Cloverbuds: Participating In Public Events

Cloverbuds may not participate in competitive show situations. Five to seven year olds may participate with an animal in a clinic, skill-a-thon or other educational event as long as they have one-on-one assistance from a knowledgeable adult or older teen who has ultimate control of the animal.

These experiences might include:

  • Learning to lead the animal,
  • Following directions,
  • Watching the judge, and
  • Attempting to set or pose animals in position

Eight year olds may participate in a demonstration show situation which allows them to do the activities expected in an animal show, but that is not ranked competitively.

In all cases:

  • One-on-one supervision with an adult or older teen maintaining ultimate control of the animal is required,
  • Cloverbud participants will receive identical forms of recognition.

All events should take place in an area large enough to make sure all participants and their animals have room to move around without bumping into each other, but small enough to contain the animals if they should get away.  This area should be located away from anything that would distract the child or scare the animals.  Large show ring areas should be made smaller by using portable fencing. If the group is too large for each child to have a safe space, the group should be divided up.

Sales and auction activities are not appropriate for this age group.

In some cases, fairs and other non-4-H organizations may offer activities for 5 to 8 year olds which are not consistent with Maine Cloverbud policies.  Participation in these events is the decision of the member’s family and is not considered a Maine 4-H Youth Development activity.  It is important for the sponsoring unit to take every possible precaution to insure the safety of the child.  Parents and volunteers must understand that liability for an accident may rest with the sponsoring agency and individuals who allowed the child to show.