## TEACHING YOUR LOVE OF CROCHETING TO KIDS 

Helping 4-H members learn a skill like crocheting can be a real challenge as well as a gratifying experience. You will find that some members will master the skill easily, while others will struggle. Children who are taught to crochet learn so much more than just “stitches.” They learn problem solving and math skills. Their reading, motor skills and eye-hand coordination are enhanced. It is an opportunity to develop decision making abilities and learn skills that can give pleasure throughout a lifetime. They find an outlet for their creativity which builds self-confidence and self-esteem. 

## TEN TIPS FROM THE PROS 

1. KEEP IT FUN! Your young students must enjoy what they are doing. Let them see that you are having fun. 

2. Have a model to display of a project so your students can see what they will be making. 

3. Select simple projects that will interest your young students. 

• Choose projects that can be completed quickly 

• Use brightly colored yarns 

• Have extra supplies on hand 

4. Keep the lessons short to accommodate the short attention span of children. 

5. Don’t expect perfection. They are trying. That is what is important. Praise them! Find something to compliment: 

• “I like that yarn color!” 

• “You have been a good listener today!” 

• “I like the way you are holding your crochet hook!” 

• REMEMBER KEEP IT FUN !!! 

6. Showing is better than telling. Demonstrate the skill that you want them to learn. 

7. Put something in their hands as soon as possible. Many teachers have found it easier to begin by giving students a hook with a few rows of crochet completed. Students learn the basics more easily and then go back and learn foundation chain, which can be tricky for beginners because of their tension. 

8. Children need a sense of accomplishment. Provide them with frequent progress reports. 

9. When a child is having difficulty with a skill, show an alternative, if possible. 

10. When teaching teenagers: 

• Do not “dumb down” your instructions, but recognize their interests are different. 

• Treat them as adults not like “large children.” 

• Choose projects that match their interests. 

• Consider current fashion trends. 

