This month’s Kids to Kids spotlight shines on 11-year-old Macaulay Esser, a 5th grader at Cherry Valley who’s spinning her way into the hearts of her community with her incredible crochet creations. Macaulay isn’t your typical student—she’s a master of yarn, crafting amigurumi stuffies and plushies that she sells at local markets.

“My favorite activity is handwork,” Macaulay shares. “I love to knit and crochet. At school, I’m the only one who’s always crocheting, and I feel like it’s unique in every way.”

Her love for handmade treasures began a few years ago, and now she’s sharing her passion with friends. Last year, Macaulay started a one-of-a-kind club called "Needles, Threads, and Hooks." Every Thursday, she and her best friends walk home from school and gather under her big oak tree to knit, crochet, and learn from their friend Ms. Julie. “Ms. Julie always brings us cookies and baked goods,” Macaulay adds. “She teaches us key things about knitting and crocheting.”

What started as a small group of friends has grown into a tradition, with new members joining in over the past year. For Macaulay, the club isn’t just about crafting; it’s about building a sense of community. “The fact that we’re all friends from school and all girls makes it extra cool,” she says.

If she could have any superpower, Macaulay knows exactly what it would be: becoming the fastest crocheter on Earth! Imagine the countless stuffed animals and cozy creations she could whip up.

Her dream adventure? A trip to New Zealand to explore the world of top-tier yarn and learn about the country’s vibrant handwork traditions. And her favorite subject? You guessed it—knitting and crocheting! At her Waldorf school, she even got to take a dedicated handwork class that fueled her skills and creativity.

Looking to the future, Macaulay dreams big. She envisions running a farm with a cozy cafe and handwork business on the side. Her dream venture, "Coffee and Loops," would be a place where people gather to buy yarn, sip coffee, and knit together.

Macaulay’s talent, ambition and entrepreneurial spirit make her an inspiration to young creators everywhere. Keep chasing your dreams, Macaulay—one stitch at a time!