Why Handicrafts?

Every year I get out the "school stuff" and start planning the new year. One subject that I always spend a lot of time planning is handicrafts. Why handicrafts? Shouldn't I spend more time on planning mathematics and grammar than all that time spent on handicrafts? My children have spent hours knitting, weaving, embroidering, and making everything from clothing to puppets to house wares and toys. Why all of this crafting?

"Handicrafts, such as knitting and crocheting, are exceptional activities for integrating thoughts, feelings, and actions. They can be tremendously harmonizing and healing if we do them consciously and consistently." (Home Teacher's Process Manual - Oak Meadow)

Making time for crafting with children is a vital part of the learning process in our home. So many skills can be learned easily through the process of handicrafts. Knitting, for example, is an excellent math activity. Many times I have had my daughter knit before a math lesson. It is amazing how it centers the child, gives them focus and attention, and prepares the mind for formal lessons. Handicrafts are a very academic pursuit. Learning about the process of gathering wool, washing it, combing it, spinning it, and weaving it is easily a lesson in Social Studies, History, and Science, as well as handicrafts. Children who see how things are made, where they come from, and how they become what they are, have a much better concept of life. Clothing doesn't come from a store, it is grown, sewn, etc. The academic benefits are only a very small part of the importance of handicrafts. I believe the best part about it is the therapeutic value. We so easily forget that children can get stressed, busy, and over stimulated. Handicrafts offer a way of calming the mind and heart. The repetitive motions, the joy of watching yourself create something new, it is all balm to the soul. If you have never tried handicrafts with your children, give it a chance. One of the easiest ways to start is to purchase the Klutz Kits for children in knitting, pot holder making, or whatever else takes your fancy. The directions are easy even if you are a beginner.
Happy Crafting!