Cowfeathers Farm to Foxcroft Farm: Demonstrate it. 4-H style.

In 4-H, each member is required to do a Demonstration. This is a talk, with or without technology and props that is meant to be informative in some manner. These Demonstrations are done before the club each year. I really enjoy this aspect of the 4-H experience. When kids first become a 4-Her, the idea of doing a Demonstration can be intimidating. For some kids, even after several years it can make them nervous. But I find that invariably, nervous or not, they do become much better public speakers. Some of them become fantastic public speakers, and no doubt, this facet of 4-H contributes to future successes.
The Demonstrations have huge variations in complexity and delivery. Almost without exception, I learn something from everyone. The youngest members of the club, called "Cloverbuds", also give Demonstrations. Adorable. I've learned how to make cut out peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, how to make "goop", the steps to excellent chocolate milk and how to bottle feed a lamb. Youngest once demonstrated how to make sushi. He stood on a chair to reach the table, donned an apron and went about explaining how to fill the nori and roll it into sushi. He chose to fill his sushi with cucumber, crab and avocado. Pretty certain that was a new one for most of the folks watching. Then, he fearlessly fielded questions about making sushi. His first demonstration, at age 4, he enthusiastically explained the solar system, presenting his own version made from Styrofoam balls. Again, he had to stand on a chair to be seen. I stood behind him, holding on, as he was still likely to have "leaps" of excitement and be surprised upon landing. Jupiter was his favorite planet, and he expounded on its virtues.
Now, a full fledged 4-Her, he has selected to do his Demonstration on "Amazing, Quick Breads". I can't wait to hear what that's about. Last night while I was working, he made a few samples to take with him. While trying to get to sleep last night, the room held the sweet smell of pumpkin bread, making me hungry.
Eldest is doing a power point presentation on Careers in Pediatrics. She apparently developed this in her Infotech class at school. Goodness knows that's not my forte( the powerpoint- I do love Veterinary Pediatrics!).
Middlest, well, hmmm. I think she's deciding to wing it a bit. And, I don't mean doing another Demonstration on the parts of a chicken.
Eldest and Youngest ( with some coercion) have signed up to do their Demonstrations at the County Communications Contest. Yep, even more public speaking experience. Just makes it easier. Middlest? Well, maybe next year. Perhaps by then she'll have a topic.