In our little sewing school we started with threading the machine and winding a bobbin...left cleaning, maintenance till after first completed project. We started with pillowcases and draw string pants. The kids had to draft, size their own pants and even the 7 year olds loved this. After those two projects the kids each chose their own next project to be given to someone as a gift... 3 of the boys made quilts and pillows for their moms, the girls made purses, totes with box corners and skirts. One ambitious young man (he was 10) made his dad a pair of pants and a Hunting / fishing vest -- lots of pockets, zippers,buttons... His dad was in tears... They even fit ! The kids really enjoyed creating things they felt were (useful) . they were not very interested in (quilting) until second/third year, exception the occasional gift quilt... New baby sister coming, mom's birthday... They wanted to make toys, clothes, fun... We had creative sewer's from 4 yrs old on up to 80...the kids classes were set up (4-11) (12-15) and then (16- up)