Showing Dairy

All four of our kids enjoy showing their 4H animals at local and regional fairs and shows. Both Leslie and Jeremy grew up showing through the 4H program, and they wanted their kids to have the same positive experiences with 4H as they did. The 4H motto is “Learn by doing”, and our kids truly do just that. They work with their 4H animals each and every day, and care for them, in addition to helping out with many other aspects of both the farm and the creamery. 4H gives kids the opportunity to show off their animals to the public and to other people within the dairy industry.

Participating in 4H has taught our kids numerous important life skills. Our oldest, Lincoln says that through 4H he has learned and practiced teamwork, leadership, perseverance and patience. By working with a heifer all year, the kids need to be patient and persevere while teaching the animal skills she needs to in order to succeed in the show ring. Like people, animals have good days and bad days. The kids learn to manage and care for them every single day, regardless of the animals attitude or any other factors. In addition to showing, 4H allows the kids to participate in other dairy related activities such as dairy judging and dairy quiz bowl. The kids have won top honors at many of these competitions and enjoy putting their dairy knowledge to the test. Additionally, a 4H club requires kids to work in groups with other 4Hers, as well as communicate with their adult leaders and mentors. This gives them important experiences that strengthen their character, and teach them communication, leadership, and teamwork skills essential to being positive contributors to their community..