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TWG Kids mentor resource

Start Here: Set Up a Good First Session

Use a short, prepared session to make the learner's first real choice clear and the adult's tool boundaries visible.

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Before the session

  • Choose one small learning goal, such as finding a reference edge or comparing two sanded surfaces.
  • Prepare only the materials the learner will handle and keep adult-controlled tools outside the active area.
  • Name the stop signal, cleanup location, and the next session's likely starting point.

During the session

  • Show one move, then let the learner explain what they notice before trying a released task.
  • Keep the project visible enough to inspect: labels, parts, measurement, and progress stay on the bench.
  • Pause rather than improvising when the material, setup, or readiness changes.

Finish well

Leave the space safer and easier to restart: return materials, label any unfinished work, note the learner's actual role, and decide the next adult-controlled check before the session ends.