4-H & YOUTH — At 4-H Lock-In, Teen Council 4-H’ers “Inspire Kids to Do”

The craft committee led in making paper-bag safari vests, paper-plate-and-bowl safari hats, toilet-paper-tube binoculars and animal masks.
The craft committee led in making paper-bag safari vests, paper-plate-and-bowl safari hats, toilet-paper-tube binoculars and animal masks.

In January 2020, 28 4-H Teen Council members organized and led the overnight 4-H Lock-In for 27 4th and 5th graders. This year, teens chose the theme, “Safari — 4-H Style,” and divided into four committees: games, education, crafts and food. At the Lock-In, attendees rotated through each of the four groups, made friends, slept a little and had lots of fun. More photos are at http://www.flickr.com/ photos/unlextlanco/albums. Here’s what some of the teens said about this year’s 4-H Lock-In.

FUN, FRIENDS AND FOOD
“The 2020 Lock-In was a blast for both youth and teens. The Safari theme was engaging and fun for the youth. They started the night off with large group games to break the ice and get to know each other. Then they made crafts, ate food, played games and learned new things. They ended the night with movies. The kids were able to enjoy themselves and make many new friends. The teens had fun as well, and the Lock-In provided us with a great leadership opportunity.”
—Allyson Korus

TEACHING AND LEARNING
“I always look forward to teaching and getting to know the young kids that are excited to be at the Lock-In. The youth involved played fun games that taught them how to communicate with others. I had a blast teaching them something new about the plants and wildlife that live in a safari jungle. The Lock-In was a great time and I am looking forward to next year.”
—Nathan Gabel

WORTH THE EFFORT
“Every year the Lock-In never fails to be an educational yet enjoyable experience. The kids got to make new friends and visited different committees led by the teens. Teen Council had spent several months into planning the night and it’s always worth the effort!”
—Caitlyn Barry