Writing Tools:
* Pencils: These were the most common writing tool for children. They were made of wood with a graphite core and required sharpening.
* Pen Nibs and Inkwells: Older children, especially in more affluent families, might use pen nibs dipped in inkwells. This required more skill and practice to master.
* Chalkboard and Chalk: Chalkboards were common in schools, and children would use chalk to practice their letters and numbers.
Writing Surfaces:
* Slate Boards: These were small, portable boards covered in slate. Children could write on them with chalk and then wipe the slate clean.
* Paper: Paper was more expensive, so children might use it for more formal assignments or letters. They often used paper notebooks, which could be reused with the help of pencil erasers.
* Writing Slates: These were wooden frames with a piece of slate inside. Children would write on the slate with a slate pencil.
Specific Examples:
* Primary School: Children in primary school would likely use slate boards or slates with chalk or slate pencils for practicing their letters and numbers.
* Secondary School: Older children would use notebooks and paper with pencils for more advanced writing tasks. They might also use pen nibs and inkwells.
* Home: Children might use paper for letters, drawings, and other creative writing activities.
Important Note: Access to materials varied depending on family income and location. Children from poorer families might only have access to basic supplies like pencils and paper, while children from wealthier families might have access to more expensive writing tools and supplies.