As a follow-up to a recommendation for lowering the age for membership in 4-H to six years, a study of the characteristics of the six- to eight-year old age group was undertaken. The nine developmental tasks identified by Havighurst as being the main tasks facing this group were used as an outline for a discussion of tasks and characteristics leading to better understanding of children in this age group. The child was also studied in terms of year by year developmental characteristics. Some States have already initiated programs for the six- to eight-year old group, and there is support for such programs at the national 4-H level. The study identified 10 characteristics of the children which must be considered in program planning. They pertain to learning processes, peer relationships, and needs. Eleven subject and activity areas of interest were identified, and topical interests tend to suggest that a creative educational program could be developed for the particular age group. Further study is recommended. (AG)