how to knit in every type of homeschool

if you’re A HOMESCHOOL MOM WHO WANTS TO ADD KNITTING TO YOUR SCHOOL YEAR, THIS IS THE ARTICLE FOR YOU! THE GOOD NEWS IS THAT KNITTING IS TIMELESS AND HAS BEEN PASSED DOWN ACROSS THE WORLD for thousands of years. keep on reading to learn how to knit in every type of homeschool environment.

This post contains affiliate links, which means I make a small commission at no additional cost to you. Please read my disclosure for more info.

the importance of teaching children how to knit in every type of homeschool

Knitting is here to stay, folks. Whether you view knitting as a life skill, handicraft, art, hobby, or anything else, knitting has survived the test of time and is for everyone. No matter where you live or how you learn (or teach!) knitting is something that all children can and should learn. There are so many benefits to knitting, and knitting is the perfect addition to your homeschool. But most of us are stuck on how to knit in every type of homeschool.

Being both creative and educational, the desire to knit is natural. Although I’d like to imagine how cool it would have been if Eve was a knitter, we humans need clothes and protection from the elements on Earth. The cool thing is that knitting is really just yarn and needles at its core, and you can adapt it to different homeschool styles.

Maybe you’re coordinating “Little House on the Prairie” books with your knitting projects like a Charlotte Mason homeschooler. Or you could be identifying regional stitch patterns and color work like a worldschooler. It’s also possible to explore historical knitting techniques throughout time like a classical homeschooler. Scroll through to get an idea of how you might want to add knitting to your curriculum this homeschool year!

Classical Homeschooling Approach

The Classical homeschool approach is all about structured learning and mastery of skills. Students progress through stages, starting with memorization and grammar, then moving on to critical thinking, and finally learning effective communication and expression. This style uses a a tough curriculum and disciplined study habits. It aims to cultivate well-rounded, articulate, and intellectually capable individuals.

how to knit in every type of homeschool: classical

For classical knitters, I recommend starting with basic stitches and progressing to simple patterns. You as the teacher can incorporate knitting into history lessons by exploring historical knitting techniques. Or, create period-inspired projects.

Bring knitting into your curriculum with these three ideas:

Historical Context and Skills Development

Introduce knitting as a practical skill that was historically valued and essential in many cultures. Discuss its origins and significance in different societies, aligning with the classical approach’s emphasis on understanding historical contexts and the development of human skills over time.

Mathematics and Geometry

Use knitting to teach mathematical concepts such as patterns, sequences, and geometry. Knitting involves counting stitches and rows, understanding symmetry in designs, and even exploring geometric shapes through the construction of garments or accessories.

Literature and Language Arts

Incorporate knitting into literature studies by exploring works that mention knitting or crafts, or by reading about authors who were known for their needlework. Additionally, students can write essays or stories inspired by their knitting projects, connecting their hands-on experiences with language arts skills such as creative writing, vocabulary expansion, and critical thinking.

By incorporating knitting into a Classical homeschool curriculum, students not only engage in a practical and creative activity but also deepen their understanding of historical context, mathematical principles, and language arts skills, aligning with the method’s emphasis on structured learning and mastery of diverse skills.

Charlotte Mason Homeschooling Approach

The Charlotte Mason method places a strong emphasis on “living books,” which are engaging and narrative-driven texts written by experts or authors with a passion for their subjects. These books inspire a love for learning and connect students directly to knowledge. It also encourages nature studies, where students observe and interact with the natural world to cultivate a sense of wonder and curiosity. Hands-on learning experiences are also important, and children specifically sit down each week to work on a handicraft. Overall, the Charlotte Mason approach aims to nurture a child’s whole person by fostering a love of learning through living books, direct experiences in nature, and active engagement in meaningful activities.

how to knit in every type of homeschool: charlotte mason

Incorporating knitting into a Charlotte Mason homeschool curriculum aligns well with its emphasis on hands-on learning, practical skills, and engaging with the natural world.

Here are three ways to integrate knitting:

Nature Study and Observation

Use knitting as a way to connect with nature by exploring natural fibers like wool and cotton. Discuss the process of how these fibers are obtained from animals or plants, linking it to nature study topics. Encourage students to observe and appreciate the properties of different yarns and how they vary, promoting a deeper understanding of natural materials.

Living Books and Handicrafts

Introduce knitting through living books that discuss the history of textiles, traditional crafts, or stories that feature knitting. Use these books to inspire students and connect them emotionally to the craft. Encourage them to read about famous knitters or characters known for their knitting skills, fostering a love for learning through narrative-driven texts.

Handicrafts and Character Development

Incorporate knitting as a regular handicraft activity in your schedule. Focus on the virtues of patience, perseverance, and attention to detail that are developed through knitting. Use it as a practical way to teach children about the importance of craftsmanship and the satisfaction of creating something useful and beautiful with their own hands.

