DYK there’s a Lowe’s DIY-U workshop for kids?
Maybe you knew, maybe you didn’t, but we’re here with exciting scoop today: Lowe’s - as in Lowe’s Home Improvement where all of us have spent countless weekends at one time or another - offers free kids workshops at participating Lowe's stores!
They're part of the Lowe's Store DIY-U Workshops, a series dedicated to arming Lowe's customers big and small with helpful home improvement skills. The adult workshops focus on things like how to repair drywall and replacing a faucet, (i.e. stuff I've never learned!). However the kids version offer basic building skills kids will love to learn - with real tools! - in an easygoing setting. It's a great way for Lowe's to inspire the next generation of builders, or as CityKid Logan says, they are "so much fun!" But before you pack up your little builder for a workshop, let's break down a few KBYGs:
What to know before you go: The Lowe's DIY-U Workshop for kids edition...
1. They're free!
We repeat: DIY-Us are completely free workshops to attend. Workshop participants will be guided by one of the Lowe's store Red Vest experts thru the day's project, and families don't have to pay a participation fee of any kind. It even includes free kits from the store, complete with all the supplies kids will need!
2. They're best geared for kids ages 4-11.
While kids older than 11 may still have fun, the recommended ages for the Lowe's workshops are 4-11. Workshops last around an hour, so they may not be suited for much younger ages, and although parents will be present, kids should be able to work with a little direction from store associates guiding the workshop.
3. We recommend you pre-register.
While CityMom Ashley noted walk-in spots were available the day of the workshop her family attended, pre-registering on the Lowe's website guarantees a spot for your kiddo, and ensures one of the free kits is set aside for them.
4. They take place one a month.
Near us, these free kids workshops are offered on the third Saturday of the month. However CityMom Mara in Missouri says "I'm pretty sure ours take place on the first Saturday of the month!" Since your mileage may vary at Lowe's stores, make sure to check online or with your local store for their DIY-U hours. But a great surprise: Parents will be happy to know that these events are scheduled for Saturday mornings, so you won't have to worry about them conflicting with your work or school week!
5. Kids who attend multiple DIY workshops will earn a free tool bag.
Following the monthly events, kids will receive a cute badge to award them for their attendance. Attend 6 workshops, and your little builder will be upgraded to Junior Builder status. Once they attend 12 workshops, they'll be designated a Senior Builder, and get a free tool bag from Lowe's. These incentives really helped keep our kiddos engaged and interested in going back for more.
6. They offer a different project every month.
To kick-off spring, builders were guided thru steps on how to build a unique flower-shaped bird feeder. This past month, participants created a fun garden cart planter. Next month they'll create a Father's Day UTV. The variety of projects changes every month, making sure kids are engaged and excited to return.
Have a kiddo headed off to camp soon?
7. Think gifting.
It's a great way to create a unique gift from your kiddo to a family member, teacher, or friend! CityMom Anne said "My son's teacher loves butterflies, so we gifted his final product from the Little Scientist's first butterfly biome workshop to her and she won't stop talking about it! It made such an unexpected but great gift!"
8. They are mom-approved.
"I don't know... it's like my daughter was doing more than just a building project," says CityMom Jeanine. "The workshops always served as a great platform for my kids to develop a variety of skills like measuring and assembling parts, to painting and decorating, and even honing in on their listening skills, LOL. But mainly I loved that it gave them an opportunity to unleash their imagination with their creations."
