Youth Leader Manual - 4-H Ontario

28 4-H ONTARIO | YOUTH LEADER PROJECT | GETTING ALONG• Avoid giving too much recognition to a few individuals when others in theclub have made accomplishments that deserve credit as well.• Study the reaction of members. Long, poorly planned activities may causea lack of interest.• Provide new experiences for the Members. Constantly be on the lookoutfor ideas – use your imagination!Because someone in your 4-H club may be the same age as you, or older, thismay present a bit of a challenge in doing activities as a Youth Leader within aclub. Be sure to respect this person’s knowledge and abilities and encouragethem to take on a Youth Leader position in a future 4-H Club. If a problem ariseswith an older member, discuss this issue with the Leaders of your club to comeup with a possible solution.For more information on the different age groups of Members, theircharacteristics and some ideas on how to work together with them, have a lookat the 4-H Volunteers’ Handbook – The 4-H Member section.…With Your LeadersFor many of you, this may be your first opportunity to work together on a teamwith adults. You will find it is a great chance for you to learn new skills.Leaders may not have the opportunity to look at this Youth Leader manual andsee the information and ideas which you have available. If your Leader has nothad this opportunity, it would be a good idea to sit down with him/her before thefirst meeting and go over the manual together or outline key points in the manualfor your Leader. Make sure the leader is aware of the requirements for you toobtain your Youth Leader Credit. Also make sure you are aware of the Leader’sexpectations for your role in the club. Communication is key!The atmosphere of your club will excel when Members feel that the Leaders, andthat includes you, are truly working together. Treat each other with respect andprofessionalism. Avoid criticizing and gossiping about Leaders or Members.Adults are sometimes a bit slower to accept change. It may frustrate you thatthey don’t show your youthful enthusiasm towards all suggestions. Offer yourideas, but listen to and consider their opinions and input.