How to Teach Kids to Crochet

Instructions
Things You'll Need:

Size-J hook
Worsted-weight yarn

1

Choose your tools carefully. The crochet hook, size J, should be easy to handle. Bamboo is a better choice for kids than aluminum or plastic. Teach with light pastel, bright or multicolored worsted-weight yarn.
2

Pick a quiet environment. You should teach crochet in daylight near a large window. Make sure there's a couch big enough for you and your child to sit comfortably side by side.
3

Teach your child single crochet first. This means you'll have to create a swatch so stitches are comfortable for a beginner to work with. Crochet a 2-inch fabric with 23 stitches across.
4

Move right along to double crochet once your pupil has mastered single crochet. Make sure she brings the yarn from back to front over the hook as this seems to be a particular problem with kids.
5

Show him how to make a slip knot. Be patient because this can look tricky to a child. Then go slowly through the motions of making a chain, emphasizing that it's actually the easiest part of crochet, once you get the hang of it.
6

Find a suitable pattern for your beginning crocheter (see Resources for a link). A scarf is the classic starter pattern, but consider a dishcloth or doll blanket if your child doesn't have much patience. Seeing a finished piece is a great motivator.
7

Get into advanced crochet techniques once your kids have mastered the basics. Teach them about gauge, yarn weights and crochet hook sizes so they can make clothes that will fit.