There are a few things that 4-H is known for, Animals, Leadership, and Record Keeping. You can ask any 4-H alumni about 4-H record books and they will all remember working on their books. Record Books are important for youth to keep because it helps them track their goals and to see growth over years in the program. They are also very important for youth with market animal project because they are starting their very first small business. And any small business owner will tell you, it is important to keep track of details from when you do certain things to how much money you spent.
There are special forms for the California 4-H Record Book. A hard copy of those forms is located in the lobby of the 4-H office. If you are not in the Bishop area we can work out getting hard copies to you through your leader or by mail. We also have digital copies on our local website. http://ceinyo-mono.ucanr.edu/4-H_Program/RecordBookForms/ . They are in a fill-able Word document.
Who needs to fill out a Record Book? All 4-H members that are 9 and older are encouraged to complete a record book, however if you are planning on showing an animal at the Junior Livestock Show it is required to be able to show. Our Mini members, ages 5-8, are not required to fill out a record book form, but we do have a special primary member record book if you would like to start the habit. They are pretty fun to look back on.
When we get closer to the end of the 4-H year, I will start to hold Record Book Workshops. Depending on our ability to meet, they will either be in person or over zoom. Last year, I also created a series of video workshops for completing your record book and they are still available on YouTube. Our local YouTube channel is called: inyo mono 4-h. Your club leader, and project leaders are also great resources for help with your record books.