Youth Development

Having a basic understanding of youth development including growth and development, youth development theory and youth development practice is important to the work that we do.

There is a great deal of good information and coursework available to assist with professional development needs.

Professional Development.

• PRKC on-line coursework (organized by PRKC domains)
• Advancing Youth Development

Resources.  Youth Development links on the National 4-H Headquarters website can connect you to research, best practices, and information.

Other suggested resources

• CYFERnet researched based information from top Universities.
• ACT for Youth searchable youth development links.
• NYS 4-H Resource Directory   4-H resources for teachers, leaders, youth & staff.
• The 4-H Study of Positive Youth Development Powerpoint presentation by The Institute for Applied Research in Youth Development.

Other organizations with information on Youth Development

• YouthActionNet - from the International Youth Foundation
  strengthening and nurturing youth leadership worldwide
• DoSomething is a nationwide network of young people who know they can make a difference in their communities and take action to change the world around them. The
• ACT for Youth
  Strengthening New York State communities to promote positive youth development
• National Network for Youth
• NYDIC (National Youth Development Information Center)
• National Youth Leadership Council
• Youth Service America
• Youth on Board
• Americas Promise
• Benton Foundation - Resources for non-profits for developing a communications strategy and incorporating current information technology to reach public awareness and education goals.
• Child Trends
• Children's Defense Fund
• Connect for Kids
• Corporation for National Service
• Kids Count
• National Ag Day
• National Safe Kids Campaign
• Search Institute
• US Consumer Product Safety Commission
• YouthTree USA - Directory of Youth & Family programs and more