Massachusetts 4-H Parent/Adult Behavior Guidelines

Parents and other adults involved with the 4-H program are expected to:

  1. Treat others in a courteous, respectful manner demonstrating ethical behaviors appropriate to a positive role model for youth.
  2. Abide by all policies and guidelines of the Massachusetts 4-H program.
  3. Obey all laws of the locality, state and county including those related to the use of illegal substances and firearms.
  4. Recognize that verbal, sexual, physical abuse and/or neglect of youth is unacceptable either within or outside of the 4-H program.
  5. Treat animals humanely and teach 4-H youth to provide appropriate animal care.
  6. Operate machinery, vehicles and other equipment in a safe and responsible manner and only with a valid operator’s license and the legally required insurance coverage.
  7. Handle fundraising and finances in an ethical manner according to the policies and guidelines of the 4-H program as outlined in the MA 4-H Treasurer’s Book.
  8. Do not consume alcohol while working with youth involved in 4-H activities nor allow  4-H youth participants under your supervision to consume alcohol or illegal substances.
  9. Deliver your child on time for events and meetings and pick-up at the agreed upon time.
  10. Avoid the use of obscene, impolite and/or discriminatory language at any 4-H activity or where youth are present.
  11. Be respectful of youth and adult 4-H leaders, the lesson plan and the leadership:  allow leaders to lead.
  12. Be respectful of 4-H Educators and staff and acknowledge the authority of 4-H Educators as representatives of UMass Extension.
  13. Follow through with your commitments when you volunteer.
  14. Provide encouragement and support and allow your child to experience the process of 4-H, no matter the outcome.  Encourage children to do their personal best, not to be better than someone else.
  15. Respect youth ownership of projects.  Allow your child to do his/her own project.
  16. Allow children/your child to make mistakes, thereby fostering the learning process. Encourage children to focus on the positive in the experience or situation and turn away from the emphasis on competition.  

Consequences:  Not following these guidelines may result in an adult/parent being barred or censored from attending 4-H activities.  

Adapted June 2007 from California 4-H Youth Development Program Behavior Guidelines