Why I Use Real Tools & Materials

When you step into one of my experiences (particularly Potions Craft), you’ll notice something that might surprise you: glass bottles with corked lids, ceramic bowls, tiny metal spoons, glass jars, and more... or, as some might call them, “things that break.”

These are not just for show. Every tool and material I bring to the table is intentional, purposeful, and deeply rooted in my own philosophy, my personal journey, and my professional practice.

I don’t use plastic or pretend versions of real tools unless absolutely necessary. Why? Because I believe children are capable, thoughtful learners who benefit profoundly from using real things in real ways.

The Beauty of Real Materials

Real tools bring weight, texture, and temperature that plastic simply can’t replicate. Glass feels different to hold. Metal spoons clink gently against ceramic. Even the soft pop of a cork has a sense of wonder in it.

These sensory experiences matter. They anchor us in the present. They invite mindfulness, focus, and care.

More importantly, when children are given access to real tools, they scaffold not only their physical developmental skills and their understanding of the world around them. They also learn they are trusted, that their presence has impact. They learn how to work safely and with respect, develop their sense of agency, and much more, through this experience-based learning method.

When children are given access to real tools, they slow down. They work more mindfully, with purpose. They rise to the occasion. Their confidence flourishes.

A Philosophy Grounded in Experience

With nearly two decades of experience in early childhood care and education, including time in settings inspired by Reggio Emilia and Forest School practices, I’ve seen the magic of “real-world” materials in action.

These environments don’t shy away from using glass, metal, and wood with young children. Instead, they trust children to learn through authentic experiences.

I observed time and time again children rise to meet that trust with such respect, agency, confidence, and mindfulness. Their pride and joy in their own success had such impact on me it stayed with me. I carry and apply the same respect to my own children and to the children who participate in The Painted Lady’s sessions.

Why It Matters for Potions Craft

In Potions Craft, children aren’t just crafting a pretend potion. They’re part of an immersive, sensory, and emotional experience.

The process is not just about play. It’s about belonging, choice, agency, and responsibility.

Using real tools communicates something important:
“You are trusted. You are capable. You are respected.”

When a child is handed a glass jar or a ceramic bowl, I don’t want them to just see it as an object. The goal is for them to feel the responsibility it carries.

I’ve observed over the years that they become gentler, more aware, and more intentional. This is a quiet but powerful way to teach respect, focus, and care.

More Than a Workshop

This is more than just an art or craft session. This is a deeply thought-out experience that supports each child’s confidence, creativity, and connection to the world around them.

It’s about quality over quantity, presence over performance.

The real tools, the handmade details, the layout of the space: all of it is part of a bigger picture.
A space that feels safe, special, and sacred.

What Happens If Something Breaks?

Many of us grew up being told off for breaking things, such as glassware or plates, or anything “too nice to touch.” For many, it didn’t teach confidence. It taught fear.

But breakages are part of life. Accidents happen. And in my view, they are valuable opportunities for children to develop problem-solving skills, emotional regulation, and personal responsibility.

As both an educator and parent, I’ve seen how rare breakages actually are when children are trusted with real tools. More importantly, I’ve seen how capable they become in responding to those moments.

I’ll admit, I’m the clumsy one in my house. Most of the “learning moments” come from me dropping things, not my children. But because they’ve grown up seeing calm, respectful responses, they mirror that back.

If something breaks or spills, they check in, assess the situation, and often handle it themselves with confidence and care.

One memorable  example was when my daughter, then seven, accidentally spilled water on one of my favourite story books. She immediately came to me and said,
“Mum, I spilt my water accidently, and it’s gone on one of your favourite books, I’m really sorry, I’ve dried most of it up but I don’t know how to dry the book, can you help me?”

That kind of honesty, empathy, and initiative is exactly what I hope to nurture. And we fixed it together.

In the three years I’ve offered Potions Craft publicly, I’ve only had three glass breakages. Two happened during the most recent school holidays. All three times, the children responded calmly, worked together to clean up, and no one was hurt.

Final Thoughts

Let’s raise capable, confident, and conscious little creators. one magical moment at a time.

If you’d like to experience Potions Craft, or learn more about my creative and sensory approaches in early childhood, follow along on social media.

As always; Thank you for supporting small, independent creatives.