Competencies and Essential Elements

Research has identified five competency areas that
youth must master for positive development and
preparation for adulthood.

The overall goals of the 4-H Youth Development
Program can be illustrated and defined through the
four Essential Elements representing the four H’s—
head, heart, hands and health and the basic needs
and competencies of youth. It is based on research
finding of these four types of needs (Kress, 2003)