| Policies and Guidelines |
Maine 4-H Program |
Based on research that indicates cooperation and competition are both learned behaviors, all 4‑H members have access to educational activities that teach both cooperative and competitive skills. Educational activities are designed to meet the developmental needs of youth at different developmental stages.
Activities and programs for youth age 5 to 8 emphasize the development of cooperative skills. 4‑H members at this level should not engage in individual one-on-one competitions. Appropriate types of competition for members of this age include the Danish system, group competitions, and other similar activities.
Programs designed for youth age 9 to 18 should provide an age-appropriate mix of activities that teach both cooperative and competitive skills. Appropriate types of competition for members of this age include the Danish system, self‑improvement, one-on-one competition, and other similar activities.