Fifth grader Zoe Sobanski has advice for anyone learning how to crochet: “Don’t try it if you don’t have patience.”
Sobanski is one of 14 fifth graders in Glacier Creek Middle School’s Crochet Club, led by social studies and literacy teacher Jennie Esser and paraeducator Kate Ottow.
“Jennie and I began the after-school club last year after talking about our current crochet projects day after day,” Ottow said. “We both have a love for the craft and wanted to share our skills with others.”
Ottow and Esser chose to focus on fifth graders for this year’s club since most after-school activities begin in sixth grade. After being overwhelmed with the response to last year’s club, they limited registration to 14 students.
“The club filled up in one day!” Ottow said.
Club members meet twice a week. Their creations include everything from scarves and blankets to smores, waffles, marshmallows and a basket of dumplings.
Sobanski learned to crochet when the club began a few weeks ago. She is crocheting chains to decorate her bedroom.
“It’s better than watching a video to learn how to crochet,” Sobanski said.
Esser said last year’s club met weekly, and she can see the impact of meeting twice a week with this year’s club members.
“They’re gaining skills faster,” Esser said. “It’s fun to see how proud they are of their work.”
Ottow shared why it’s important for students to have opportunities like this.
“We believe this is a great skill to have for a number of reasons: fine motor coordination, engaging in something other than screens, slowing our bodies down to allow for focus and concentration,” she said.
Esser agreed: “It’s a good lesson in doing something you’re not good at right away.”
Ottow said that students are gaining a lifelong skill as well as building their self-esteem and confidence. The club’s meetings are also a time for socializing and helping others.
“Our favorite part of the club is watching the children build their skills and seeing how proud they are,” Ottow said. “It is wonderful to see the students help each other and share ideas as well.”