In January 2019, 38 4-H Teen Council members organized and led the overnight 4-H Lock-In for 38 4th and 5th graders. This year, teens chose the theme, “Journey to the Stars,” and divided into four groups: 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 https://www.flickr.com/photos/unlextlanco/albums/72157707213966955.
Here’s what some of the teens said about this year’s 4-H Lock-In.
VALUABLE LEADERSHIP SKILLS
This year’s Lock-In was a lot of fun for both the teens and kids attending. We chose the theme “Journey through the Stars” which lent itself to many fun games, crafts and food. My favorite being the pom-pom aliens! For the teens planning the event, the Lock-In provides a great learning opportunity. We get to learn valuable leadership and organization skills in addition to learning how to interact with younger kids. For the 4th and 5th graders attending, the Lock-In is a fun event in which they get to make memories with their friends, meet new people and participate in engaging activities. I saw many smiles all throughout the night from everyone involved, and I am excited for next year’s Lock-In!
—Abigail Kreifels
POSITIVE LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
A long time ago, when I was in fourth and fifth grade, I participated in the 4-H Lock-In. From my young eyes, the teen leaders seemed so organized, ready for fun and were young people I admired. Now I am a leader of these activities, promoting learning in a fun way. The 4-H Lock-In brings together positive learning opportunities and a chance to make new friends. It’s been a great experience both as a participant and as a teen leader.
—John Swotek
FRIENDS AND FUN
We took a journey to the stars at this year’s Lock-In. Along the way, the 4th and 5th graders played games, made crafts, had some yummy snacks and learned about space and planets. The youth made new friends and learned something new along the way. The teens had been working since November to make this a fun and enjoyable event. We had a blast interacting with the youth and seeing our hard work pay off. It’s the highlight of the year for Teen Council!
—Ellie Babcock