Youth Leader Manual - 4-H Ontario

4-H ONTARIO | YOUTH LEADER PROJECT | GETTING ALONG27Getting Along……With Your MembersMany of your Club Members will be younger than you are. Your success inworking with other Members will depend largely on how well you meet theirneeds. You should, therefore, know something about them and how they act.Every person is an individual, no matter his/her age. Not all persons of the sameage group will be alike. Some characteristics common to younger members areas follows:• Boys and girls of this age tend to belong to a “group.” They usually preferboys’ or girls’ groups rather than mixed groups.• This age group wants and needs guidance.• Work should be laid out in small amounts and be ready to help. Theirinterest span is short, therefore constant motivation is necessary.• Younger 4-H members can be easily motivated and are eager andenthusiastic• Recognition is very import to the younger 4-H Member. He/she needsconstant encouragement if his/her interest is to be maintained. Praise isvery important.• Younger Members tend to “idolize” you as an older Member and as aYouth Leader. They tend to follow your example. Thus, it is very importantto show enthusiasm, good sportsmanship and a good attitude towardswork.• In working with younger Members, some of the following points may behelpful:• Provide an opportunity for everyone to participate. No one likes to be leftout.• Think of each person in terms of interest and maturity. What did you like todo at that age?