The essential elements of a 4-H experience are the “best practices” that help staff and volunteers address the four basic developmental needs of youth - belonging, generosity,independence, and mastery. These elements were derived from the work of the National 4-H Impact Design Implementation Team, who reviewed the basic and applied research on characteristics of effective programs for youth development. From this process, eight elements critical to positive youth development and central to the 4-H experience emerged.
Programs