Bring Missouri 4-H Programs to Your Classroom
Missouri 4-H is a state-wide youth development program that empowers young people through hands-on learning experiences. Our programs focus on key areas such as STEM, leadership, citizenship, life skills, and the arts. We’re dedicated to bringing innovative, practical, and engaging programming directly to your classroom—whether during school hours or in after-school programs.
Why Choose Missouri 4-H?
We understand the challenges educators face when providing interactive and current learning experiences, especially with limited time and budget. Missouri 4-H is here to help, offering affordable, research-based curriculum and programming designed to meet your needs and spark your students' interest. With support from your local MU Extension office, grants, and other resources, nearly all our programs are available at little to no cost.
Flexible Programming to Fit Your Schedule
Our diverse range of programs is adaptable for use during school hours or in after-school settings. From one-time lessons to yearlong experiences, our offerings are flexible and tailored for easy integration. While the programs listed below are developed specifically for school settings, we offer many more topic areas suitable for the classroom.
Curriculum Matched to Missouri Learning Standards
Designed for ages 5 to 18, Missouri 4-H curricula align with the Missouri State Learning Standards. Our research-based resources help streamline your planning process, giving you more time to engage meaningfully with your students.
Download the free MLS Booklet (PDF)
Download MLS Booklet: School Based Program (PDF)
Healthy living
SNAC (Student Nutrition Advisory Council)
Successful 4-H SNAC Clubs fulfill the following goals:
- SNAC Clubs focus on projects including nutrition, gardening, and/or physical activity. SNAC Club members will engage in a culminating youth-led advocacy project to promote healthy habits in their community and/or teach younger youth about healthy habits.
- SNAC Clubs incorporate leadership and citizenship skills central to 4-H.
- Recommended curriculum includes:
- Kids in the Kitchen
- Eating from the Garden
- Soccer for Success
- ICook
- Illinois Junior Chef
Civic Engagement
On My Own
Target Audience: ages 13-18
On My Own is a youth financial education program designed by University of Tennessee Extension and will be delivered by Missouri 4-H Specialist and Youth Program Associates, as well as classroom teachers that have been trained to deliver the program. During the simulation, students become the major income provider for their household which may include a spouse and/or children. Using a hypothetical occupation and income, students work through a month of expenses that include housing, utilities, transportation, insurance, food, child care, clothing, entertainment and expenses from unexpected events. Note: This project will be taught by certified leaders.
College and Career Pathways
Youth Futures
Target audience: Grades 6-12
Youth Futures: College and Careers Within Reach is a program in which caring adults and near-peer mentors inspire youth to pursue pathways; expose them to a variety of pathways; assist in accessibility to pathways; and provide opportunities to be future-ready. Facilitators use Youth Futures curriculum that includes activities in 5 general categories:
- Self-Awareness
- Exploring Pathways
- Financial Literacy
- Durable (life) Skills
- College and Career Preparation
The overall mission of Youth Futures: College and Careers Within Reach is to help youth identify and aspire to reach personal postsecondary goals based on their strengths and values and to expand accessibility to the paths leading to such goals.
Note: This project will be taught by certified leaders in a club setting.
STEM and Ag
Embryology
This curriculum brings action and experience to the classroom, using a still-air incubator. Students observe the development of the chick in the egg, hatching and post-hatch care. Each activity is grade level appropriate and has been correlated to National Science Education Standards.
4-H Stem Challenge
The 4-H STEM Challenge is a national event for 4-H science programming, bringing together youth, volunteers, and educators from all over the country to complete hands-on STEM activities. Each year the 4-H STEM Challenge is completely different, with a new topic, supplies, and resources.