Don't forget to pick up a new Clover or check with your 4-H Leader.

As you look at the new Illinois Clover you will notice many changes. Page 3 explains some of those changes and page 4 provides you with some guidelines on 'How to Use The Illinois Clover.' Please take a few minutes to read closely and carefully pages 3 and 4. Be sure to note the new symbol for new projects and the 'W' symbol for project resources available online.

Enjoy your new clover and don't forget all the valuable information beginning on pg 46 though the end of the book.

October 5-11

With 4-H's connection to environmental efforts, youth participating in environmental science, and 4-H's new partnership with Nickelodeon's The Big Green Help, "Keeping it Green" shows how 4-H is bridging old ideas with new to teach youth environmental stewardship and connecting youth to science-related issues. The green theme also can showcase 4-H beyond the environmental focus as 4-H's green brand is a direct connection to the organization as a whole.

This is an excellent time to help promote 4-H!

It is a great time to recruit new members and invite current members to re-enroll in your 4-H club. All 4-H clubs are encouraged to promote 4-H through window displays in local businesses, posters, media releases, mayoral proclamations, and other special events and activities. Plan some special club activities. Wear your 4-H shirts to school. Contact the office to let us know your club plans for National 4-H Week so that we can put the information in the October Newsletter.

September is the month of new beginnings for young people starting school, especially our youngest scholars entering pre-school or kindergarten. Parents want their children to have a positive school experience, especially for those just beginning their school journey. As a result, we are anxious for a daily update and with all the details!

While admittedly, the update isn't always easy to follow, taking time to understand what your child is trying to share gives them an opportunity to develop communication skills and boost their self-esteem. In addition, it gives us an opportunity to share some special time and perhaps some special memories, some even worthy of writing down!

As your new student relates the day, do not interrupt, except to ask questions for clarification. Refrain from judging prematurely. Listen first, and try to decide what your child is really saying; watching for what is not being said! Children can recognize when we are not listening. Use your child's name, sit at their eye level, and use a calm, soft voice.

During these important school years, children will ask many questions in return, usually beginning with the word "Why?" Answer honestly. Choose words carefully and provide no more information than is asked. In some cases, less is more. Some questions are a way to confirm that thinking is correct and some questions may only require support or encouragement, while some just call for some extra attention.

Listening attentively to your child will not only develop their communication skills, but may help ours as well.

Have a Great Year!

- Christine Hill, U of I Extension Youth Development Educator

The deadline to enroll in projects is May 1 and the project choice form was sent out in the September newsletter.

The Saline County 4-H Federation will be at the Past to Present Festival again this year to take up food for the local Christian Community Food Pantry. It is part of the 4-H Can Make A Difference. Any non-perishable food will be greatly appreciated.

Located at the Saline County Fairgrounds, Harrisburg

Golconda Explorers 4-H club is in need of a leader, or co-leaders.

If you know of anyone who might be interested in volunteering to lead this club, please contact the Extension office.

Saline County 4-H Federation will be holding their first Diaper Derby Crawling Contest at Eldorado Town & Country Days on September 20 at 9:30-10:00am.

Entry fee is $5.

Ages: 6-12 months & over 12 months to 18 months

You may call the Extension office to enter at 683-8555 or 287-8673 or 252-8391.