Using simple woodworking plans for kids is a great way to show them all the things they can do with their hands. Now you may be wondering how old they should be to do a woodworking project? As long as they can hold a piece of wood and a hammer, means they are old enough to do a simple project with you. But to really have their interest long enough on the project, the age of 5 years old and up is suitable.
Begin With a Small, Easy Project
Of course children cannot always grasp all the steps that need to be taken for a big project such as a picnic table or a porch swing. They will probably loose interest in the making if the whole thing takes too long. So for the first one, it is best to do a small projects that can be done fast. Don't have any idea what to make with your kids? Ask them! You will be surprised of what they will come up with!
Prepare the Material for the Project
This is good if you are working with younger children. Because it may be difficult to hold their interest for long periods of time, try to prepare to "woodwork shop" before they get in. Cut the wood boards to make the bird house, for example, and drill small holes where the nails are going to be to make it easier for them if they are going to do this part. They will enjoy painting the finished product, so have some latex paint and some brushes handy.
A Very Simple Project Your Kids Will Love
It is not always necessary to use simple woodworking plans for kids. The goal is to get them interested in woodworking, not to overwhelm them with it.
All children loves shapes. A great project is to get a piece of plywood of about 24 inches square and to cut in small, different shapes, either square or triangles and make them fit together like a puzzle. Then make a tray with a small wooden border around it and put all the pieces flat in the tray to hold a puzzle.
Then have the kids paint something on the pieces, such as a house or an animal. You can also have them paint the back of the pieces all the same color and the bottom of the tray. Once the paint is dry, they can mix the pieces and try to redo the puzzle on the tray. Kids will enjoy this kind of project where they can say that they did it all by themselves.
