1. Module #6: Types of Parents “I’m a 4-H Parent…Now What?” Indiana 4-H Parent Resource Series for Extension Educators, Volunteers, and Parents Compiled by Steve McKinley, Extension Specialist, Leadership & Volunteerism “Your pleasant presence matters quite a lot." 1

2. Objective: Describe four general types of parents. Questions to answer: What are four general types of parents? How can we help all types of parents participate in the 4-H program? 2

3. Types of Parents  Parents can be classified into four general types: Balanced Overindulgent Overstrict Unconcerned 3

4. Balanced Parents…  Share planning, decision making and home project work with their children.  Encourage 4-H to become part of the family.  Teach their children the self-discipline necessary to do 4-H projects. 4

5. Balanced Parents…  Use a kind but firm hand.  Need less guidance than some of the other types, but want to be constantly informed of any new developments, projects or activities that are available.  Are more concerned with the educational value of 4-H than with the specific award the member’s project receives. 5

6. Overindulgent Parents…  Protect and pamper their children.  Have boys and girls who join 4-H only because their parents think it will be good for them.  Frequently do much of the project work and record keeping for their 4-H members. 6

7. Overindulgent Parents…  Find it easier to do the work than to guide and teach their children the self-discipline necessary to complete the work.  Have children who may lack initiative.  Hinder the development of their child’s imagination and creativity. 7

8. Overstrict Parents…  Are the fault-finders who give very little constructive criticism and no praise.  Frequently force adult standards on their youngsters, making it impossible for the 4-H member to succeed.  Have children who may be insecure, frustrated or rebellious and may not complete the project for fear of it not being “good enough.” 8

9. Unconcerned Parents…  Give their children no encouragement.  Have children who tend not to join clubs at all, or if they do, they become only “members.”  Have members who, if they start a project, seldom finish it because of the lack of guidance or enthusiasm at home. 9

10. Unconcerned Parents…  Should be contacted frequently and kept informed of their child’s progress.  Need to be encouraged to find some areas in which they can develop an interest in the child’s work. 10

11. Challenge to Parents:  Why did you want your child to join 4-H? If it is to win, you will be disappointed. If it is so your child can learn and become involved in a worthwhile activity, you will be satisfied.  Recognition comes with doing the best your child can do.  Be a supportive parent and help your child and 4-H volunteer to “Make the Best Better!”  Remember…the development of your child is more important than your ego! 11

12. Challenge to Volunteers and Extension Staff:  Each type of parent is different and each will require various ways to be involved positively.  Consider each child and each parent in the light of individual differences as you set up the 4-H Program and ask for parental involvement. 12