Started when I was about 5 or 6 . Mom would send me off on my own into the bush with a little kitchen knife, because I liked to whittle. Made small boats , animals, spears etc. Different times and a different place
I can't imagine letting my kids do that now. Made me who I am today though, and wouldn't have traded it for the world! It really isn't that hard though. Get some modeling clay and try to make something out of it. If you can do that , you're off to a good start. Try carving a wood spirit on a piece of soft wood branch (Poplar or Cedar or similar) lots of how to's on that. A good sheepsfoot blade on a pocket knife can do wonders.
Good luck! Dave
