All little boys can’t wait to get their first pocket knife, at least that has been the case with my boys. Then again, my daughter loved having her own knife. It is always the perfect time to start exploring whittling and carving.
Explore Whittling & Carving
Knives scared me. I'm going to admit it.
It took me a while to be willing for my children to have them, but now, all I require is obedience and responsibility to be a character of a child before they get their first pocket knife. We make sure they obey, for the safety rules that come with owning their own knife. Of course, the responsibility can go along with it, because this demonstrates that they are capable of putting their knives in the right place, and away from younger children who haven't been given these privileges, yet.
Our children just started whittling branches for their first projects during their free afternoon time. My oldest son did cut his finger really badly while whittling, but it was because he looked away and continued to whittle. The scar reminds him of the importance of paying attention when using a knife.
All that is needed to start whittling is a small branch, a knife and the knowledge that you push the knife away from your body, while watching every stroke carefully.
If you have a child that loves to whittle and you desire to encourage a project, like a walking stick, you can invest in a whittling knife and sheave.
Once a child gets comfortable with whittling, they may want to broaden their skills with learning to carve. We purchased a carving set for our son's birthday and included a mesh glove for cutting protection.
With these tools and extra time in the afternoon, you will see your children creating and learning skills they will use for a lifetime.
Don't forget to enjoy the other free afternoon activities ideas in this 31 day series…
We like to start them off with whittling on soap first until they get comfortable with the knife. My girl enjoys whittling as well.
Yes, we have done the same thing for our 3rd child to learn, and my older son taught him.
What ages were they when they got their knives?
We did knives at 10, but only if they showed obedience to the safety rules, and followed instructions. We expect responsibility before something of this nature is given to our children.
What ages were your children when they first started? I realise it may vary for each child it wondered roughly when they may be ready. Thank.
My oldest children were 12 & 10 when they first started. I would say that as long as your children are obedient and follow instructions, they would be capable of doing this well. My third child was 10 as well, but my youngest has yet to start.
My wife had a hard time with it but I gave my oldest son his first pocket knife at age 7. He is now 10 and has proven responsibility for it. Was 7 early? Sure, but I think it depends on whether you have faith in his responsibility and your ability to help teach him about knife handling and basic rules.
I agree, Jason!