Penn State Extension invites youth in Pennsylvania to participate in a free, virtual equine activity. The activity is part of Pennsylvania 4-H’s summer free trial period, during which youth throughout the state can experience a sampling of 4-H projects through a series of online activities designed to be fun and interactive.

An equine nutrition session for children ages 5 to 7 - known as Cloverbuds in 4-H - will take place from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. July 26. An event for participants ages 8 to 18 will focus on equine identification and is scheduled for 1 to 2 p.m. on July 26.

During the Cloverbud program, attendees will discover the dietary requirements of horses and participate in an activity drawing parallels between human and equine nutrition. Organizers suggest that participants peak into their home’s pantry to find items in their own diets.

In the general session, participants will learn about horse measurements and markings and how these traits contribute to horse identification. Each horse possesses unique physical characteristics that help distinguish them. These horse markings serve as a practical means to differentiate and identify horses. Horse markings play a significant role in horse registration papers, equine registries and breed organizations.

In addition, a horse’s height is measured using hands, while miniature horses are measured in inches. Participants should bring a tape measure and crew sock to the session.

Participants must register by July 25. More information about the Cloverbuds session is available on the Penn State Extension website at https://extension.psu.edu/4-h/cloverbud-equine.

Information about the general session can be found at https://extension.psu.edu/4-h/equine.

Organizers noted that this opportunity allows youth and their families to try the 4-H program for free and determine if joining is the right decision for them. Participation in the trial does not automatically enroll youth in 4-H.