Psychologist urges ministers to put arts and crafts on curriculum

Britain is in danger of becoming a "software instead of a screwdriver society", a psychologist has claimed.

In a report commissioned by the Ruskin Mill Educational Trust, Dr Aric Sigman argued that teachers need to address the lack of hands-on skills developed by children in schools, reports the Daily Mail.

He argued that arts and crafts must be given greater prominence in the curriculum, with subjects such as woodwork, handicrafts, metalwork and mechanics becoming a central part of teaching.

This, Dr Sigman claimed, will help children 'exercise' their brains, which is important for their intellectual development.

"Using their hands simply makes children more intelligent," he stated.

He added that children's educational progress is being hampered by the amount of time they spend on the computer.

According to research published this week by the University of New South Wales, a person is less likely to contract Alzheimer's if they remain mentally active.