4-H Clover Kids Meeting

The afternoon kicked off with a discussion about being healthy.  Members visited three different stations.  To learn more about exercise and how it can be fun, members used the Wii. 

Tonya Vetter, Audubon County Program Coordinator, talked about germs and dental care.   Members conducted a hand washing experiment that compared the amount of germs on their hands using cold water vs soap and warm water.  Each member was given a washable blue die to rub all over their hands.  They were asked to wash their hands using cold water only.  Using a black light, members were able to see the amount of germs on their hands. We repeated the above step but used soap and warm water.  Using the black light again, members were able to see fewer germs on their hands.  Members learned that it is best to wash with soap and warm water before, after eating and after using the restroom. One member said, “I can’t believe that I have all of those germs on my hands.  That is gross.”

Members also learned about dental care.  Tonya Vetter showed the amount of sugar in several common drinks kids drink.  She talked about how sugary drinks and foods can cause cavities and other teeth related issues.  Vetter also talked about how some drinks can stain teeth and how important it is to brush frequently.  Members were given a stained hardboiled egg to see if the stain would come off using a tooth brush and tooth paste. 

Members also learned about MyPlate and how important it is to have a balanced meal.  Each member was too cut out or draw their favorite types of food and place them on MyPlate.  They then analyzed how healthy their plate was.         

All members were engaged in a taste testing of different fruits and vegetables.  One member commented, “Fruit is my favorite thing to eat.  I would rather eat fruit than vegetables.”

The Clover Kids program could not happen without caring adults. Organizers include Cheryl Hansen, Michelle Hansen, Val Chambers, Mandy Rath and Angel Siepker. 

Clover Kids is an ISU Extension and Outreach youth program designed especially for children with the focus being hands-on and cooperative learning in small groups. This special club includes learning activities, games and other positive experiences in a supportive, creative, challenging and fun environment.