I love the idea of teaching them early. I have been sewing since the age of 10 little projects. My mom and dad gifted me my own brand new Riccar under the tree at Christmas. Haven't stopped since. So let me share some things learned over time: - when hesitant to trust young ones with scissors, Let them use their child approved scissors. Yes their child approved craft scissors will cut paper and fabric(one layer) with same consistency. Yes little known fact the same pair will cut paper and fabric without getting dull. - Give them projects that are either square or rectangular only to start. they can learn curve with much ease after mastering straight lines. - Interest boys in trying their favorite characters with capes and faux boots (similar to spats for shoes) basically the top part of sock sewn out of denim or heavy fabric and a piece of elastic across the bottom. Cape (NEVER Tie or Button around the neck) alternative they can sew velcro with help or even glue on the shoulder of and old t-shirt and then on the two tips of rectangular or square piece of fabric to attach as cape with the velcro. Let them embellish as they wish. They can add their initials to tshirt and back of cape. - Girls using the rectangle can make a one seamed skirt. Most young girls have not matured to having a curved shape. So measure around the hips and add 1.5 inches for ease and the add the seam allowance. (EX 24" hip +1.5" ease + (.5 Seam allowance x 2 =1") total 26") Cut your fabric 26" wide and you decide the length. For length include at lease 1.5 inched for hem and another 1.5 inches for waist (fold over 1.50" inches and fold under and sew .25" to create the casing for 1" elastic waist band.) This is a one seam skirt. You can teach to add a split or not. With a split there are options to turn around the body and have the split in the front, on the sides or in the back.This is a fun project for young girls their options to make are unlimited they create this again and again with different fabrics. Short, medium length, or even maxi length. Hope this helps! Happy Sewing!