Recordkeeping in 4-H
Recordkeeping is a Skill for Living
4-H record requirements vary among counties, clubs and projects. 4-H records help youth:
- establish good organizing and planning habits;
- evaluate economic growth;
- gain satisfaction and motivation from progress;
- improve written communication skills;
- improve decision making and priority setting skills; and
- establish positive direction and identify goals.
4-H members do not learn these skills automatically. Younger 4-H’ers need practice, encouragement and help in the record keeping process.
4-H records are very valuable at the local project and club level:
- as evidence of accomplishments (for employment, family awareness, recognition, goal setting, etc.);
- as a tool for helping leaders and other youth know the young person better; and
- as a tool for involving the family in the youth’s goals and accomplishments.
4-H scrapbooks – including video, audio, and other media – can also be a fun and useful way to keep records of activities and projects.
Project Record forms are available online.