I have to laugh because Adam (5yo) is already talking about taking "Black Bear" to college with him. Black Bear is his Build-a-Bear best friend but we refer to him as our 3rd child. Adam may just take Black Bear's new quilt along to college too! LOL.

:lol:

Great suggestions. Thanks! I hadn't thought about a child-size table. We gave ours away already but may be able to find one to borrow.

I have a Clover mini-iron that I'm going to have them use instead of the heavy full-size iron. I think it will work well for them.

Thank you. I thought I'd do this for my youngest. He just turned 4 last week so he's VERY young to be trying this. With him on my lap, I'll also be able to help guide his fingers and keep them well away from the needle.

My oldest is definitely going to want to try on his own. He's almost 6 and if I can find a small table or get the foot pedal up to a workable height, I think he'll do well.

I really appreciate everyone's suggestions! Next question:

do I try a simple pattern (ie. 9P or 4P) or are crumb blocks better for beginners?

I don't know if I could my son to do that? But, saving him is another thing!! :lol: :lol: :lol:

A block that can be squared up at the end is a great idea... plus, it gives them the chance to play with lots of colored scraps :D:D:D

I sat on my mom's lap to 'help' hem cuptowels for my grandmother when I was about 5.

there are a lot of tips for what you are asking in Georgia Bonesteel's book "New Ideas for Lap Quilting", although the "kids" she is teaching are a bit older than 5!
You may find it in your local library-it's an old one.
wow, they sure are growing them smarter! good luck!

I'll have to look into that. Now I'm wondering, when the book says "Lap Quilting" is it referring to lap-size quilts, or quilting with a child on your lap?

:lol: :lol:

I second this idea. However, if you're not picky really 4patches can be squared up at the end too.