Although they may weigh less than 5 pounds, kittens can inflict a lot of property damage in a relatively short amount of time.
Their main weapon of destruction is the front claws, although some kittens will also chew items. The act of scratching is normal and provides multiple benefits to the cat, it: stretches their muscles, leaves a scent mark, leaves a visual mark and grooms the nail bed.
Cats are going to scratch, the key for successful management is to have the scratching targeted at acceptable items.
Kittens should be provided with acceptable scratching areas in prominent locations. These scratching areas should be sturdy, in the preferred orientation (horizontal or vertical) and made of preferred materials. Unacceptable targets should be made aversive or unavailable.