This fall, the 5th graders had four weeks to explore the Wonder Studio. We showcased things made of duct tape, and I had pictures of different projects on the bulletin board for them to see and get inspired. However, what ended up inspiring them was some orange felt and black socks I had in the sewing space. October was mainly spent teaching a group of girls to sew.
Tag: Sewing with children
Sew Easy: A Heartfelt Journey
Many things that my mother loved, I love - teaching, making art, reading, eating cheese and crackers, putting on bright lipstick, and sewing. My mother was an amazing seamstress and dress designer well before she had kids and became a teacher. She would hold a piece of fabric in her hand, fold it, cut it without a pattern, and make something wonderful to wear. She had a gift, and it was magical.
Working in the Wonder Studio: Sewing up Some New Friends
The girls learn about sewing, making mistakes, and perseverance. I learn about how these students approach a task: how they plan, how they organize, and how they problem solve. I also learn how to help them when they are stuck and what motivates them. I have come to understand how important this half-hour is for them as students and for me as a teacher.
Sew Easy: Lessons in Perseverance
There are three rites of passage in the Wonder Studio: using the hot glue gun, working a hack saw, and learning to sew. The joyful expressions on students’ faces as they learn these skills are salve for my weary teacher’s soul.
Word Dancer: Literature, the Arts, & Education 