 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Hands on Crafts for Kids
- i-Life, PBS
- Genre: Educational
Common Sense Media says
Weak crafting show; buy a book instead.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that if kids are at all interested in this program, they're going to want to make one of the featured crafts, which tend to require specialized materials you probably don't have on hand. It might be best to tape and preview the show in order to be prepared (or visit the show's Web site) if your TV listings offer episode information.
What's the story?
In HANDS ON CRAFTS FOR KIDS, each episode offers five projects that follow a theme, which is tentatively tied in to a lesson on the topic. For example, historical commentary on how trains and planes changed the world in the 20th century accompanied the creation of a magnetic checkers set. Projects, however, are presented quickly, are often complicated, and usually require special materials most families wouldn't have on hand. (New episodes promise simpler projects and shorter materials lists.) Specialized techniques are glossed over and basic ones, which might not be obvious to the target audience (such as pinning a pattern on to trace it or using a brad) are skipped entirely.
Is it any good?
This show is a great idea that's poorly executed. With the surge of home decorating and do-it-yourself programming available for adults, a project show for kids seems like a home run. Unfortunately, with its poor production values and uninspired presenters, this one seems unlikely to fill the void. The lessons, unfortunately, are no more inspiring than the presenters. All crafts require not only parental supervision, but also participation and explanation for any child young enough to be interested. What's more, there's often a long wait time between steps, a challenge for any child.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about which craft they might like to do and why, or what craft activities they've enjoyed in the past. This could also be a springboard for making holiday or birthday gifts.
- Show:
- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
AGE
Great show!
The crafts are fun a gratifying for the kids and adults! We watch it every week and look forward to it. It offers opportunities to discuss many things with your children and gives them a chance to explore something possibly new.
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AGE
Grands and Greats loves hands on!
I am a 63 year old grandmother of 16 grand children i love to watch this show because when my grand children come to visit we can look back at notes i made and create something for their age group. they enjoy doing hands on for crafts with me and i also enjoy them and seeing the excitement in there faces. Thank you! maggie ausemus
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| Topics: | history |
| TV rating: | TV-G |
| Networks: | i-Life, PBS |
| Cast: | Kathie Stull |
| Genre: | Educational |
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