Needle felting with Kids

[josiebrat]

I have done a little needle felting lately with one of 2 kids, and find they love it but concerns about teaching an entire class of 2nd/3rd graders who range in age from 7-9/10 years.

What has been your experience in working with kids? any tips or advise would be greatly appreciated.

I worked with a 9 year old to create this bunny using a combination of wet and needle felting. We still have to finish the nose, and add some small feet.

[lyn]

Maybe I'm being over-cautious, but I think with children of 7-9 years (who have not needle felted before) one-to-one tuition would be safest.

Very cute bunny!

[Teri Berry]

I agree with Lyn, the health and safety brigade will have a field day when they find out you gave 20, 8 yr olds very long and sharp barbed needles. Wet felting would be much safer, you could still make bunnies and either an adult could needle felt th pieces together or the could be sewn on.

[MTRuth]

I did a little needle felting with my husband's grandkids when they were small. They had a hard time at that age. I agree that wet felting is definitely safer for that age range.

[Pandagirl]

Ditto Lyn and Teri! One on one would be best for needles.

[Shepherdess]

very definitely I would go with wet felting. All you need is one stabbing another. The problem with a class is there will be some that will not be interested so will not pay attention and start doing something they shouldn't.

[josiebrat]

All valid points and appreciate the feedback. I have decided not to offer the needle felting and stick to wet felting flowers, landscape and smaller projects. I am still working with the girl in the class now and she's working alongside an adult or me at all times so we're keeping an eye on her.

[Wolfrott]

Too dangerous, yeah. One on one, and wet felting gets my vote too. The sharp needles are way too easy fo hurt yourself (try skewering) or break for us adults!