Saturday, December 17, 2011

Wood Working


The Wood Table is a huge hit in our Project room, because it gives the children the opportunity to use real tools. Because safety is a concern I make sure the rules are clear before the children begin working away. I also limit the wood working table to two friends at a time, and only one friend can use a hammer at any given time. All was understood and thankfully there haven't been any accidents . But most importantly I am there to watch, guide and scaffold this wonderful activity. Next we will bring out the saw's!
Things I included at the wood working table were; hammer, nails, screws, screw drivers, real wood, branches, sand paper, and a chisel.
It is important to allow children opportunities to use real items as opposed to always using plastic imitative items. Although those items serve a great purpose in certain environments, using real "adult" items such as tools or even dishes, pots & pans, and silverware it really teaches children that number one we trust them, and number two it enhances their creativity.

Benefits to Woodworking  

  • Dexterity/fine motor
  • Problem-solving
  • Role-playing
  • Creative thinking
  • Independence/self esteem
  • Comparing/measuring
  • Textures and properties
  • Conceptualization
  • Cooperation
  • Respect for tools and materials
  • Language development
  • Eye hand coordination