How to Introduce Your Kids to Woodworking [5 Easy Steps]

Sponsored Guest Post by Shawn Richard

June 30, 2022

There are few things that bring us as much joy and excitement as creating something with our bare hands. 

Woodworking is an extremely rewarding arts & crafts hobby that many people enjoy. This joy can also be shared with our family members, and especially our children. 

If kids grow up alongside woodworking, then chances are it will help them develop their own creativity! Are you interested in teaching your kids some woodworking? Here are five steps to introducing woodworking to your kids.

Start by Planning Ahead

The best first step to starting anything is by planning ahead of time, and this article for five steps to introducing woodworking to your kids encourages you to do the same. Woodworking is a complex process, so you need to sit down and talk to your children first.

You should first see if they have any interest in this art, as you shouldn’t force a hobby on them just because you enjoy it. If they do, then you have to teach them about the tools and materials. From uses for epoxy resin and wood to how to operate the tools correctly, you should leave nothing out in this study session.

Afterward, set a time and prepare the workshop. Try to make it as user-friendly and organized as possible. This will set a good impression and intrigue them as well. 

You should reorganize your tools and supplies ahead of time and come up with a strategy as although it’s good to maintain freedom when deciding what to craft, even the slightest mishaps can dishearten them. Lastly, be sure to help them and praise them as it will keep them motivated.

Start Slow and Steady

It is only natural for kids to be excited and give form to their creative imagination. This might tempt you to rush things and try to teach them everything quickly. However, remember that they are only kids, and in this guide, we recommend taking things slowly and at a steady pace.

Assuming that you are here after the first step, you have taught them how to use the tools and organize the workshop. Now to talk about pacing. If the kids try out difficult projects at first, they are bound to fail, and this can dishearten them. You should give them simple ideas and teach them how to use the tools and equipment perfectly throughout the process.

Furthermore, all humans strive for improvement, so it’s good for them to have a goal. Show them what the finished project will look like. A picture will do just fine. This will motivate them to work and learn until they have reached this goal.

Wood Is the Heart of Woodworking

One of the most crucial steps to introducing woodworking to your kids is to teach them about the key material that they will be working with: wood. As the name suggests, the craft focuses on creating things with wood, for which you need sufficient knowledge of the different types of wood and their uses.

Not learning about wood is a mistake every woodworker makes at first, but it is one you want to try to avoid when passing on the skill to our kids. You should also teach your kids about the different trees that produce the wood they will be working with.

Although there is a large variety in the types of wood, it is still crucial that you start them off with the right kind. Softwood may be the best kind to start off with. Redwood, fir or cedar, and white pine are some popular softwoods you should consider in the beginning.

Using Tools and Staying Safe

Since you are trying to teach children, the thought of using toy tools may cross your mind. However, you should refrain from doing so as real tools require more concentration and responsibility, both of which are of the utmost traits a woodworker should develop.

You should teach them with real tools that are in peak condition. Start with simple tools such as a hammer, nails, paint brushes, sandpaper, and a saw. When using a saw, make sure that it is a pull kind rather than a push kind as they are much safer and easier to use.

Furthermore, one of the most important steps to introducing woodworking to your kids is to teach them how to stay safe. Kids can be careless which is why educating them about safety measures is of the utmost importance. You should also remember to make use of clamps and vises so that the wood stays in place and your kids can learn without being injured due to accidents.

Involve Yourself in The Right Moments

The last part of these guided steps to introducing woodworking to your kids is that you should know when to intervene and when to refrain. Children can make mistakes, but intervention may not be the best idea as they can learn from these mistakes as well.

Additionally, it is important for them to explore their own creativity, so don’t pressure them to pursue a specific project. Kids are easily bored and are always looking for new things to try.

Don’t be discouraged; motivate your kids to learn at their own pace. Furthermore, make sure that breaks are taken and time limits are set so that they don’t get frustrated.

In Conclusion

All in all, woodworking is not a common thing for a kid to try, so don’t be surprised if they don’t show any interest, at least at first. You should let them see you at work so that they can see the beauty of woodworking for themselves. This will also make them strive to be as good as you someday!

Woodworking is not just any hobby and making your kids try it may be difficult, but if done correctly, you will be giving them the opportunity to grow not just as crafters, but as people as well! 

We hope that this article has shown you the beginning steps to introducing woodworking to your kids, and we wish you good luck.

FAQs

Can Woodworking Serve as a Cure for Boredom in Kids?

Yes. If your child shows interest in woodworking, then it is sure to keep them indulged in an activity that tests their capabilities.

What are some Beginner Friendly Projects?

Wooden utensils, picture frames, plant boxes, and bowls are all beginner projects that are worth trying out.

Is Wooden Furniture a Good Idea for Beginners?

If accustomed to the simple tools, then yes, a beginner can try to work on crafting furniture.

By Shawn Richard 2 Comments

  Posted in: Guest Tags: learning, Sponsored, woodworking