4-H Cloverbuds (Ages 5-7)

4-H can start for youth at the age of 5.

Our youngest 4-H’ers are just beginning their exciting journey, and while some project areas are geared toward older youth, there are still countless opportunities for them to explore, grow, and have fun! 4-H offers engaging, age-appropriate activities that spark curiosity, build confidence, and lay the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.

Cloverbuds is all about joyful discovery, hands-on learning, and building friendships! The focus is on participation, teamwork, and personal growth—rather than competition. Young 4-H’ers might explore nutrition by preparing simple, tasty snacks, plant seeds and nurture them as they grow, or lend a hand with animal care under careful supervision.

It’s also a wonderful chance for older youth to step into leadership roles, mentoring younger members and helping them thrive as they begin their 4-H journey. These early experiences lay the foundation for a future filled with confidence, curiosity, and community spirit.

Safety is always a top priority, and every activity is thoughtfully designed to be developmentally appropriate, ensuring that Cloverbuds feel supported, inspired, and ready to grow!

*Individuals not associated with MSU Extension/4-H, please be sure to consult the policies and procedures related to programming with 5-7 year olds within your organization.

Michigan 4-H Cloverbud Age Policy

Michigan 4-H Cloverbud Learning Guidelines

Michigan 4-H Cloverbud FAQ

Cloverbud Camp Resources

MSU Extension utilizes 4-H Cloverbud Camps as a developmentally appropriate experience that targets youth ages 5-7 years old. The following fact sheets are designed to help MSU Extension staff and volunteers, as well as other youth development professionals, plan a safe and positive experience for 5-7 year olds.

4-H Cloverbud Community Service Series

4-H Cloverbud Animal Science Snap Shot Sheets

4-H Cloverbud Animal Science Record Book

Science Activities for Young Minds

Heads In, Hearts In: Resources

Heads In, Hearts In: Early Childhood Activities

The Heads In, Hearts In family enrichment program encourages families to use their minds as a tool to expand their knowledge around a variety of topic areas. This packet contains all 15 early childhood activities.
Heads In, Hearts In: Engineering Activities

The Heads In, Hearts In family enrichment program encourages families to use their minds as a tool to expand their knowledge around a variety of topic areas. This packet contains all 16 engineering activities.
Heads In, Hearts In: Family Engagement Activities

The Heads In, Hearts In family enrichment program encourages families to use their minds as a tool to expand their knowledge around a variety of topics. By creating a shared educational experience, the family unit will work, grow and learn together.
Heads In, Hearts In: Healthy Living Activities

The Heads In, Hearts In family enrichment program encourages families to use their minds as a tool to expand their knowledge around a variety of topic areas. This packet contains all 15 healthy living activities.
Heads In, Hearts In: Literacy Activities

The Heads In, Hearts In family enrichment program encourages families to use their minds (putting their “heads in”) as a tool to expand their knowledge around literacy. This packet contains all 16 literacy activities.