result looks like with the group. You must provide your own materials. Sign up for one or all four! Register by the Friday before the session.
- Week of July 20 – apple crisp
- Week of July 27 – pumpkin muffins
- Week of August 3 – raspberry sorbet and raspberry cookies
- Week of August 10 – chocolate chip cookies
Basics of Livestock Photography – July 6 at 9:00 – 10:00 am
Ages 9 & up; open to enrolled Maine 4-Hers
Basics of livestock photography. How should you position your animal to make it look its best? What parts should you take pictures of for a virtual show? Where should the sun be so you don’t squint? Where should you take your pictures? We’ll get answers to these questions and more to help you get your best picture of your animals whether you are using a camera or a phone. Register by July 2.
Bloodhound and Search and Rescue Hound – August 8 at 10:00 – 11:00 am
All Ages; open to all youth
Learn what it is like to train a Hound dog for search and rescue and how we have worked to become a Search & Rescue Team. Register by August 7.
Cardboard Challenge – July 13, 6:00 – 7:30 pm; July 14, 9:30 – 11:00 am
All ages; open to all youth; maximum 50 attendees
This workshop will issue a building challenge for participants – with a kick. The challenge will be to construct something using only cardboard, tape, and other recycled materials. What will you build? A rocket ship? A house? Use your imagination and share your creativity with other 4-H engineers. Participants will need to supply their own materials – a list will be sent one week in advance. This session is open to all ages but participants may need adult assistance to safely cut cardboard. Register by July 6 for 7/13, and by July 7 for 7/14.
Offline Version: Participants will receive instructions via mail/email and be asked to share a picture of their finished creation. No limit on participation – must register by July 13th.
Carrot Pancakes – July 23, 2:30-3:00
Youth ages 9 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 8 attendees
Learn how to make carrot pancakes and taste-test this tasty meal.We will also discuss how to be safe in the kitchen and how to make healthy choices. Participants will be provided an ingredients list one week in advance and will need to provide their own materials to follow along. Register by July 16.
Celebrating Summer’s Plants! – August 7, 10:00-11:00
Ages 5 – 11; open to Maine youth; maximum 20 attendees
Join Landere from Blue Hill Heritage Trust for a workshop on common backyard plants! We will celebrate the life and beauty they provide and get better acquainted with common species in Maine, engaging with them through recipes, concoctions, crafts, songs, poetry, and more! Register by July 31.
Dairy Promotion and Consumer Interaction – August 6, 7:00-8:00 PM
All ages; open to all youth
Telling the story of dairy from farm to table is very important and its a big, complicated story. As 4-H exhibitors, you are often the first contact a consumer may have with someone in the dairy industry. In this session, we will talk about being a strong ambassador for agriculture, why it’s important, how to handle tough questions, and when to ask for help in consumer interactions. Register by August 5.
DHIA Records: What the Cows are Telling You – July 23, 6:30-7:30 pm
Youth ages 9 & up; open to all youth
Dairy Herd Information Association Records (DHIA) records contain a lot of numbers. Understanding them can give you valuable information about a herd’s performance. In this workshop, we will look at some DHIA summary sheets and find out what the cows are telling us about their nutrition, breeding, and health. Understanding DHIA records will help you better evaluate your animal’s performance or assess the performance of potential additions to your herd. Register by July 16.
Diversity and Inclusion 101: Introduction to Concepts – July 23, 12:30 – 1:30 pm
Youth ages 12 & up; open to all youth; maximum 40 attendees
What is privilege and implicit bias? What does LGBTQIA+ stand for? What does a land acknowledgment mean? This is an interactive session, and a good first step to learning about some really big topic areas. Register by July 22.
Diversity and Inclusion 102: Empowered for Change in Maine – July 23, 3:00 – 4:00 pm
Youth ages 12 & up; open to all youth; maximum 40 attendees
Partnering with the Holocaust and Human Rights Center of Maine, participants will come away with strategies to make change happen, first with themselves, and second, in their community. This is the second session in the series. Register by July 22.
