I recently came across an interesting and timely article by Lisa Bloom for the Huffington Post. The article is a call for change as it relates to girls, how adults speak to them and thier self-esteem. It is a call for a change in pattern, a large pattern seen in society.
"Teaching girls that their appearance is the first thing you notice tells them that looks are more important than anything." - Lisa Bloom
Breaking the habit of connecting based on looks is just about as hard as breaking the habit of saying "you are so smart" or "good job". (At least it has been for me!)
When I am designing or making for my little ones I often try to focus on function and collaboration, as opposed to mere aesthetics. Sometimes this looks like measuring some books to see how big a book bag needs to be and sometimes it is merely asking a little one to pick out the buttons. Part of this is due to the fact that I have learned that with more collaboration the items I make are more likely to be used and choosen over mass produced products. My hope is that I am teaching my children about the arts (mostly textile arts), teaching them to think independently (not to dress like everyone else) and also that I am building their self-esteem. High hopes right?
That is why I love this project, a crocheted money belt. At 5 1/2 Cassidy seeks opportunities to show autonomy. She is in control and in charge these days, in so many ways. This money belt was just the tool Cassidy needed last week when she was "in charge" of the spending money at the local farmer's market. The belt offered her an opportunity to stretch herself and show her independence, an opportunity to know what it feels like to be prepared and organized.
As with most of the projects that I share in hopes that you will dive in and make something of your own, I highly recommend taking a good look at this schematic and then go for it. Download Schematic for Belt However, if you are the type that wants specifics, I did take notes. Download Farmer Market Crochet Belt
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