Charlotte Mason includes Handiworks in her curriculum.  It is such an old-fashioned word, and in some ways, an old-fashioned practice.  To work with one's hands to make something practical.  Especially in our culture of Made in China, Bought at Walmart, bargain-shopping, disposable diapers, disposable dishes, and disposable clorox wipes.

Our Charlotte Mason group had a get-together last week-- it felt like lots of people! 

I taught the children (and some moms, too) how to finger-knit.  It was a hit, and we moms were surrounded by all these quiet, knitting kids. 

They knit snakes and garlands for the Christmas tree, and leashes for stuffed animals.

As they were ready, some added a crocket hook into the process. 

We had a great time, and apparently everyone has been knitting at home. 

 Happy knitters are quiet listeners to books.  Perfect for snowy days.

Handiworks.  Thanks, Miss Mason.

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Posted by Christinethecurious

Wow, it's hard to pull off needle work with more students than one on one, I loved the shoe shot, that really sets the scene!

Did you know that in Germany, knitting is considered a help to developing good handwriting?

-Chris

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Posted by Anonymous

I'm trying to remember if I know how to do that. I know I knew how to once. I'm going to have to pull out some yarn and give it a go. Or Google it. Or wait for your tutorial.

I love it that you taught all those kids how! It looks (and sounds) like everyone loved it!

~Stacy

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Posted by momco3

Stacy, there's a nice little tutorial in Amanda Blake Soule's book, The Creative Family. Happy knitting!
Annie

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Posted by Jessica Snell

Anne, that's great. How old do you find kids have to be to learn how to crochet? I'd love to do this with my kids and their friends when they're old enough.

(btw, LOVE Sweet P as Einstein!)

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Posted by momco3

You and your pi scarf-- I should have have you in as a guest lecturer!
We had kids as young as 4 trying it out, though I think it was the 6 year olds (and older) who really took off.

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