Getting a Smart Start on 4-H

  Everywhere you looked at Biggs Park Mall today all you could see were parents, grandparents and children.  They weren't there shopping for clothes, they were shopping for learning opportunities.  Smart Start Day is an annual event that brings youth service providers together to showcase what they provide.  While talking with the parents there is usually some type of activity to keep the youth busy and happy.
  This year the Robeson County 4-H table had a very special activity.  We had 4-H Lego members for the youth to get creative with.  Using ink pads and pencil erasers the youth used a pointillism technique to give their Lego people lots of character.
  Parents had the chance to learn more about the 4-H program and Summer Opportunities that are available for 5-18 year olds.  Smart Start served youth under the age of 5.  That makes 4-H a natural partner as the youth graduated from their program to move into ours.  Both programs concentrate on various learning styles and enjoy having hands on activities to allow youth to discover new skills that will make them successful as they grow up.
  This year almost 500 people attended the annual event.  Besides hands on activities from a multitude of youth organizations there was also face painting, entertainment, and free food given out.  Truman was on hand for photos and the Chik fil-A Cow came through offering high fives to everyone there.  All in all it was a fun day and hopefully we will see one or two of those ageing out of Smart Start who are now old enough to enjoy our 4-H program, this summer.