LONDON, September 1, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- As term time approaches, three quarters of adults think that schools aren't doing enough to develop practical skills like woodwork in children, according to a TNS survey released today. Celebrity DIY expert Tommy Walsh agrees, and is backing a drive to increase practical skills, both at home and in the classroom.
The survey, of people in Great Britain aged 16-64, shows that 93 per cent think that practical skills are just as important as academic subjects. Conversely, it shows that 75 per cent of parents believe schools aren't devoting enough time to supporting children looking for careers in this area.
74 per cent of parents also see an internship or apprenticeship as equally good career preparation as going to university. This is particularly relevant in light of graduates' ongoing struggle to find work in a congested job market.
The survey also found that older parents believe practical skills are very important. Creative hobbies were also deemed to be the best ways for children to spend their playtime with 35 per cent of parents wanting to encourage this.
The survey was commissioned by JAKKS Pacific Inc. in conjunction with the launch of Real Construction(TM), a range of construction activity sets that allow kids to build whatever they can imagine. Real Construction uses a combination of realistic tools and revolutionary Kid-Wood(TM), a unique, durable foam material specially designed to look, saw, nail and build just like real wood, but which is easy-to-use, safe, and mess-free. Tommy Walsh, who is helping to launch the product to the UK, comments:
Products like this can never be a replacement for practical teaching in schools but they can help support children's development outside of the classroom. This kind of practical activity also has significant educational benefits; helping children to develop problem solving and logic skills, as well as creative skills.
A June 2008 Ofsted report supports concerns, suggesting that schools neglect traditional craft skills due to a shortage of trained staff. Inspectors said some schools have ditched craft lessons altogether in favour of computer programmes, believing that this presents a more modern and academic image.
Tommy Walsh comments: In this computer-dominated age, it's important for children to value and explore their practical side and toys like Real Construction allow kids to acquire hands-on skills that will help them throughout their lives.
PHOTO CAPTION COPY:
Celebrity DIY expert Tommy Walsh launches the Real Construction toy range at The Entertainer store, Westfield Centre, London, this week.
Tommy is backing a drive to get kids building, following a TNS survey which revealed parents' concerns over limited practical teaching in schools.
According to the survey, three quarters of parents believe children are not being taught enough practical lessons like woodwork.
The survey was commissioned by JAKKS Pacific to coincide with the launch of its Real Construction activity sets for children.
Note to Editors:
A picture accompanying this release is available through the PA Photowire. It can be downloaded from http://www.pa-mediapoint.press.net or viewed at http://www.mediapoint.press.net or http://www.prnewswire.co.uk.
Further information and hi-res images available on request Contact Lydia Ford or Michele Norton at the Jakks Pacific press office +44(0)1608-812830 / Lydia@nortonandco.com or Michele@nortonandco.com
SOURCE: JAKKS Pacific Inc.
CONTACT: Further information and hi-res images available on requestContact Lydia Ford or Michele Norton at the Jakks Pacific press office+44(0)1608-812830 / Lydia@nortonandco.com or Michele@nortonandco.com
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