Children using real tools
Children
using real tools can be daunting for educators, parents and children. But there are some real benefits for children in using these seemingly
hazardous items, in terms of self-esteem, confidence and other
characteristics, such as perseverance. As adults, we expect the worst –
give a child a knife, and they are bound to cut themselves; give them a hammer, and
they will swing it at another child. And we protect them from what
we anticipate they may do, instead of giving them a chance to show us
– and themselves – what they can do.
By
trusting children with tools, we are boosting their self-confidence,
developing their motor skills, concentration and understanding of the material
world. You do not truly understand why a hammer must be
heavy until you have swung its weight onto a nail. Children will
always learn better when they experience firsthand.
So how
do we protect our children from harm but still give them the freedom to grow
and learn?
- Take it slow. Introduce tools one at a time, letting them examine and get to know
the tool before we start work.
- Talk
about what the tool is for, and which parts are therefore sharp or
pointed or heavy.
- Practice
holding it safely, and talk about where we use it and how to carry
it.
- Establish
the rules and make sure they know and understand them.
- Of
course, these are experiences to be had under supervision, and at a suitable time.
- Know
your children. Make sure they are not tired, hungry or overexcited.
With very young children, short sessions work best – concentrating
for long periods of time is tiring for anyone, and a skill that
children need to develop.
- Choose
tools that are sized appropriately so that children are not struggling
with something too big, heavy or unwieldy for them to
manage.
When
using the tools, we do so seriously. If they are getting to know a
tool, the tasks will be simple. Instead of a product, the purpose will be
to explore what the tool can do. If it is a hammer, try a block of
wood and a pile of nails. If it is a saw, you can start by sawing
sticks or blocks of various sizes, plus clamps to hold them in
place.
