One of the things about being an armourer is that local teachers suss me out to give lectures to their class. Ontario has a unit of medieval as part of Grade Four. That would make it a class of 9 and 10 year olds. Dress a teacher or a kid up in armour. Talk a little bit about different types of armour. Avoid all topics of politics and religion.
Actually the little fella looks kind of lost in amongst the armour.
The kids really seem to like it. They help to get the armour onto the more or less willing recipient.
We chat a bit about the difference between battle armour and jousting armour.
And we even get a chance to hold a real battle sword. With me holding the other end, you bet!
Fine, he's holding a sword...bit deal.
Now he's using the sword. I have their attention now!
I bring a large quantity of pliers and rings, and the kids try their hand at making chain mail. Surprisingly enough, their attention stays focused. 
Of course, there is always lots of other armour around for them to try on! Mostly chain mail, but a some other armour. Most is too heavy of course.
This exhausting job is made worthwhile by big grins on people's faces!
3 comments:
I am reminded of the Veggie Tales adaptation of the biblical David and Goliath story, when Jr. Asparagus, playing David, puts on the king’s armor and he pretty much looks like the kid in the picture. That’s really, really awesome that you do that for the kiddos. I used to do the same kind of thing, talking to classes about cave ecosystems when they are studying habitats. Maybe I’ll start up again… - Jen
I don't know how you keep up with all that you do, the ardent adventurer and traveller, toiler at the till, scholar, teacher, coffee drinker... Can I rub your elbow in hopes that some of your energy will rub off?!!! Actually, I rather envy your life. Sooo, smile and keep up the good works!
winks,
PCM
I think it is great you have the time to take history to the kids. They have to love the break in traditional classes and having a chance to wear and swing the real stuff, now that is just awesome!
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