University of Florida

Recognition for Excellence Handbook

 

awards logoRecognition is an important part of the 4-H experience. Youth need to know how well they contribute to the group and learn new skills. Recognizing their individual and group efforts provides them with feedback. Youth development professionals must be skilled in providing recognition that supports growth and in training staff to understand and use recognition appropriately.

Basic Beliefs about Recognition in 4-H Youth Development Programs

Recognition for 4-H youth and volunteers is based on the following beliefs:


  • Recognition is a basic human need.
  • Recognition builds positive self-esteem (for competencies demonstrated).
  • A balance between intrinsic (self-evaluation) and extrinsic (rewards given by others) recognition is essential.
  • Everyone needs to be recognized at some time for their efforts.
  • Recognition is more meaningful when it occurs soon after it is earned and is related to a specific task.
  • Appropriate recognition for an individual varies depending on their age, past experiences, family lifestyle, community and cultural heritage.
  • Recognition is more meaningful when given by someone closely related to the person.
  • Recognition motivates people to excel and take worthwhile risks.
  • Individual choices in learning and participation need to be allowed and recognized.

Recognition and awards programming in 4-H is a strategy for helping people become more capable and competent. Through the acknowledgement, affirmation and positive reinforcement of each person’s effort, feelings of competence and capability increase and participation continues.

For questions about this program contact State Events Office at 352-392-4308.

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