Emergency Preparedness Family Challenge – July 21, 1:00-2:30
Youth ages 12 & up; open to Maine youth; up to a dozen families
This will be an opportunity for youth and their family members to exercise Emergency Preparedness skills through role-playing. Youth will be able to showcase what skills and supplies they have on hand for recovering from emergencies. Families should explore www.ready.gov and have a “Go-Bag” assembled before this workshop. Register by July 14.
Empowering MEandYou Teen Wellness – Thursdays, July 9 – August 6, 9:30-10:30
Youth ages 12 & Up; open to Maine youth; maximum 15 attendees
The #EmpoweringMEandYou Teen Wellness program is based on the Healthy Living Curriculum series by the same name. Teens will learn coping strategies for stress, how to combat negative thinking patterns, and how to recognize your own self-worth and self-esteem. Lessons will also include mindfulness practices and yoga. Open to any teen in the state of Maine regardless of 4-H participation. Register by July 8.
Evaluating the Health of Your Dairy Goat – July 31, 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Open to youth of all ages; open to Maine youth
First, we’ll learn what a healthy dairy goat looks like. We’ll talk about helpful tools for evaluation (ie. thermometer, FAMACHA chart, etc.) and how to use them. We’ll also learn what is normal for a goat in terms of temperature, respiration, heart rate, coat/skin, hooves, etc. And finally, we’ll learn some of the more common signs of a sick goat and what to do if our goat is not well. Register by July 24.
Fish Behavior and How Fish Communicate – What are They Trying to Tell You? – August 3, 1:00-2:00
Youth ages 9 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 15 attendees
In this workshop, we will examine the diversity of fish behavior and explore the ways in which fish communicate. Expert Dr. Scarlett Tudor will share her research about fish in Maine and her studies conducted with guppies in her personal tank. Can fish do an obstacle course? Join in to find out! Register by July 31.
General Equine Knowledge – July 8, 6:00 pm
Youth ages 9 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 20 attendees
Prepare for the ESE knowledge test or brush up on your general equine knowledge. Created for youth, by youth. Register by July 2.
Getting a Dog: Why? When? Where? And How? – July 18, 1:00 – 1:45 pm
Youth ages 9 & up; open to Maine youth
Interested in getting a dog but not sure where and how to start? Participants will be talking about places to get a dog and how to know if they are right for you. Register by July 17.
Gut Microbes on the Farm – August 13, 3:00 – 4:00 pm
Youth ages 12 & up; open to all youth
Learn about different digestive tracts in livestock, and the community of microbes living there that help animals digest food, or stay healthy. This presentation will give some background on different digestive tract anatomy, the factors which influence microbes in the gut, and how we can care for animals by caring for their microbes. This presentation will also feature a short presentation on Dr. Ishaq’s journey into science and a Q&A session where attendees can ask questions about gut microbes, life as a scientist, or how to get involved in this time of career. Register by August 12.
Herbs and Holistic Remedies for Goats – July 30, 9:00 – 10:00 am
Youth ages 9 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 15 attendees
A broad overview of many different herbs that could be used on livestock. I mainly use holistic remedies on goats, but most of the same remedies can be applied to other kinds of livestock with guidance from your veterinarian. I will talk about different ways I administer herbs, and benefits/risks to certain herbs. Register by July 29.
How to Clip Dairy Goats for a Show – Workshop Series – July 14, 21, and 28, 9:00 – 10:00 am
Youth ages 9 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 15 attendees
The basics of how to clip dairy goats, and tips/tricks that work well for me. I will cover how to clip bodies, udders, legs, and tricky spots. I will also go over what clippers I have, and what blade sizes I prefer to use. This is great for people interested in showing dairy goats, or anyone who wants to brush up on their clipping techniques. The 1st workshop would be basics and body clipping. 2nd workshop would be leg, head, and other places to touch up. 3rd workshop would be udders and any final questions. Register by July 13.
