Both activities target the same area of the brain and can be mutually beneficial.
In many places throughout the US and Canada, hands-on shop classes have been disappearing. Shop still thrives in some areas, but in others, the subject has been cut out altogether. What’s the result? Not encouraging young men and women to dip their interest into hands-on work in highschool has led to a skilled trades shortage that keeps on getting worse. There seems to be a lack of trained skilled tradespeople all around from plumbers, to masons, electricians, window glaziers, woodworkers, and more.
Why has shop class been cut, then? The word on the street is that decision-makers have said the modern world no longer needs students to learn how to get around a wood shop or, what used to be “shop class for girls”, how to sew. New research is showing that by cutting out hands-on work, however, we might not only be facing a staffing problem in the long run.
Mechanical Tools and Language Building
Research is showing that using mechanical tools doesn’t only teach you how to hammer in a nail. The activity can also improve your language skills. A study done in France has shown that being good at using tools and being proficient in syntactic language involves the same neurological processes. Throughout the study, participants were asked to complete several motor training tests involving long pliers. They also completed syntax exercises in French.
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It was proven that motor training using a tool can improve a person’s ability to comprehend the construction of complex sentences. And it works in the reverse. Immersing yourself in complex language can improve your ability to use tools.
The research revealed that the area of your brain responsible for processing word meanings and other linguistic functions also helps with your fine motor skills. It’s called your basal ganglia.
Other Unexpected Activities That Build Language Skills
So, America, bring back shop class! It seems that everyone can benefit. Or, at the very least, we should get kids to do more crafts. Using tools isn’t the only activity that can help build language skills in humans. Other research has shown that anything that involves exercising both your gross and fine motor skills may show improvement.
Are you looking for ideas that can keep your kids busy throughout the holidays while boosting their fine motor and language skills? A quick trip to the local craft store can help load your dining room table. Things to try can include:
- Painting
- Playdough
- Beading
- Weaving
- Pasta necklaces
- Weaving with cardboard
- Pipe cleaner play
- Sewing
- Lego
- Drawing
- Doodling
- Salt dough creations
- Finger painting
- Paper bag weaving, and more
If there is no shop class in your local middle school or high school, consider approaching the school about the benefits one can present. Perhaps it can be brought back. Keep active and interested! For more on keeping your kids occupied during the holidays, click here.
photo credits: mihalec/Shutterstock.com
