#tooltuesday : knives

Knives!

We’ve seen a lot of cool knives out there but have not used one. If you love one let us know! We’d love to try one out! We use what we have. So here is a metal butter knife and a wooden butter knife. We have used plastic but surprisingly they can be sharp! 

First, we always point out that when we use tools they are not toys. They have a very specific purpose. I would go over that before handing them the knife. 

Then, show them how to gently touch the sharp part so they can feel how it feels. Then hand them the tool so they can mimic your touch. 

Another reminder repeating that they are using a tool, even if it isn’t THAT sharp doesn’t hurt. 

As you begin slicing and chopping things together, if you notice they aren’t looking as they’re slicing or acting a little goofy, a gentle reminder is good. Tools are to be respected and used properly or someone could get hurt and that would be sad. 

Also show them how you might cut the object. Teach them the tricks! Laying something on its flat side. Where to put the fingers of the hand holding the object to be cut. How to use a knife like a saw moving it back and forth. How to chop by placing a hand on top and pressing down. Tell them it’s a trick and it’s even cooler. Ask them how the feel using the knife. And sometimes they like you cutting with them. Most things are better together!