Heather Haines, 4-H Agent, UGA Extension Forsyth County
Where Curiosity Grows: 4-H Launches Fall Programs for Youth
Parents looking for meaningful, educational, and exciting opportunities for their children this fall won’t have to look far. Forsyth County 4-H is offering a full calendar of programs that combine hands-on learning, skill-building, and plenty of fun. From nature exploration and cooking to life skills and STEM challenges, 4-H has something for every age and interest. The Forsyth County 4-H Office, located at 5110 Piney Grove Road in Cumming, 30040, is now enrolling youth for programs taking place throughout the remainder of the year.
4-H stands out from other youth development organizations through its hands-on, experiential learning approach that helps youth build real-world skills by doing, not just observing. The program emphasizes strong youth-adult partnerships, allowing young people to lead with the guidance and support of caring mentors. With a wide range of programming, including agriculture, STEM, healthy living, and the arts, 4-H offers something for everyone. Leadership development is built into every stage, with opportunities that grow alongside the youth, from early experiences as Cloverbuds to teen leadership and statewide involvement. Backed by land-grant universities and the Cooperative Extension System, 4-H delivers research-based curriculum grounded in the latest best practices. The program places a strong focus on long-term impact, preparing youth to succeed academically, lead in their communities, and make healthy, informed choices. Service learning is also central to the 4-H experience, encouraging youth to give back and become active, engaged citizens.
Wilderness Wonders Family Festival – August 9
Get ready for a wild adventure at Wilderness Wonders, a free, family-friendly event hosted in partnership with Forsyth County Parks & Recreation and Forsyth County Extension / 4-H. From 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Sawnee Mountain Preserve Visitor Center, families can meet birds of prey, take a hike, play games, and learn what makes the forest ecosystem so special. A live falconry presentation featuring Majesty the golden eagle is sure to be a highlight. This is also a great opportunity to meet the Extension staff and many of the office’s volunteers. Pre-registration in not required for this event.
Junior Naturalists Club
Due to overwhelming interest in natural resources, Forsyth County 4-H has expanded its Conservation Club into Junior Naturalists. Open to students in 4th–12th grade, this monthly club brings in expert speakers and meets at different outdoor locations to provide hands-on environmental learning. Meetings are held the second Monday of each month from 6–7 PM, September-March. Annual registration is $10.
Stirring Up Skills: 4-H Cooking Series
Middle and high school students can step into the kitchen with confidence through Stirring Up Skills, a three-part cooking series focused on practical life skills. The first session, “Kitchen Confidence,” will be held on August 26 from 6–8 PM, covering knife safety, measuring, and basic cooking techniques. Session 2 will be held in December and focuses on meal planning and reading nutrition labels. The final session will be held in May and focus on flavor pairings, plating, and communication. Each session is $50 and offers valuable experience in nutrition, budgeting, and food preparation.
LifeSmarts: Real-World Skills, Fast-Paced Fun
For students who enjoy trivia, making smart choices, or learning about the real world, LifeSmarts is a great new option. This competition-based team builds knowledge in finance, consumer rights, health, technology, and the environment. Curious students and families are invited to an interest meeting on Monday, September 15 from 6:30–7:30 PM at the 4-H Office.
Consumer Judging: Shop Smart
From choosing the best headphones to creating an agriculture-themed commercial, Consumer Judging helps students learn to make smart purchases and sharpen their critical thinking. Practices are Monday nights, September 29 through October 27, from 6:30–7:30 PM. The district contest is held on November 3 in Gainesville. Open to 4th–12th grade youth. Cost is $10.
4-H Community Club: Your Monthly 4-H Connection
Held the second Tuesday of each month from 7–8 PM at the 4-H Office, Community Club is open to all 4th–12th graders in Forsyth County. This free club keeps youth informed about upcoming events and offers leadership, service, and public speaking opportunities in a fun, welcoming setting.
Cloverbuds: Big Fun for Little Learners
Even the youngest 4-H’ers can get involved! Cloverbuds is a special club for K–3rd grade students that meets 5:30-6:30 PM at our office. This year, the focus is on adaptations in nature, with fun activities designed to spark curiosity and creativity. Annual registration is $10.
Mission Make-It: STEM Day at Rock Eagle – September 13
Youth in 6th–8th grade are invited to Mission Make-It, a full day of hands-on STEM challenges, guest speakers, and interactive exhibits at Rock Eagle 4-H Center. Transportation, lunch, and materials are included in the $35 fee. Space is limited—register early!
Fall on the Farm at the Atlanta History Center – September 20
Students in 4th–6th grade won’t want to miss Fall on the Farm at the Atlanta History Center, a fun-filled day of living history, outdoor exploration, and fall-themed activities. Cost is $25, and spots will fill quickly! Make the Most of Your Child’s School Year with 4-H
Whether your child is exploring the outdoors, building kitchen skills, or preparing for competition, Forsyth County 4-H offers high-quality programs that promote independence, leadership, and curiosity.