Age Guidelines

1. Age Requirements
The WSU Extension 4-H Youth Development Program abides by the nondiscrimination policies of WSU and the USDA. 4-H is open to all youth between the ages five (5) and nineteen (19) (4-H Age), regardless of race; sex/gender; sexual orientation; gender identity/expression; religion; age; color; creed; national or ethnic origin; physical, mental, or sensory disability, including disability requiring the use of a trained service animal; genetic information; and/or status as an honorably discharged veteran or member of the military as determined by the following age criteria:

• 4-H Age is determined by October 1st of the current 4-H year.
• Youth who have reached their 5th birthday (before October 1st of the current 4-H year), through those who have not reached their 19th birthday (before October 1st of the current 4-H year).

The following groups are identified for special programs and activity participation, including all competitive events/activities, within the WSU Extension 4-H Youth Development Program:

• Cloverbuds: 5 to 7 years of age 
• Junior: 8 to 10 years of age
• Intermediate: 11 to 13 years of age
• Senior: 14 to less than 19 years of age