Extension Educator Savannah Scott outlines strategies for engaging homeschool co-ops to expand youth program reach and increase collaborative learning opportunities.
YD Insight
Belonging grows through small, consistent actions — greetings, check‑ins and strengths‑based feedback — that research shows help young people feel seen, valued and connected.
Jennifer Skuza, youth development department head and associate dean, reflects on the collaborative partnership work in Kenya that reshaped her team's understanding of youth development across contexts.
Volunteer managers need to look beyond their fixed menu of programming to serve up volunteer opportunities that accommodate different levels of commitment and interest, satisfying appetites of all sizes.
Wellbeing empowers youth development professionals to sustain their energy, prevent burnout and deliver high‑quality programs that prepare youth for work and life.
Extension Educator Karyn Santl offers reflection questions to help youth development staff evaluate and strengthen the quality of their programs.
Michelle Lauren Anderson, a 4-H program operations specialist, as well as a trauma-informed coach and author, discusses the impact of trauma on youth and how youth development programs can help them move from survivor to thriver.
Short demonstration videos shown before hands-on activities help youth feel confident and ready to learn — supporting engagement, inclusion and quality experiential learning.
From hidden details to everyday celebrations, Disney quietly demonstrates what it means to honor youth voice, belonging and joy. These insights can reshape how we design our own youth programs.
Extension Educator Karyn Santl shares resources to help youth develop goal-setting skills, equipping them for lifelong success.