Queen Elizabeth School students use crafting and math skills while knitting hats for newborns
PERTH — Grade 5/6 students at the Queen Elizabeth School are helping their close-knit community, one stitch at a time. The students, along with their teacher, Graeme McTavish, are knitting warm winter hats and will be donating them to newborns, youth centres, and emergency departments in Perth and the surrounding area.
McTavish has been incorporating hands-on math lessons in patterning and measurement into the project, and students have been canvasing the community to collect donations of soft, washable yarn. Perth Fabrics & Crafts, a local craft store, stepped in early to help with advice and supplies.
“I’ve always enjoyed crocheting, knitting, and cross-stitching,” says McTavish. “I thought the scale of knitting newborn hats would make it an accessible activity for the kids. Knitting improves fine motor skills, focus and attention, sequencing, and mindfulness and has been a really positive activity for the class.”
“It’s super fun,” said student William Adams. “I like how you just move your hands, you just sit down and knit.”
The class has also been writing project plans, reflecting on the initiative’s impact on those around them, and developing a taste for crafting and entrepreneurship along the way.
“I feel really good about it because I love making things for charities and helping other people,” said student Zoe Smith.
This project has been underway for the month of January and the class now has a large number of completed hats, ready for donation.
“Students are looking forward to getting their creations into the hands, or on the heads, of newborns and people around the area and beyond,” says McTavish.
Those interested in donating yarn are encouraged to drop it off at the Queen Elizabeth School, 80 Wilson Street, Perth. Community members may also contact Mr. McTavish at graeme.mctavish@ucdsb.on.ca to arrange pickup.
Media Release submitted by Upper Canada District School Board.
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