Dubai: Meet father who taught kids carpentry, metalwork from age 5

In a heartwarming tale of family and tradition, Ghanem Abdullah Al Muhairi, an Emirati father of five, has been teaching his children carpentry and metalwork since they were just five years old. Al Muhairi, who learned these skills from his own father, believes in nurturing curiosity and self-reliance in his children from a young age. Instead of conventional toys, his children were introduced to tools like hammers, nails, and wood carving machines, crafting their first chairs from iron and wood. This early exposure not only taught them patience, focus, and precision but also instilled a sense of accomplishment and creativity. Al Muhairi emphasized that his approach is not merely for entertainment but to impart essential life skills and values such as teamwork and discipline. He also prioritizes safety, guiding his children through every step and ensuring they understand potential risks. Al Muhairi’s initiative extends beyond his family. Through his Instagram account ‘klna rban’ (We Are All Captains), he shares videos of practical activities like assembling sinks, repairing furniture, and car maintenance, aiming to inspire other families. The account has garnered positive feedback, with many praising the focus on productive tasks over screen time. Al Muhairi has also expanded his efforts by conducting workshops for children aged 10 to 18, teaching skills like plumbing, agriculture, and electricity. He now plans to establish a permanent center to teach traditional Emirati crafts in a modern way, ensuring these valuable skills are passed on to future generations.