About Aunt Sally
Aunt Sally's Knitting Legacy
Sally Kirwan discovered her love for knitting at the age of seven, learning the craft from her mother and during her time at Rathbeggan National School in Co. Meath. With remarkable skill and creativity, she could knit anything—from intricate patterns to designs inspired by her love of the craft. Her work travelled across the globe as gifts, with babies wrapped in her cardigans, adults proudly wearing her Aran jumpers, and children playing with her lovingly crafted toys.
Sally was also involved in knitting beautiful Galway wool squares for the St. Brigid cloaks, a project close to her heart that reflected her dedication to community and craft.
At 62, Sally was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease, yet her passion never wavered. She continued to knit until just three months before her passing at 64. To honour her legacy and lifelong love for knitting, her family invites donations to Wool in School, a cause dedicated to inspiring the next generation to embrace the craft Sally cherished so deeply.
Knitting and mindfulness
Knitting with children as a mindful craft offers numerous benefits that extend beyond the creation of handmade items. This engaging and calming activity supports their mental, emotional, and social development in various meaningful ways. Here are some of the key benefits:
Promotes Relaxation and Reduces Stress
The repetitive and rhythmic motions of knitting have a soothing effect, helping children relax and unwind. This meditative aspect of knitting can reduce stress and anxiety, providing a peaceful respite from the pressures of daily life.
Enhances Focus and Concentration
Knitting requires attention to detail and sustained concentration, which helps children improve their focus. This skill can translate to better performance in academic tasks and other activities that require prolonged attention.
Cultivates Patience and Perseverance
Learning to knit teaches children patience as they navigate the process of starting a project, working through mistakes, and completing it. The perseverance required to finish a knitting project builds resilience and the ability to handle challenges.
Boosts Self-Esteem and Confidence
Completing a knitting project gives children a sense of accomplishment and pride. Seeing a tangible result of their efforts enhances their self-esteem and confidence, reinforcing the belief that they can achieve their goals through dedication and hard work.
Encourages Creativity and Self-Expression
Knitting allows children to experiment with colours, patterns, and designs, fostering their creativity and imagination. It provides a medium for self-expression, where they can create unique pieces that reflect their personality and ideas.
Develops Fine Motor Skills
The precise hand movements involved in knitting enhance fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. These skills are crucial for various daily activities, such as writing, drawing, and using tools.
Teaches Mindfulness and Present Moment Awareness
Knitting encourages children to stay present and engaged in the activity at hand. This practice of mindfulness can help them develop greater awareness and appreciation for the present moment, contributing to their overall well-being.
Fosters Social Interaction and Community
Knitting can be a social activity that brings children together, whether in a classroom, community centre, or family setting. Group knitting sessions foster a sense of community, collaboration, and mutual support, enhancing social skills and building relationships.
Provides a Sense of Routine and Structure
Incorporating knitting into a child's routine can provide a comforting structure, offering a consistent and enjoyable activity to look forward to. This routine can be particularly beneficial for children who thrive on predictability and stability.
Connects Generations
Knitting is a timeless craft that can bridge generational gaps, allowing children to connect with older family members or mentors. This intergenerational bonding fosters the sharing of stories, traditions, and skills, enriching the child's cultural and familial connections.
Knitting in Schools
Wool in School founder Lorna McCormack teachers children how to knit through Heritage in Schools five series of visits.
Image - Rathbeggan National School Co Meath
