I've taught a few classes, in a few different situations, and today want to give you some tips for teaching crochet, and other yarn crafts to kids.
These are going to depend on the age of the children, class size and how long you have - whether or not it's a one time class or on going. Each of these should be considered to plan a great lesson.
Tip #1
Stick to chains.
This is a crochet specific tip. If you have a limited time, I'd recommend just learning chains as an introduction to crochet, especially if it's a one off class. It teaches kids to hold to hook and yarn, how to get them to flow together and even a lesson in tension. The finished chain could be made into a bracelet or necklace!
If you have the time to go one step further and introduce a slip stitch or single crochet - crochet mesh is also a great first project- it grows fast and still uses mostly chains.
These Chain Loop Pom Poms are a great pattern to work with chains
This Loopy Worsted Necklace is a little more advanced, but can be something that is worked up to
Tip #2
Forget the chains.
OK, yes this is completely contradictory advice, but my next tip is to start off the work. Work a few rows and have them build up from it, either from a granny square or simple rows back and forth. This also works for knitting. I've found the hardest concept in teaching crochet is the foundation row, and how and why we skip chains, and same for knitting and casting on. The actual stitches can be fun to learn, but if you are too bogged down in all the things you need to know to start it can be difficult. I find half double crochets a good first stitch to learn. They have one less action than a double, but still incorporate the yarn over. from there you add or subtract an action to make different stitches. It seems a bit obvious to say, but for knitting - stick to basic knit/garter stitch.
Tip #3
Be patient.
This goes for kids and adult alike - crochet and knit are supposed to be very relaxing, but for a beginner it can be the exact opposite. Take it slow, think of several ways to explain a concept and one might stick. Some people need to know why they are doing something, and others will just need to know how.
Tip #4
Complete an item.
I've found most students like to work to an end goal. A scarf for a toy or a washcloth are good uses for little swatches, or even add them as an embellishment to something bigger makes the end goal more impressive.
Thanks for reading,
Happy Crocheting (and knitting!)
Emma
