The Middle School Years

Last night I attended the PCM Middle School musical, Princess Whatsername. The kids did a wonderful job portraying the fairy tale characters, acting out the scenes, and singing in front of a packed auditorium. Middle School is the first time you start to participate in activities “competitively”. You try different sports, music contests, student organizations, etc. It’s a good environment to find your niche before high school.

Although I didn’t personally know any of the 6^th, 7^th, or 8^th graders involved with the musical last night, I was proud of them for stepping out of their individual comfort zones and trying something new.  (I was also proud of my sister for directing the show and not going crazy with 68 middle school students.)   

Watching the show got me thinking about all of the youth activities that take place during the Iowa State Fair. The Foundation has helped renovate several buildings across the Fairgrounds that involve young Fairgoers every year. For example, the Anne & Bill Riley Stage showcases the amazing talent of youth from across the state. The livestock barns are filled with 4-H and FFA students preparing their animals.

The Animal Learning Center is an entire building designed to educate youth on the importance of agriculture, raising animals, and farming in general. The Fun Forest park and play equipment are used year round by visitors on the Fairgrounds. The Youth Inn is the home to hundreds of young exhibitors and is in the process of being updated.

Don’t forget about Little Hands on the Farm, Kids’ Zone, Team ISF and the Blue Ribbon Kids Club. There are also plenty of competitions for kids to participate in during the Fair – Mutton Bustin’, tractor pull, joke telling, mom calling, etc.

The Foundation offers opportunities for youth to be involved with our work. During the summer, youth can volunteer at merchandise or water booths. Volunteers must be at least 16 years old or accompanied by a parent or guardian. All volunteers must be at least 12 years old.

If your child loves the Fair, check out the State Fair Store’s youth t-shirts. The Foundation also sells the children’s Pippy the Pig book series. In Pippy the Pig – Iowa State Fair you can read along as Pippy highlights the Fair for our youngest Fairgoers and helps devoted Fair lovers recall fond memories. What future Fair-goer wouldn’t love to play a Fair Game or fly a butter cow kite?

There is truly something for everyone at the Iowa State Fair. We appreciate your continued support of helping preserve the Fairgrounds for future generations of youth.