So far, our oldest boy is NOT as into handicrafts as I would like him to be. Strike that. He loves the idea, but because he’s a perfectionist, it’s difficult for him to be satisfied with beginner efforts. I’m having him put aside the knitting and frustration, with thoughts of spring.
For a free read, we’re reading Little House in the Big Woods. It’s not required, and I’ve had to censor out some less-than-okay terminology in Pa’s songs. But overall, it’s been fun for the boys. Yesterday we read the chapter about maple sugaring.
Today’s Laura Ingalls Wilder’s birthday, and in honor of her birthday, I thought I’d share what we’re going to be doing in a couple weeks.
Maple tapping.
My parents have graciously agreed to allow us to tap several of their maple trees in exchange for syrup. 
In a few weeks, I’ll update you on the installation of our taps. Our oldest will be designing labels, measuring, counting, predicting, and learning a skill that could be used as an entrepreneurial opportunity later in life if he desired. Because it IS a skill that is not useless and produces a beautiful product, I’m calling it our handicraft for end of the school year.