When children learn how to knit or crochet, they develop a considerable amount of fine motor coordination that can help them throughout their lives.  Recent studies have found that having increased mobility and dexterity in the five motor muscles — especially those in the hand — helps stimulate brain cell development. By strengthening these muscles, kids will also be strengthening their brains. Involvement in knitting has been linked to better skills in math, reading and comprehension, problem-solving, critical thinking, and an overall desire to learn. It’s also been shown to help increase a child’s sense of personal responsibility, focus, creativity, and persistence. 

Knitting and crocheting also help children have better emotional well-being. Of adult respondents who participate in knitting or crocheting groups, 78% said they felt more social as a result, while 59% said they felt happy and 53% said they felt proud due to their involvement. Children who learn to work with fine cotton yarn on knitting projects reap many of these same benefits. They often exhibit better social behaviors, an increased sense of teamwork, and state that they feel calm and happy when they knit. It can also help ease anxious or self-conscious children by presenting them with a way they can cope with stress. Both the process and the end product result in an overwhelming sense of self-esteem and personal joy. Overall Knitting and crocheting as a hobby provides a creative outlet not only for adults but for children as well. It results in better physical dexterity, a more focused mind, and a calmer emotional state. 

National Yarn Council Certified Level 2, Knitting instructor.
National Yarn Council Certified Master Knitter.
I have been knitting for over 18 years and have taught for Hobby Lobby and a Local Yarn Store as well as private classes on and offline. 
I have been crocheting for about 8 years and I am working on my National Yarn Council Level 1 Crochet Instructor certification.