Episode 81: Sloyd, An Interview with Brittney McGann


Charlotte Mason was a proponent of the instruction in Sloyd. What is it, and when and how is it taught? Emily interviews guest Brittney McGann, who has researched the topic and practiced this subject in her home and has many practical tips to share and resources to recommend.

Listen Now:

Paper Sloyd: A Handbook for Primary Grades

The Teacher’s Handbook of Sloyd

Mathematics: An Instrument For Living Teaching

Books Charlotte Mason used for teaching Sloyd:

Grace to Build Retreat

Charlotte Mason Poetry Blog

Home Education on Audio

History of Sloyd Video

North Bennett Street School

Doug Stowe’s Woodworking Blog

More History of Sloyd

Parents’ Review Article on Sloyd

Wood Sloyd Projects

6 thoughts on “Episode 81: Sloyd, An Interview with Brittney McGann

  1. Laurie C

    I have been trying to find examples of cardboard modeling, but not having much luck. Most of what I am finding is “craft” projects. Heaton’s Cardboard modeling book is not available. Do you have any ideas what projects they might have done in Form 2 with cardboard or a good resource? Thanks

    1. Admin Post author

      A resource will be available shortly! I will link in the notes to this episode when it is published.

  2. Anna

    Just a quick reply that might redeem oragami. I saw an article recently where NASA was using oragami to build things in space. Much like you would an air bag for a car. Just wanted to share. I love your podcasts and keep up the good work!

    1. Admin Post author

      Anna, I just saw an article (thanks to your comment,) that NASA is looking to the public for an origami design for a new radiation shield. Wouldn’t it be the coolest thing, if some Charlotte Mason educated students, well versed in sloyd, became paper folders for NASA! Who knew?!
      ~Nicole

  3. Georgia

    I have also seen some stuff on how NASA uses origami. There is a great documentary on scientific uses of origami called Between The Folds. I definitely see the dilemma of kid origami projects piling up quickly and just end up being thrown away. I think there is value though in learning to approach art three dimentionally and how it can be used to solve real life problems. I’m just starting sloyd with my kids and they are living it!

Comments are closed.