On Thursday, 6th March, we hosted author and maker Ryan Jenkins, who led a ‘tinkering’ workshop for families in the afternoon and educators in the evening. Participants explored the simple challenge of creating a balancing sculpture using everyday recycled materials, resulting in a variety of playful responses.
Tinkering is a powerful way to foster creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on learning. It encourages curiosity and resilience, allowing individuals to explore ideas through trial and error. In the classroom, finding time for tinkering can be challenging unless the activity clearly links to a sense of purposeful enquiry, often directed towards a singular learning objective. This is a shame, as one of the most rewarding aspects of creativity is the ability to make connections, think laterally, and take ownership of the direction of play.
‘We need people who can figure things out for themselves and not just accept the way something has always been done’.
– Ryan Jenkins, Author and Maker
If you are interested in learning more about tinkering, you can buy a copy of Ryan’s book ‘The Tinkering Workshop‘ by clicking here. Do also, visit his Wonderful Ideas Co. website for more info.
This was our first hosted event at shiftED’s Makerspace, and we are keen to support the fantastic network of arts educators and makers who wish to connect with children and young people and help inspire their creativity. Please do get in touch if you would like to discuss potential partnerships.
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