How to Get Started with your 4-H Animal Science Project – August 3, 5:00 – 6:00 pm
Open to youth of all ages; open to Maine youth
Are you interested in trying a 4-H animal science project? This interactive workshop will provide you with the information you need to get started. If you are wondering where to find an animal, how to show your pet, or how to join 4-H, this workshop is for you! This workshop will provide an introduction into the world of 4-H animal science projects and let you know how you can get involved. Register by July 31.
Kittens – See How They Grow! – August 4, 3:30 – 4:30 pm
Youth ages 5 – 11; open to all youth
This session will introduce youth to the wonderful world of kittens! There will be general information on how kittens develop, LOTS of photos and videos of kittens I have fostered, and what you need to get yourself ready to adopt a kitten. There will also be some live appearances of the foster kittens currently in my care! Register by August 3.
Kittens! What is Fostering and How Does it Work? – August 14, 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Youth ages 9 & up; open to all youth
This session will be a fun mix of information about what fostering is (taking care of baby kittens to get them ready to be adopted) and why we do it. There will be information about the importance of TNR (Trap, Neuter, Release) programs, and the different challenges and fun experiences that fostering can involve. Plan to see a LOT of videos and photos of kittens I’ve fostered in the past – as well as meeting the fosters currently in my care! Please note that details about health challenges kittens face can be upsetting to some. Register by August 13.
Leadership Series 1: Following Your Yellow Brick Road – July 7, 7:00 – 8:15 pm
Youth ages 12 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 30 attendees
Each of us has a goal that we are passionate about! Join us in sharing the story of the Wizard of Oz and working together to explore our personal strengths and the resources we have and we want to discover as we journey down the Yellow Brick Road. Together we will visualize how our Ruby Slippers, Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion can all help us reach the Emerald City of our goal. Register by July 1.
Leadership Series 2: The Compassionate Leadership of Glinda the Good Witch – July 14, 7:00 – 8:15 pm
Youth ages 12 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 30 attendees
Come join us for a discussion-based session on the qualities of leaders that we admire and strive to develop! Compassionate leadership as a form of leading is not talked about very much and is a very important side of leadership. Glinda the Good Witch being the compassionate leader along with Dorothy and company’s journey will guide us through our time together. Register by July 7.
Leadership Series 3: The Wizard – What Type of Leader are You? – July 21, 7:00 – 8:15 pm
Youth ages 12 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 30 attendees
In this interactive workshop, you will determine what kind of leader you are, recognize common leadership roles in a group, and explore how different personality traits affect leadership styles. Register by July 20.
Leadership Series 4 The Wicked Witch: Reframing Challenges – July 28, 7:00 – 8:15 pm
Youth ages 12 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 30 attendees
Whether it feels like challenges are coming at you like a swarm of Flying Monkeys, or they’re the small everyday things, figuring out how we deal with conflict is key. In this workshop, we will look at common types of conflict and work through some activities to build us up when dealing with challenges. Register by July 27.
Leadership Series 5: The Not-So Cowardly Lion: Flipping the Script on Followership – August 4, 7:00 – 8:15 pm
Youth ages 12 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 30 attendees
Dorothy may have been the leader out front, but the heart of our fearless crew is the Lion. What if we think of that heart, not as cowardly, but as courageous? Dive into the rarely discussed side of teams: the courageous followers, and learn how they are the heart of getting things done together. Register by August 3.
Leadership Series 6: Lions and Tigers and Bears, Oh My! Easy Ways to Facilitate Groups – August 11, 7:00 – 8:15 pm
Youth ages 12 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 30 attendees
As part of the Youth Leadership Development series, participants will learn 4 key elements that make you a great facilitator. This interactive session will allow youth to explore these concepts while working together to highlight simple ways to be successful. Register by August 10.
