In Waupaca County, youth in kindergarten through second grade, known as Cloverbuds in 4-H, are learning financial wellness through a workshop designed just for them. 

In the recent workshop, created with the county’s educator from the UW-Madison Division of Extension Human Development and Relationships, youth were read a story and then led in a discussion about needs versus wants. Each child was given a book to take home. Families then rotated between activity stations focused on saving, coloring sheets, and decorating a wooden bank to take home. For the last station, youth practiced decision making. Each participant was given 20 pennies to buy snack items at different prices. Then they put any unused pennies in their bank.  

The energy in the room was exciting and the adults were actively engaged with the youth. Some parents commented on how much they appreciated workshops for younger members. While all ages together at club and project meetings is valuable, it’s also important to have opportunities for the younger members to and focus on projects geared toward their age group. 4-H Cloverbud members represent 24 percent of Waupaca County’s community club enrollment. 

In response, Waupaca County 4-H has planned Cloverbud project workshops in recent years in alignment with different project areas and interests, known as ‘sparks.’ The workshops, which average from 20-30 youth, are also opportunities to help participants learn more about 4-H.