Many of us were taught to knit or crochet by our relatives at a young age. Our needlework teacher could have been an aunt, grandma or mother. I'm sure you're glad you learned how to do it. But unless you knit for a living, you might not realize that learning the skill of knitting was more than just fun. Here are some reasons why every child should be taught to knit at a young age:
Knitting is a skill you learn without even realizing it.
Most skills that children acquire before school age are learned through play and copying. Knitting is of course no exception. When they look at a knitted garment, it seems like an impossible task to make something like that themselves. You probably wouldn't have a clue where to even start, would you? But as a child, it's just a fun game to have mom or grandma show them simple steps - for example, with arm or finger knitting. And when that knotted ball of wool turns into a recognizable shape, it's exciting rather than daunting. Small steps like these make learning new skills seem achievable. And of course, it's fun too!
Learning to fail
It happens all the time that things don't go as well as you thought the first time. Whether you lose a stitch, get tangled in the yarn, or everything around you seems to fall apart, it's a valuable life lesson to have someone there to say it's OK to stop, think, and start again. Likewise, having a cheerleader nearby who says never to give up helps you learn resilience, which can be very useful later on when life gets a little more difficult.
Sense of achievement
Of course, these small first steps into the world of knitting will eventually lead to success if you persevere. And when you finally finish something you never thought possible at the beginning, the feeling of achievement can last a lifetime.
A skill that can be passed on
It is almost a duty to pass on these skills and wisdom to your children or relatives. Of course, without pressure and taking into account their respective interests. But a little interest can be generated through your own enthusiasm. Be the fire of enthusiasm and inspiration. Because passing on knowledge and caring is very enriching for both sides.