Leadership Series 7: Behind the Curtain – August 18, 7:00 – 8:15 pm
Youth ages 12 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 30 attendees
The characters in the Wizard of Oz learned to be their authentic selves through their journey and we learned “who” the Wizard really was when the curtain was pulled back. Let’s pull back our own curtains and shine a light on our authentic selves and how we are all wise and powerful wizards. Register by August 14.
Learning About Dairy Goats – A look at getting to know these farm favorites – Mondays, July 13, 20 & 27, 10:00-11:00
Open to youth of all ages; open to Maine youth; maximum 15 attendees
Almost everyone loves watching the antics of a cute baby kid goat! In these three workshops, we will learn more about these farm favorites. The first focuses on the 9 different dairy goat breeds recognized by the American Dairy Goat Association. We will learn about everything from ears to udders as we discuss the traits and personalities of the different dairy goats. We also will learn some basic information about keeping dairy goats. The second workshop discusses identifying and understanding the parts of a dairy goat, taking its vital signs, and performing routine care, such as trimming hooves. In the third workshop, we talk about identifying, judging, and selecting a dairy goat either as a family milker or a show prospect. Register by July 10.
Maine Citizen Science 4-H SPIN Club – Wednesdays July 8 – August 12, 3:00 – 4:00 pm
Youth ages 9 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 15 attendees
We have an exciting opportunity for kids in 4th through 8th grade to join the second wave of this virtual 4-H club – the 4-H Citizen Scientists! In this club, you’ll practice citizen science in your own back yard, and observe and report on the nature around you while making connections with fellow citizen scientists around the state! The club will meet 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm Wednesdays starting July 8, 2020, through August 12. Participants will need access to a digital camera (phones are fine). This club is limited to 15 members, and online registration is required. Register by July 1.
Make Your Own Pretzels – July 28, 1:30 pm
Youth ages 12 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 8 attendees
Have you ever wondered how to make a pretzel? How does it get its classic pretzel shape? Well, come learn with me and see how fun and easy pretzel-making can be! We will learn how to make a healthier whole wheat pretzel dough, learn how to form it into different shapes, and enjoy a classic snack together! Participants will be provided an ingredients list one week in advance and will need to provide their own materials to follow along. Register by July 21.
Making Goat Milk Soap! – August 12, 10:00-11:00 am
Youth ages 12 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 30 attendees
Come learn the basics of making Goat Milk Soap! Register by August 10.
Making No-Yeast Bread – August 10
Youth ages 9 & up; open to all youth; maximum 12 attendees
In this workshop, youth will learn how to make and bake Bannock, traditional Native American bread, which is very common across Canada. It was learned several hundred years ago from fur traders. While the bread is baking in the oven, a demonstration will be given on how to cook this bread on top of the stove. This is a great bread to make when camping. A parent or adult family member will need to provide support to youth during this workshop. Participants will receive a video with instruction on August 10. You provide your own materials and make at your own pace. Register by July 27.
Master of Invention and Creativity – Rube Goldberg Challenge – July 27, 6:00 – 8:00 pm or July 28, 9:30 – 11:30 am
Youth of all ages; open to all youth; maximum 50 attendees
Do you like to explore, build, and be creative? Join us for this invention challenge. Participants will learn about Rube Goldberg, a master inventor who is famous for making complex inventions to complete a simple task. Participants will work collaboratively and have the opportunity to share their creations with peers. Participants will need to supply their own materials and will receive a list one week in advance. This session is open to all ages but some participants may need adult assistance for safety purposes. Register by July 20 for 7/27, and by July 21 for 7/28.
Offline Version: Participants will receive instructions via mail/email and be asked to share a picture of their finished creation. Deadline to register for offline version: July 27th.
Mexican Mini Pizza – Session Full – Email jessica.brainerd@maine.edu to be added to waitlist, July 10, 11:00-11:30 am
Youth ages 9 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 8 youth
Learn to prepare a nutritious and delicious pizza that includes many of the Choose MyPlate food groups. Participants will be provided an ingredients list one week in advance and will need to provide their own materials to follow along. Register by July 2.
