You could have one of their first projects be a pillow or small wall quilt so they would have something they made to keep.

Learning to sandwich a quilt with a printed panel and tie the sandwich together would be easy. These small quilts could go to Project Linus also.

Here are some internet sites to help.

Here is a link that might be useful: teaching kids to quilt google search

You have to consider which age group you wish to address, availability of space and equipment, and the need for assistance in handling the group. It is a great idea and a rewarding one but needs a bit of planning to make it work. If you have a YMCA or a Salvation Army group to help you plan it and find interested children that would help. At one time I was a 4H leader and loved the results but always had a space problem. The need for a plan is the most important part I think. Good luck, Jayne

The younger the age group, the more assistance needed. We have a group that meets at the library for 8-13year olds. They require adult helpers for all the rotary cutting as well as the ironing.

I think it's important to teach hand piecing. My almost 7 year old can just now thread her own needle, but can't yet knot the thread to begin. She's been taught how to do a running stitch on two squares and turn right side out to stuff for a pillow. Then she does a whip stitch ('over & up') to close it up. She can also finish by knotting.

If you're thinking machine piecing, count on direct attention one at a time. This will be very time consuming with a group.

My 2 cents.

This year at school, I had a 4th grader (aged 10)who's family did not allow to go on field trips. Since she earned the privilege, but could not attend; I asked her if she would like to tac her own quilt in place of the field trip. She was so excited!. I took my frames to school, and she helped me to set the frames and sandwich the backing, batting and top. Then I showed her how to tac the quilt. It was crib sized: @45 x 65. (I call them lap quilts or travel quilts when I work with older children.)
We set the frames on the stage, although I could have set them up in the library. The other children were fascinated! They begged to make their own, and to help her with her quilt. She would come in to school early, tac as soon as she finished breakfast and lunch, and while waiting for pick up in the afternoons. I pinned the edges for her and showed her how to hem it with a blind stich. As soon as she finished, she wanted to do another. Next year we are planning a quilting club after school. We may have time to move on to pieced quilts, etc.; but the most important part is planting the seed!

Kudos to you for your desire to inspire!
Meima
(Debbie)
Principal,
Tilden Hogge Elementary School
Morehead, KY