At what age can children learn to crochet?

The benefits of crafting on mental health and motor skills are well documented. Crafting can reduce loneliness and isolation, increase dexterity, and ease anxiety and depression.

The effectiveness of textile crafts such as crochet in increasing well being means that craft groups are being ‘prescribed’ to patients as part of the NHS’s move towards so-called ‘social prescribing’. While the benefits of crafting are mainly promoted to older people, it is great for young people too.

When can children learn to crochet?

Starting to learn a new skill such as crochet can be daunting for anyone, never mind small children who may lack the patience and motor skills to commit to a new hobby; however, if introduced in an age-appropriate way, children can begin picking up key crochet skills and enjoying a fun new pastime.

The earliest it is advisable to start teaching children crochet skills is around six years old. Some children have the motor skills to carry out or learn basic crochet movements at this age; however, it may be advisable to start children a little later at around nine to ten years old. Motor function should not be an issue at this stage, and children may have a little more patience and concentration.

Easing in

It is important not to rush young crochet makers and always keep things positive. Choosing a project they want to make will mentally give them something to work towards and instil a sense of pride in their finished product; for example, projects such as blankets and scarves are easy but making an item they are likely to engage with, such as a toy, can be a better idea. Crochet kits from retailers such as https://www.woolcouturecompany.com/collections/crochet-kits contain everything young crocheters and parents need to get started.

A word on safety

Children should be encouraged to take up new skills and have fun, but it is extremely important with crochet that they do so supervised. Crochet hooks and yarn in inexperienced hands could become harmful, so make it a supervised project you do together.