How to Teach Kids to Crochet

Yarn crafts have grown in popularity in the last decade for good reason. They're relaxing, creative, fun and give you something tangible when you're done. They can also teach kids patience, creativity and concentration. Crochet is a good choice for kids because a single needle may be easier for them to handle in the beginning. Here's how to teach your child to crochet.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Size-J hook
• Worsted-weight yarn

1. Choose your tools carefully. The crochet hook, size J, should be easy to handle. Bamboo is a better choice for kids than aluminum or plastic. Teach with light pastel, bright or multicolored worsted-weight yarn.

2. Pick a quiet environment. You should teach crochet in daylight near a large window. Make sure there's a couch big enough for you and your child to sit comfortably side by side.

3. Teach your child single crochet first. This means you'll have to create a swatch so stitches are comfortable for a beginner to work with. Crochet a 2-inch fabric with 23 stitches across.

4. Move right along to double crochet once your pupil has mastered single crochet. Make sure she brings the yarn from back to front over the hook as this seems to be a particular problem with kids.

5. Show him how to make a slip knot. Be patient because this can look tricky to a child. Then go slowly through the motions of making a chain, emphasizing that it's actually the easiest part of crochet, once you get the hang of it.

6. Find a suitable pattern for your beginning crocheter (see Resources for a link). A scarf is the classic starter pattern, but consider a dishcloth or doll blanket if your child doesn't have much patience. Seeing a finished piece is a great motivator.

7. Get into advanced crochet techniques once your kids have mastered the basics. Teach them about gauge, yarn weights and crochet hook sizes so they can make clothes that will fit.

Tips & Warnings

• Schedule weekly, hour-long lessons so your kids maintain their crochet skills.
• The Craft Yarn Council of America has a certificate you can present to your kids once they've learned to chain, single and double crochet (see link in Resources).
• Never teach crochet while watching TV.
• Don't nag about form. Let them hold the needles the way they want as long as it works for them.

Resources

• Here are some crochet patterns for kids.
• Print out a certificate from the Craft Yarn Council.