Welcome!
    I'm a builder/designer who started volunteering in the schools when my own kids were in school. Much to my suprise kids were appreciative of the hands on activities I did (many copied from old science books) and I went on to teach woodworking and science for the city Parks Department. Parents and teachers kept asking about both woodworking and my set of Builder Boards so I wrote two books: Woodshop for Kids and Builder Boards. A description of these books and ordering information can be found below.
    On the "Do It Yourself" page are some other activities and projects I've done with kids. I hope this site motivates a few builders to tap into the magic of working with kids.     -- Jack McKee, Hands On Books

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WOODSHOP for KIDS         201 pages - 52 projects - $21.95

"....excellent advice on safety and tools. ...(the) projects are designed to excite kids, not overwhelm them." Asa Christiana, Editor, Fine Woodworking "...project instructions are well thought out... recommended...." Library Journal "If you have children or grandchildren buy this book. It's likely one of the best investments you'll make in 2006." Canadian Woodworker "I love this book!" Roy Underhill, host of PBS's The Woodright's Shop "....a breath of fresh air..." Deb Curtis, childcare teacher, author and adult educator

BUILDER BOARDS         48 pages - $12.95

"If you have kids or know kids, get this book, build these boards, and strike fire into their imaginations." Daniel Carter, This Old Workshop "Builder Boards are a great success at the Maine Discovery Museum." Andrea Stark, Director of Exhibits "Jack McKee has written a great little book." Becky Rupp, Home Education Magazine "Builder Boards are the first thing the children go to when they enter the playroom. They have hours of fun making the most creative 'houses'." Maureen Baker, Women Care Shelter

You may purchase these books via PayPal or mail, directly from the author at Hands On Books

WOODSHOP FOR KIDS 52 projects kids can build Book Description Woodshop for Kids has everything you'll need to know to get kids (ages 4-12) started using real tools to build real projects. Safety, tools, wood, measuring, hammering, nails and screws are discussed. Included are many tricks gleaned from Jack's 15 plus years of helping kids build with wood. Construction details for 52 projects are given. Projects range from the very simple like wood sanding, tops or puzzles for preschoolers to the more advanced like boxes, boats, yahoo stick or rope machine for older elementary age kids. Includes many photographs of kid-created projects. Author: Jack McKee ISBN: 978-1-884894-53-4 Over 100 B&W photos by the author Back matter: appendix, bibliography, index Category: how-to / kids / woodworking Distributors: Quality Books, BWI, MLS, Emory-Pratt Search inside Woodshop for Kids at Amazon.com 201 pages LCCN: 2005922022 Publication date: 2005 78 illustrations by Rusty Keeler Trim size: 8 1/2 X 11 Binding: lay-flat paperback Retail price: $21.95 More photos and illustrations See the book's Table of Contents Read the book's Chapter 1: Safety Do you need to be a woodworker to teach woodworking to kids? Is woodworking safe for kids? See the FAQ.

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BUILDER BOARDS How to construct a set of notched boards children use to build their own playhouse Book Description Jack McKee has designed a playhouse children can assemble themselves in many different configurations. His book describes how to construct a set of Builder Boards using either cedar fence boards or plywood. Plans include a materials list, all necessary measurements, plywood layout, and two methods of cutting the notches. He describes his experiences using Builder Boards and provides tips for managing issues that arise from their use. Included are engaging photographs of children's imaginative creations. Author: Jack McKee Publisher: Hands On Books ISBN 1-884-894-52-6 39 photos and illustrations Search inside Builder Boards at Amazon.com Publication date: 1997 48 pages Size 7 3/8 X 9 Perfect-bound paperback Retail price $12.95 Photos of Builder Boards in use indoors and out Description of an 8th grade community service project, building BBs for a local shelter What tools, materials, money, time, and skills will you need? See theFAQ. Also, a short history of Builder Boards, and ideas on getting a set built.

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Hands On Books - 1117 Lenora Court - Bellingham, WA 98225 - 360-671-9079 - fax 360-714-0774

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