Children are now ready to return to knitting but with the new challenge of using 4 needles. The children are often happy to return to knitting and excited for the challenge. Making socks means the children have to look at and learn the shape of their own feet, and also observe the difference in size and shape of feet amongst their peers. They can choose a few colors to work with making stripes or patterns. Knitting is a relaxing and social activity, so as long as they can knit and talk they are welcome to have quiet conversation while they work. Children this age are now in a more balanced stage of their development and can work in a more independent and self-driven way. There are a few points in the sock — such as turning the heel and pointing the toe — that require complicated math for increasing or decreasing, and the children need to focus completely on their work. We will start out the year with making a pumpkin on 4 needles so the children can review knit and purl and learn to feel confident with 4 needles before beginning their socks.