Using Adult Tools

In their Beginnings Workshop article, "Tools that Empower," Emily Viehauser and Megan Arnim talk about the value of exposing children to real adult tools, not just toy-like replicas:

"Children are inherent creators and communicators.  Natural and open-ended materials, fine art, and adult tools are important resources to support them in their steadfast ability to make discoveries, learn new skills, and communicate their thoughts and ideas to the world around them. When children have the opportunity to use real tools, they build relationships with these instruments and learn about the abilities, limitations, and distinctions of the physical world, as well as their own.

"Making these tools available to children broadcasts our respect for them, and encourages them to continue seeing themselves as powerful players in their own learning experiences.  We communicate to children that they are competent, creative, and that they are people with important ideas.  As Hattie (age 5) reminds us, 'You might get a little disappointed at first because when I was practicing I thought I would never make it, but then I figured it out and now I feel proud.'"

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