Effectiveness of the 4-H program as perceived by parents of 4-H participants

This study examined the effectiveness of the 4-H program as perceived by parents of program participants. A descriptive-correlational designed was employed, with data collected using a mail survey. Parents perceived 4-H as an effective organzation in teaching life skills to youth. Significant relationships were found between parents' skills and skills outh learn in 4-H. Two variables--skills and belonging--explained 28.8 percent of the variance in youth life skills, suggesting when parents view their children's participation in 4-H is important and helps demonstrate the importance of life skills, youth learn needed life skills--cmmunications, decision making and goal setting.