How to Start a Cloverbud Project

Fall is the perfect time to launch a Cloverbud project. With school routines settling in, the excitement of fall fairs, and the harvest season offering plenty of hands-on learning opportunities, there is no shortage of inspiration. Starting a Cloverbud project can also be a great way to welcome younger siblings of 4-H youth and strengthen your association’s programming.

This guide is designed to help 4-H volunteers take the first steps toward running a successful Cloverbud project this fall.

What is Cloverbuds?

Cloverbuds is the 4-H Ontario program created for youth aged 6-8. It’s a great way to introduce them to the 4-H experience and get them excited about continuing to take part in the future!

Cloverbuds have the opportunity to explore a variety of 4-H topics from livestock to field crops and art; however, this does not mean volunteers need to be diverse subject matter experts. You all get to learn together! Since youth can be in Cloverbuds for a maximum of 3 years, there is a rotating list of units that are covered in the program every year. In 2025, we are in Year 1 of the Cloverbud program, which covers the following units:

To see the units for all 3 years, read the Cloverbud Information Package

We encourage all associations to use the same cycle to ensure consistency and avoid repeating content for participants who join programs in different associations over their Cloverbud tenure.

Each 4-H association can run as many Cloverbud projects as they see fit, and operate with a flexible schedule as long as it meets the minimum requirements:

1. Each program must be run with a minimum of 2 screened and trained 4-H volunteers and a minimum of 6 Cloverbud participants.
2. Each program must include a minimum of 6 units (12 hours of instructional time) within the calendar year. There is no upper limit though on how many units can be run each year!

Youth can achieve up to 3 credits (1 for every year) in their Cloverbud tenure. To complete 1 credit, they must complete a minimum of 4 units in one year.

Follow These Steps:

Preparing a Cloverbud Project is a straightforward process, especially with the right tools and support. These are the steps you need to follow to make sure everything runs smoothly.

Step 1: Confirm that you are a volunteer in good standing

Make sure you’ve completed all required 4-H Ontario volunteer training. It’s the same process used for any other club or project. You’ll need to be in good standing to lead a Cloverbud Program.

Check your volunteer status by logging in to the LMS

If you’re not a volunteer, you can apply here: Become a Volunteer

Step 2: Find another volunteer to lead with you

In alignment with the 4-H Canada Youth Safety Policy, every 4-H project/meeting (including Cloverbud) must follow the Rule of Two, meaning a minimum of two (2) screened volunteers in good standing must be present at all times.

If you’re a new volunteer and feeling unsure about leading a program, consider reaching out to a more experienced volunteer in your association to work together as co-leaders.

Step 3: Plan the units and schedule

Use the Cloverbud Information Package, Reference Manuals, and FAQ below to choose your units and build a schedule that works for you and your group.

Cloverbud Information Package

Download the Year 1 Reference Manual

Download the Year 2 Reference Manual

Download the Year 3 Reference Manual

Step 4: Add your Cloverbud Program

Add your Cloverbud Program to the available 4-H projects library here: Add a Project

Note: The “Add a Project” page is password protected. Existing volunteers can find the password in the email titled “Your 4-H Volunteer Status.” New volunteers will receive the password once they’ve completed all steps to become a volunteer in good standing. If you cannot find this email, contact your Volunteer Support Staff.

Frequently Asked Questions

We have pulled together answers to some things you might be wondering as you prepare.

Do I have to do all 24 units that are designated for each year?

No. Volunteers must complete a minimum of 6 units within the calendar year but are not obligated to run any more units unless they wish to do so.

How often do I have to have a Cloverbud meeting?

Volunteers are encouraged to choose a structure that best suits their schedule and group needs, provided that a minimum of 6 units (equivalent to 12 hours of instructional time) are completed within the calendar year..

Can I use Cloverbud units from any of the 3 years?

No, units must be selected from the current program year. The Cloverbud Program is intentionally designed to provide three unique years of programming for youth beginning at age 6, ensuring that no unit is repeated.

These Cloverbuds are getting the buzz on bees! – Oxford 4-H Association

We’re Here to Help

If you have questions about the content in the Cloverbud project manual or would like more information about the program itself, please contact the Coordinator, Programming & Resources.

For questions about leading a Cloverbud Program or your role as a volunteer, reach out to your Volunteer Support Staff.

You can find contact information for all 4-H Ontario Staff at Our Team page.

To learn more about the Cloverbud Program, visit the Cloverbud Program page