Demonstrating woodworking to Cub Scouts. My woodworking group was contacted by the Den Leader of a Cub Scout Pack . She said the Cubs would be learning about woodworking and it would be nice if someone could demonstrate woodworking to the kids. I volunteered my garage workshop. They meet just 5 minutes from my home.
On the arranged evening, the cubs came by with their parents and I told them something about woodworking. What you can teach an 8/9 year old in 40 minutes is limited. What they were most interested in was the toys I had made (no surprise).
We did talk about Safety, Finishes, and Different types of woods. Highlights were: Some simple tools they can have in their toolbox. I told them that Shellac was made from the spit of the Lac Beetle and they were holding it (did you know that?).
There are many types of hardwoods. I had them lift and look at different types including oak, walnut, maple, mahogany, purple heart and teak. We agreed that teak is the heaviest and sinks in water. Sanding is important to get wood smooth. I had them use different grits of sandpaper and feel the results.
I did give them a brief overview of big power tools. Some of them wanted the scraps from my bandsaw saw cutoffs. They said they wanted to make something from them. The Den Leader told me later one of the boys made a castle with them. Made my heart glad. Future woodworkers for sure! I gave each cub a pocket car as a memento of their visit.
I enjoyed having the cubs over and hope they got a glimpse of something they may like to do in the future. I think with the lack of shop classes in schools, it is important for us woodworkers to share our hobby. Cub scouts can become future woodworkers.