Llamas and alpacas make wonderful youth projects. They have a calm demeanor and are easily trained. They are easy to care for, and help to teach young people responsibility. Unlike many agricultural projects, the purchase of llama or alpaca grow with a child 10 years or more, as opposed to many livestock projects where new animals need to be acquired each year.

Camelid projects offer a variety of activities and competitions. Youth classes include showmanship, obstacle courses, costume classes, and much more. Outside the show ring llamas are used for packing, driving, therapy, and public relations. Llamas and alpacas can also be terrific breeding programs for young people drawn to agriculture, with competitions related to halter and fleece being open to young exhibitors as well.