Foundations of Positive Youth Development for 4-H Professionals

This virtual course provides educators with a comprehensive introduction to the science and practice of PYD in 4-H. It’s recommended for all 4-H professionals interested in developing a fundamental understanding of PYD and the 4-H Thriving Model. It’s especially recommended for those within the first three years of their 4-H careers, including educators, specialists, and program leaders. 

Each topic of the course will be broken into three parts:  

Self-Paced Learning: To prepare for and support their understanding during the Live Course Sessions, participants will engage with self-paced learning materials. Participants should set aside 2 hours during the week before each topic’s Live Course Session to complete this Self-Paced Learning. 

Live Course Sessions: Participants will attend a 2-hour live session for each course topic. Each session will expand on the scheduled topic through direct instruction and relate to the Self-Paced Learning.  

Live Connect Apply Practice Sessions: In the Live Connect Apply Practice Sessions, participants will gain practical tools to connect PYD theory to their everyday work, as well as the support and camaraderie of fellow participants for ongoing encouragement and shared learning. 

This course contains 18 hours of virtual learning taking place over 7.5 weeks and will include the following topics: Sparks, Belonging, and Developmental Relationships.

4-H PYD Academy equips 4-H and other youth development professionals with the essential knowledge and skills to plan, implement, and evaluate high-quality youth development programs that help youth thrive. 4-H PYD Academy is an output of the 4-H PLWG Chartered Committee on Positive Youth Development. 4-H PYD Academy learning opportunities are convened and supported by National 4-H Council in collaboration with Extension 4-H professionals from across the country.