This summer, Flagler County youth had a chance to explore their passions and learn new things through Flagler County 4-H Summer Day Camps. Throughout June and July, we offered a variety of camps for ages 5 to 18. 4-H uses a “learn by doing” approach, so each camp provided hands-on, fun learning experiences in many different subject areas.

We kicked off the summer with Sewing Day Camps. Beginner and advanced crafters learned about sewing tools and techniques from experienced volunteers. Campers completed projects such as pillowcases, totes, place mats, small quilts, and more. This camp was so popular with our youth, Flagler County will be starting a year round 4-H Club for members ages 8-18 interested in sewing and craft projects.

Marine Science Camp was also a huge hit. For this camp, we explored Flagler County’s marine and coastal ecosystems. We spent most of our first day at Betty Steflik Memorial Preserve, where we explored the salt marshes. Campers learned how to identify mangroves and marsh plants in our estuaries. We also came across some wildlife at the preserve, including fiddler crabs and gopher tortoises. On day two, we visited the University of Florida’s Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience. While at the lab, we collected and observed plankton samples. Campers discovered all sorts of interesting creatures in their larval stages and studied them through microscopes. We spent the last day of camp at Bay Drive Park learning about the species of sea turtles that live in Flagler County, how they nest, and what we can do to help protect them. Throughout the camp, we also learned about tides, food webs, and even scientific taxonomy.

At Food, Fun, & Fitness Camp, youth learned the learned the basics of food safety and wellness. They made cookies and bread from scratch and learned all about food preservation by making homemade pickles and jelly. We didn’t forget about outdoor cooking. Campers learned all about grilling while they wrapped up the week with a cookout topped off with making homemade ice cream. Each day campers practiced incorporating fitness into their daily lives in a fun way!

At Arts & Crafts Camp, youth had the opportunity to bring out their creative side and get a little messy. Campers had a great time making various works of art to take home and share with family and friends.

Although summer is over, the 4-H opportunities continue. We have several Flagler County 4-H Clubs accepting new members for the 2022-2023 4-H year. Available clubs focus on projects such as livestock, sewing, forestry, and more! Registration for new members begins September 1, 2022.

For more information and updates on our 4-H program, follow our Facebook Page or contact our office 386-437-7464

UF/IFAS Extension, University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agriculture Sciences – An Equal Opportunity Institution.

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