Nature Journaling with Art and Photography – Thursdays from July 30 – August 20, 10:00 – 10:45 am
Youth ages 9 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 12 attendees
Whether you live in a country house or a city apartment, you can step outside and find nature everywhere! If you pay attention, you will see amazing things happening in your own backyard. Recording what you see is a method that has been used by scientists for centuries! In this series, we will meet four times as a group over Zoom (30-45 minutes each time), and complete one activity a week between meetings. You will receive your own journal, where you will record what you observe in the outdoors. You can use drawing, writing, photography, or a combination of all three. Photographing outdoors with available light will be a focus, but also improving your observation skills. Sharing your results with the group is encouraged! Anyone with a phone or camera and access to the outside can participate. Materials are provided for this workshop and will be mailed or available for pick up. Suggested donation $7 for materials costs. Register by July 16.
Oatmeal, Strawberry, Banana Smoothies – Session Full – Email jessica.brainerd@maine.edu to be added to waitlist, August 4, 10:00-10:30
Youth of All Ages; open to Maine youth; maximum 8 participants
Learn how to make this fruity smoothie! We will go step-by-step through the recipe and talk about the nutritional benefits of this delicious treat! Participants will be provided an ingredients list one week in advance and will need to provide their own materials to follow along. Register by July 30.
Patterns and Shapes – Create with Dough – Offline Workshop – Register by July 20
Youth ages 5 – 8; open to enrolled Maine 4-Hers; maximum 25 participants
With their families, youth will make a sculpting dough following a simple recipe, or you can choose to use dough you purchased. You will be mailed a pattern and shape challenge. Using your dough you will create a simple A-B-A-B pattern and an A-A-B-B pattern. You will have to use your dough to make small animals, shapes, and other items. This workshop will be offered offline, participants will be mailed packets with instructions. Participants provide their own materials.
Peanut Butter Banana Wraps and Yogurt Parfaits with Food Friends – July 16, 11:00-11:30
Youth ages 5 – 8; open to Maine youth; maximum 8 participants
These are two great recipes that introduce you to our MyPlate Food Friends. Jane Grain, Dean Protein, and Farrah Fruit help me make a super healthy Peanut Butter Banana Wrap while Mary Dairy joins the fun with our yummy Yogurt Parfait. The best part is, you can do all of the cooking yourself!!! Participants will be provided an ingredients list one week in advance and will need to provide their own materials to follow along. Register by July 9.
Pond Explorers – Offline Workshop – Workshop Full – Email jessica.brainerd@maine.edu to be added to waitlist, Registration Deadline July 6
Youth of all ages; open to Maine youth; maximum 10 participants
Have you ever wanted to become an explorer? Write for National Geographic? Discover a new species of insect? Get your feet wet by participating in “4-H Pond Explorers!” You will be mailed a kit that features five themed activities centered around insects, plants, birds, animals, and amphibians. Explore a pond of your choosing, discover what your pond has to offer, and share it with the world! Create a map, a nature journal, and share your discoveries (whether they be videos, photos, or the written word) via a 4-H Pond Explorers Travel Blog. Suggested donation $10 for materials.
Safe Passwords – July 16, 3:30 – 4:30 pm
Youth ages 9 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 10 participants
This workshop is led by Maine 4-H Teen Digital Ambassadors. Digital Ambassadors will teach participants about the importance of a strong password. Register by July 14.
Sheep 101: Getting Started with a 4-H Sheep Project – July 14, 6:00 – 6:30 pm
All Ages; open to Maine youth; maximum 49 participants
Join the Maine ESE Sheep Team youth and volunteers for some basic information on how to set up a pen, what to do to prepare for getting a sheep, daily routines, and more! Register by July 13.
Sheep 101: All About Sheep – July 22, 10:00 – 11:00 am
All Ages; open to Maine youth
Join Dr. Colt Knight, University of Maine Livestock Specialist, for a discussion on sheep. Learn about different kinds of sheep, different uses for sheep, how to care for sheep, and job opportunities in the sheep world. Register by July 21.
