Publications:
Color & Control:
FONTS:

How to raise a handy kid

Even if you aren’t up to fixing things around the house, it just might be time to learn a few “tricks of the trade” along with your children–boys and girls. You’ll be setting them up for a lifetime of greater self-sufficiency, fun and safety awareness.

Here are a few ideas to get you started…

1) Introduce D.I.Y. early
Depending on your kids’ abilities, start a tool box collection of tools out of chunky, easy to handle, harmless items like mini paint rollers and colourful clasps.

2) Visit the hardware store
Ask a store associate to show you the colours, noises and shapes from aisle to aisle. The descriptions can be fun to share and create a helpful dialogue to understanding the purpose of each tool.

3) Ask for help
You need to know enough to teach your kids simple tasks like measuring, taping or painting techniques. YouTube is a great place to start.

4) Attend kid-friendly workshops
Often hardware or repair stores have free weekend sessions—from fixing a bike tire, making picture frames, or assembling a bookcase.

5) Teach Safety
It’s important to teach kids about the number one rule in any construction
or DIY project: safety first. Wear eye protection, never use a tool for anything other than its intended purpose, and ensure hair is tied back and out of the way.

6) Choose Visible Projects
From fixing the fence to the front window, try to choose tasks that are highly visible. Seeing their projects on display will foster a sense of pride in their work and have them looking forward to the next project.

Complimentary Issue

If you would like to receive a free digital copy of this magazine enter your email.

Accessibility