Cooperative Extension Program 4-H John Ferguson and Program Specialist Joice A. Jeffries engaged educators at the 99th State Conference of the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (AAFCS) in Plano, Texas. The trio presented a workshop entitled “SEW ON! Fostering Meaningful Connections through 4-H Sewing Projects” to engage volunteers in leading 4-H clothing and textiles projects.
Workshop participants had hands-on application to sew a camp/toiletry caddy. Many said they intended to share the
lesson with their 4-H and Family and Consumer Sciences clubs, in classrooms, and even requested that the trio come and present this workshop in their
classrooms and clubs. The portable camp toiletry bag can be used to store toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, comb, brush, and other items.
The sixteen workshop participants included fellow extension professionals, administrators, university professors, and classroom teachers. They learned about the Do, Reflect, Apply educational model and left with their own multipurpose caddy.
Sewing skills teach one about sustainability, entrepreneurship, career awareness, and green jobs. Evidence suggests that it also improves math skills and enhances life and fine motor skills. Neuroscientists’ research indicates that sewing has a positive impact on the mind’s health and well-being.
Joice Jeffries, Ph.D.
Program Specialist, 4-H and Youth Development
jojeffries@pvamu.edu
(936) 261-5012