Share Your Knowledge at District Activity Day!
Presentations are an important part of North Carolina 4-H and one of the best ways youth build confidence, communication, and leadership skills. Through presentations, youth research a topic connected to their projects or interests and teach others what they have learned.
Rather than simply giving a speech, 4-H members practice organizing ideas, explaining concepts clearly, and answering questions from an audience. These experiences help youth grow as public speakers while also strengthening problem-solving, preparation, and self-confidence, skills that benefit them in school, future careers, and leadership roles.
One of the best parts of a 4-H presentation is that the topic is up to you! Youth can present on almost anything from animals and agriculture to cooking, science, crafts, technology, outdoor skills, and more. If you have a hobby or something you’re passionate about, chances are it could make a great presentation topic.
At District Activity Day, each county may enter two presentations per age category (8–10, 11–13, and 14–18). 4-H members may compete in one presentation program per year, and team presentations may include up to two youth. Participants receive a County Winner ribbon, and district winners receive gold, silver, or bronze medallions. District gold winners and silver winners in each age group advance to compete at the state level during 4-H Congress.
Youth can also participate in 4-H Entertains, the district talent showcase. Each county may enter up to two acts with a total performance time of ten minutes. Participants receive a ribbon, and select performances may be invited to perform at the state-level 4-H Entertains program.
District Activity Day is a fun and supportive event where 4-H members share their knowledge, celebrate their hard work, and develop valuable life skills. If you’ve never given a presentation before, this is a great opportunity to try something new and build confidence in a welcoming environment.
6 Steps to Get Started with Your 4-H Presentation
1. Choose a Topic
Pick something you enjoy or know a lot about. Your presentation can be about a 4-H project, hobby, skill, or something you want to learn more about.
2. Do a Little Research
Learn more about your topic by reading, watching videos, or talking with someone who has experience. Think about what you want your audience to learn.
3. Organize Your Ideas
Plan your presentation with a clear structure:
Introduction: Tell the audience what your topic is and why it’s interesting.
Main Points: Share 2–3 key things you want people to learn.
Conclusion: Review what you taught and why it matters.
4. Create Visuals or Demonstrations
Posters, props, slides, or demonstrations can help make your presentation more engaging and easier for the audience to understand.
5. Practice
Practice your presentation at home, with family, or at a club meeting. The more you practice, the more confident you will feel.
6. Ask for Help
Your 4-H agent, club leaders, and family members are happy to help you brainstorm ideas, organize your presentation, and practice before District Activity Day.
Ready to share what you know? Start planning your presentation today and join us at District Activity Day!
For help or more information about 4-H Presentations, reach out to Allison Walker Allen at allison_walker@ncsu.edu or call/text (336) 467-2927.
