The Cottonwood Extension District 4-H Youth Development program participated in Barton Community College's Wheels and Squeals event on September 19, providing families with a hands-on learning activity designed to extend beyond the event itself.
Working alongside two Barton County 4-H members, I distributed 135 cups of homemade playdough and "Little Hands, Big Discoveries" activity cards to families attending the event. The activities encouraged children to explore, experiment, build, and create using simple materials that can be found in most homes.
The activity cards included short challenges that invited children to test ideas, solve problems, and try different approaches. Families were also provided with a QR code linking to additional activities, a playdough recipe, and online learning resources that could be accessed after the event.
One of the strengths of Extension programming is helping families discover educational opportunities within everyday experiences. Activities such as building a tower, creating a new shape, or investigating what rolls and what does not can encourage children to ask questions, make observations, and explore their own ideas. The "Little Hands, Big Discoveries" materials were designed around that concept.
Community events like Wheels and Squeals provide valuable opportunities for Extension to connect with families, share educational resources, and support learning in informal settings. We appreciate Barton Community College's Wheels and Squeals event for providing a welcoming environment where local organizations can engage with children and families throughout the community.