By adding knitting to a Charlotte Mason homeschool curriculum, you not only enrich the educational experience with practical skills and creative expression but also foster a deeper connection to nature and cultivate valuable character traits in students.

Unschooling Homeschooling Approach

Unschooling is a philosophy of education that advocates for child-led learning and interest-driven education. It believes that children learn best when they pursue their own interests and passions in a supportive environment rather than following a predetermined curriculum. Unschooling encourages exploration, hands-on experiences, and learning from real-life situations, allowing children to develop at their own pace and focus on what excites them most. Parents act as facilitators and provide resources and guidance based on their children’s interests and needs, fostering a love for learning and autonomy in education.

how to knit in every type of homeschool: unschooling

Here are three ways to incorporate knitting into an unschooling homeschool curriculum:

Exploration and Experimentation

Introduce knitting materials and tools to your child and allow them to explore and experiment freely. Provide a variety of yarns and needles of different sizes to encourage curiosity and tactile exploration. Let them discover the different textures, colors, and techniques on their own terms.

Project-Based Learning

Encourage your child to choose knitting projects based on their interests. This could range from creating simple scarves or hats to more complex designs like stuffed animals or clothing items. Support them in setting goals, planning their projects, and problem-solving as they encounter challenges along the way.

Integration with Other Subjects

Use knitting as a gateway to learning across various subjects. For example, explore the mathematics involved in counting stitches and rows, or study the history and cultural significance of knitting in different societies. Incorporate literacy skills by reading books about knitting or famous knitters, and encourage writing through journaling about their knitting experiences or documenting their projects.

By adding knitting to an unschooling homeschool curriculum, you empower your child to learn through their interests, foster creativity and self-expression, and promote lifelong learning skills such as perseverance and independent thinking.

Eclectic Homeschooling Approach

The Eclectic homeschool approach emphasizes flexibility by allowing parents to combine various educational methods and resources based on their child’s individual needs and interests. Rather than adhering strictly to one educational philosophy, Eclectic homeschoolers draw from multiple approaches, curriculum materials, and teaching styles to create a customized learning experience. This method values the freedom to choose what works best for each subject or topic, tailoring education to fit the unique learning style and pace of the child.

how to knit in every type of homeschool: eclectic

Try using a mix of online resources, books, and hands-on activities to teach knitting. There are a lot of benefits of integrating math (counting stitches, measuring gauge) and art (choosing colors, designing patterns) into knitting projects.

Here are three ways to incorporate knitting into an Eclectic homeschool curriculum:

Interest-Based Learning

Introduce knitting as a hobby or skill based on your child’s interests. Allow them to choose knitting projects that appeal to them, such as making accessories, toys, or clothing items. Encourage them to explore different yarns, patterns, and techniques according to their preferences.

Cross-Disciplinary Integration

Integrate knitting across various subjects to enrich learning experiences. For example, explore the mathematics involved in measuring yarn, counting stitches, and understanding patterns. Connect knitting to history by studying the cultural significance of textiles and the evolution of knitting techniques over time.

Creative Expression and Fine Motor Skills

Use knitting to promote creativity and develop fine motor skills. Incorporate storytelling or writing activities related to their knitting projects, encouraging them to create narratives or instructions. Focus on the process of knitting as a way to enhance patience, perseverance, and attention to detail.

By incorporating knitting into an Eclectic homeschool curriculum, you leverage its flexibility to cater to your child’s interests and learning styles while fostering creativity, critical thinking, and practical skills in a personalized educational environment.

unit study Homeschooling Approach

The Unit Study homeschool approach focuses on integrating various subjects into cohesive units of study, centered around a central theme or topic. It allows for a comprehensive exploration of a subject by combining elements from different disciplines such as history, science, literature, and arts into one cohesive learning experience.

how to knit in every type of homeschool: unit study

Unit studies encourage hands-on activities, project-based learning, and deep engagement with the topic, fostering a holistic understanding that goes beyond individual subjects. Here are three ways to incorporate knitting into a Unit Study homeschool curriculum:

Historical Perspective

Choose a historical period or culture where knitting played a significant role, such as during the Renaissance or Victorian era. Study the history of knitting techniques, materials used, and the societal impact of knitting during that time. Incorporate readings of literature from the period that mention knitting or crafts.

Science and Mathematics

Explore the scientific aspects of knitting, such as the properties of different yarn fibers and their environmental impact. Integrate mathematical concepts by designing knitting patterns, calculating gauge, and measuring yarn lengths. Experiment with color theory and geometry through knitting patterns.

Language Arts and Creative Expression

Use knitting as a basis for language arts activities, such as writing stories or poems inspired by knitting or famous knitters. Read literature related to knitting or crafts, and discuss themes such as creativity, craftsmanship, and perseverance. Encourage students to express their thoughts and emotions through their knitting projects, fostering creative expression and communication skills.