COLUMN: 4H: Two youth programs to launch this fall

Owen County 4-H is excited to announce the launch of two engaging youth programs designed to spark creativity, curiosity and hands-on learning for local students.

Beginning this October, both regular 4-H members and Mini 4-H participants will have the opportunity to take part in monthly activities that blend education with fun.

The first program, Minds in Motion, is open to all current Owen County 4-H members in grades three through 12. This dynamic initiative will meet on the second Monday of each month from October through May, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. in the Purdue Extension-Owen County office meeting room.

Minds in Motion is designed to get young minds moving through a variety of STEM-based activities. Participants will explore topics like robotics, chemistry, engineering and biology in a hands-on, interactive environment. Planned activities include building LEGO robots, experimenting with junk drawer robotics, fluid power robotics, extracting DNA from fruit, making slime and oobleck, creating electric circuit boards and much more.

This program is all about encouraging curiosity and problem-solving in a fun and supportive setting. We want our 4-H members to explore how things work, ask questions and get excited about learning.

The second program, Mess Makers, is a returning favorite for Mini 4-H members in grades kindergarten through second. After a successful run last year, Mess Makers is back—and better than ever—with more meetings and even more messy fun! This year, the program will meet on the fourth Monday of each month, also in the Purdue Extension-Owen County office meeting room, from 4 to 5 p.m.

Mess Makers is designed to let Mini 4-H members explore their creative and messy sides through playful, hands-on activities. From crafting and experimenting to sensory play and simple science projects, each session will offer a new opportunity for discovery and fun.

Our Mini 4-H program is all about letting kids be kids. We want them to explore, create and enjoy the process of learning through play.

Both programs are free to current Owen County 4-H and Mini 4-H members. Families interested in participating are encouraged to ensure their children are enrolled in 4-H for the 2025–2026 program year. Event registration is available on 4-H Online after the program enrollment process is complete. Enrollment information and assistance are available through the Purdue Extension-Owen County office.

With these exciting offerings, Owen County 4-H continues its mission to provide meaningful, educational experiences that help youth grow into confident, capable and curious individuals.

For more information or to enroll, contact the Purdue Extension-Owen County office at 812-829-5020 or visit us at 180 S. Washington St., Spencer.