June 16, 2025
4-H Cloverbuds and the County Fair
As we approach county fair season, the question is asked, "What about Cloverbuds and livestock?".
The Kansas 4-H Cloverbud program is a non-competitive youth development opportunity designed specifically for 5 and 6-year-old youth.
While animals and the animal subject matter can contribute to the objectives of 4-H Cloverbuds, for safety, liability, and competitive reasons, there are some necessary restrictions. Cloverbuds are not permitted to show livestock. Kansas 4-H does not sponsor or support pee-wee events or exhibitions (pee-wee refers to non-4-H age youth).
The goals for Kansas 4-H Cloverbuds include:
Self-understanding skills (Initiating independence and self-direction)
Social skills (Getting along with others)
Decision-making skills (Making positive choices)
Learning skills (Learning to learn)
Mastering physical skills (Enjoying constructive and creative play)
Additionally, several resources are available to help with 4-H Cloverbud programming. The 4-H Cloverbuds webpage can be found by going to https://www.kansas4-h.org > About 4-H > Clubs and Programs > Cloverbuds (5-6 Year Olds).
Please refer to Section 14 of the Kansas 4-H Policy for further details about the 4-H Cloverbud program. Section 14.4.2 addresses Cloverbuds and animals specifically.
For questions regarding 4-H Cloverbuds, please reach out to your Regional 4-H Extension Specialist.