Murray County 4-H Youth Development Educators, Kim Hause and Kerstin Thoms stayed busy in February, not only teaching STEM activities but also shaping lives for generations to come during our After School Adventures and Home School programming.
During the month of February, the theme of the month was “The Biggest Heart.” Youth members of the homeschool group recently brought science to life through an interactive lesson on the human body. Thoms introduced that using simple materials — cups to represent the heart, balloons for the diaphragm, and straws as arteries — the youth built working models to demonstrate how these vital parts function together.
The hands-on activity helped youth better understand how the heart pumps blood and how the diaphragm supports breathing, showing how the circulatory and respiratory systems work in harmony.
Laughter, curiosity, and teamwork filled the room as students tested their models and learned through doing.
This creative lesson was a wonderful example of our program’s and local communities’ commitment to making education engaging, meaningful, and accessible for every child.
We hosted two After School Adventure programs, one in Slayton on February 10 and one in Fulda on February 12. Kim and Kerstin taught youth how to begin developing habits that support lifelong heart health.
Throughout the program, youth participated in interactive activities designed to help them better understand how the heart functions and how daily choices impact overall wellness. Youth had the opportunity to listen to their own heartbeats using a stethoscope, measure their heart rates, and observe how physical activity affects the speed at which the heart works.
In one engaging challenge, students used measuring cups to see if they could “pump” water as quickly as the heart pumps blood— providing a powerful visual of how hard this vital organ works every day. Participants also discussed how exercise, nutrition, and healthy routines contribute to maintaining a strong heart.
By combining education with hands-on experiences, After School Adventures continues to empower youth with practical knowledge and skills that encourage healthy living now and in the future.
For more information about Murray County 4-H After School Adventures and upcoming programs, contact the Murray County Extension Office at (507)-836-6927.
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