Find your passion with 4-H programs this summer
From pet care to microbiology to welding, the Tri-County 4-H program has something to offer your family this summer. These interactive opportunities are designed to help youth to grow in a specific area of study or to try something new.
"The workshops, special interest clubs or camps have a fun, hands-on approach that builds knowledge and skills," said Donna Nuger, 4-H Youth Educator with University of Illinois Extension of DuPage, Kane and Kendall Counties.
"A multisession program provides more intense training, while single-session workshops focus on a specific project. We also work hard to keep the fun up and costs down."
These learning opportunities feature topics such as microbiology, sewing, pet care, public speaking, and photography.
• "Microbe Mysteries" will let you grow cultures, examine them under a microscope, and learn about beneficial and harmful microbes from 3-4:30 p.m. June 17-19 at U of I Extension-Kendall County, 7775B Route 47 in Yorkville. Learn about careers in microbiology from professionals. This interactive, three-part workshop is designed for youth entering fifth to ninth grades. Participants will learn about basic microbiology, role of microbes, growing cultures, using a microscope, how germs spread, careers in microbiology and more. Cost is $15. Registration closes June 7 or when the class reaches capacity. Youth do not need to be current 4-H members to register. Contact Extension Educator Donna Nuger at (630) 584-6166 or dnuger@illinois.edu, or your local office.
• Join a beginner-level Sewing Workshop Series from 9 to 11 a.m. June 11, 13 and 18 at U of I Extension-Kendall County, 7775B Route 47 in Yorkville. Learn how to use your sewing machine and practice skills in this multisession program. Each participant will create a Level 1 sewing project. The first meeting, learn to thread the machine, sew a consistent seam, practice sewing straight and curved seams on a community service project. If you have your own pattern, fabric and supplies, you can bring them to get started. Participants will provide their own fabric and supplies for the final project. You will need to bring your own machine to work on. If you don't have one, plan to borrow one from a neighbor or family member. This series is taught by 4-H volunteers and teens and is open to ages 8 to 18. It is $10. Contact Kim Eisnaugle at keisnaug@illinois.edu or 630-553-5823.
Learning By Doing
"Learning By Doing" is offering workshops on "Caring for Creepy Crawly Creatures," Finding Your Voice" and "Taking Award-Winning Photos." Registration closes one week before the workshop. Contact Kim Eisnaugle, 4-H program coordinator, at (630) 553-5823 or keisnaug@illinois.edu.
• Youth ages 8-18 can learn about broadcasting and practice public speaking by recording a public service announcement in "Finding Your Voice (Broadcasting)" from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 12, at WSPY, 16524 Frazier Road in Plano. Free.
• Learn about caring for reptiles and amphibians from an experienced 4-H Teen Science Ambassador in "Caring for Creepy Crawly Creatures" from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 18, at U of I Extension, 7775B Route 47 in Yorkville. Great for any youth, age 10 to 18, interested in animal science, vet science, or small pets. Cost is $3.
• Youth ages 8 to 18 can learn about camera settings, lighting, filters, and editing for better photographs in "Taking Award-Winning Photos" from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 18, at U of I Extension, 7775B Route 47 in Yorkville. Plus, 4-H'ers can review exhibit requirements and updates. Cost is $3.
To learn more about each or to register, visit go.illinois.edu/summer4Hdkk.
If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in these programs, contact your local University of Illinois Extension office. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your access needs.