Youth Development

All Youth Development Content
Father and son fishing at Horsetheif Lake in Western South Dakota during early fall.

4-H Outdoor Challenge

There are plenty of reasons for get outside more, but there are also great benefits for families to get outdoors this fall. SDSU Extension 4-H is partnering with other University Extension programs around the country, and we are encouraging families to get outdoors.

Group of youth standing atop a hill

4-H Outdoor Education

The term ‘outdoor education’ refers to a wide range of experiential education in, for, and about the outdoors. Outdoor education experiences range from single events to year-long programs for youth in South Dakota.

Three canoes in a body of water with the Black Hills in the background
Nov 13 - 15

4-H Outdoor Challenge

The 4-H Outdoor Challenge encourages 4-H members and families to take a break from their normal routine and spend time outdoors. The challenge runs from November 13-15.

Two boys working on a project.

Clover Connect

Youth across South Dakota, especially in rural areas, benefit from opportunities to explore their interests, build skills and start imagining what their future could look like. Clover Connect brings SDSU and learning opportunities to communities across South Dakota.

Teen girls and boy arm-in-arm talking with each other.

Adulting: Free Trial

Adulting: Free Trial is a one-day event for high school students- ideally, sophomore, juniors or seniors.

A white, four-dimensional 4-H clover sits next to votive candles as a table centerpiece

SD 4-H welcomes new Shooting Sports and Outdoor Education Field Specialist

September 15, 2026

South Dakota 4-H, a program of South Dakota State University Extension, is pleased to welcome Karen Gardner as a new SDSU Extension 4-H Shooting Sports and Outdoor Education Field Specialist.

People eat ice cream under a large tent

SDSU Extension experts to attend 2026 Dakotafest

July 22, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension experts will attend the 2026 Dakotafest trade show in Mitchell, providing educational resources and hands-on activities for a variety of topics.

Three young girls weighing sugar on a kitchen scale.

Life Skills Passport Curriculum

Curriculum to help youth and young adults learn applicable life skills.

Two children making fresh pasta

Beyond Ready

4-H is equipped to support youth in becoming Beyond Ready – prepared to plan and navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

chalkboard background with puzzle pieces and lightbulb on it

Operation Occupation: Unlock Your Potential

Operation Occupation aims to give young people an insight into various career opportunities right from their screens. The interactive gaming experience allows youth to explore different industries and specific career paths while participating in a virtual escape room format.