When Kids use their hands to make things, what happens?
I look across the meadow and see four groups of school kids. Each engaged in practicing a challenging old skill: Bead-making with pine nuts, reverse-wrapped cordage, bowdrill fire by friction, and a sensory awareness game which requires silent walking in slow motion to win. They are engaged, curious, focused. When the time limit is called, their reluctance to move on to the next station is clear. What happens when kids use their hands to make things?
In my work with youth I have observed qualities which seem to go hand in hand with practicing old skills:
Emotions like satisfaction, curiosity, motivation, inspiration, and gratitude emerge naturally after frustration, confusion and hesitation. A feeling of trust in oneself and one's abilities. Confidence. Resilience. Love of learning.
What if choosing to light your campfire with a bowdrill or handrill instead of a lighter or matches has side effects that we as modern humans need?
Can we dramatically help youth develop positive attributes by simply helping them use their hands to practice old skills?
In my work with youth I have observed qualities which seem to go hand in hand with practicing old skills:
Emotions like satisfaction, curiosity, motivation, inspiration, and gratitude emerge naturally after frustration, confusion and hesitation. A feeling of trust in oneself and one's abilities. Confidence. Resilience. Love of learning.
What if choosing to light your campfire with a bowdrill or handrill instead of a lighter or matches has side effects that we as modern humans need?
Can we dramatically help youth develop positive attributes by simply helping them use their hands to practice old skills?