This is a post in a series of 31 Days of Wood Finishing. See the intro post with all the topics here.
In the previous post I discussed how to encourage children to get into woodworking, safety, and age appropriate tools.
Get Involved
The best way to train your little woodworker is to get in there with them and show them how. Watching you woodworking will inspire your children and give them companionship – something which always makes any job more enjoyable for them. If you don’t know much about woodworking, ask a friend to help out, and stick around and remain available to do any necessary errands for the pair.
Invite Friends
Let your child bring along some friends for a day of woodworking fun. With a group of friends, your child could make plans to build some amazing creations. Each one may want to choose their own project, or perhaps they will get together as a team and make something a little more complex. Either way, they are sure to be left with some great memories.
Woodworking Class
Maybe your best efforts have failed, or you have taken your child as far as you can in woodworking. Look for a local, age-appropriate class that your child can join. A teacher who does this for a living is sure to have many ideas that will stimulate a love of learning for this area in your child. With the creativity, skill, and experience of a professional, your child’s love and interest for their hobby could grow into much more.
Woodworking is a great hobby and can be a lot of fun for a child with an interest in it. If your child has expressed that interest, follow their lead and teach them everything you know. In no time, your budding woodworker will be enjoying much quality time participating in their new skill.
Zeke Willard