Sheep 101: Different Breeds of Sheep & Shearing – July 29, 5:00-5:30 pm
All Ages; open to Maine youth; maximum 49 participants
Join the Maine ESE Sheep Team youth and volunteers for a brief overview of some of their sheep breeds and how to groom them according to breed! Register by July 28.
Sheep 101: Sheep Showing, Fitting, and Showmanship – August 12, 4:00 – 4:30 pm
All Ages; open to Maine youth; maximum 49 participants
Join the Maine ESE Sheep Team youth and volunteers for some tips on showing, fitting, showmanship, cleaning, and more! Register by August 11.
Solar S’Mores – August 10, 6:00 – 7:30 pm, or August 11, 1:00 – 2:30 pm
All ages; open to all youth; maximum 50 participants
Explore the power of solar energy and learn how to make your own solar oven. This hands-on workshop will walk participants through building their own solar oven. You will test your oven’s effectiveness by cooking your very own s’more. Participants will need to supply their own materials and a list will be provided one week in advance. This session is open to all ages but some participants may need adult assistance for safety purposes. Register by August 3 for 8/10 session, and by August 4 for the August 11 session.
Offline Version: Participants will receive instructions via mail/email and be asked to share a picture of their finished creation. Deadline for offline registration: August 10.
Speak Up! Building skills and confidence through public speaking – August 18 & 20, 10-noon, must attend both sessions
All ages; enrolled Maine 4-Hers only; maximum 15 participants
This is a two-session workshop where 4-H youth cloverbuds through senior members can learn about public speaking. We will go over what public speaking is, why and when we use it, how public speaking helps youth share ideas and build confidence, and ultimately how to build your own 4-H public speaking presentation. In the second session, youth will present through ZOOM their public speaking presentations and will peer-review each other, giving a chance to both present and provide constructive criticism for their peers to strengthen their presentation skills. This workshop is open for all 4-Hers regardless of age or public speaking experience, however, it is going to be directed most as an introduction to public speaking for beginners. Register by August 11.
Squid Dissection – August 20, 10:00 or 1:00 Both Sessions are Full – New session: August 20, 3:00 pm has space – email jessica.brainerd@maine.edu to be added to the wait list.
Ages 9 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 6 attendees per session
Youth will learn about the anatomy of a squid during this hands-on dissection. Your squid will be mailed to your home before the workshop. Register by July 15.
Training Your Dairy Goat – July 24, 2:00 – 3:00 pm
All ages; open to Maine youth
We will explore the importance of training our goats to be obedient and easier to handle starting from when they are kids right up to when it’s time to milk or give medicines. We’ll talk about how & why it is important to start training as early as possible. And we’ll learn several techniques that will help your animals be safer and more enjoyable to work with. We’ll also learn how to teach goats “tricks”. As a final bonus, each participant will learn how to make and safely tie “hobbles” for their own goats from materials they already have on the farm. Register by July 17.
Virtual Touch Tank – Both July 14, 1:00-1:30 OR 2:00 – 2:30 pm
Youth ages 5 – 8; open to Maine youth; maximum 6 attendees
This session is designed for our youngest learners. Participants will visually explore and learn about some of Maine’s sea creatures. Register by July 10.
Where’s the Beef? – deadline to register July 24th
Youth of All Ages; open to enrolled Maine 4-Hers
Youth are invited to join a series of fun and engaging activities throughout the month of August to learn about beef animals. These mini explorations can be completed at your own pace and each activity will gain you points. We will see who learns the most throughout the month with a Skill-a-thon champion to be virtually crowned at the end of August.
Working Steer for Beginners – August 13, 12:00 – 1:00 pm
Ages 9 & up; open to Maine youth; maximum 25 attendees
Curious about having a working steer project? This workshop will provide the basics of how to get started: how to select your working steer team, how to train them, the equipment you will need. Register by August 6.