I feel like such a newbie, but this is the first time I have actually hot tanked a block, and had a machine shop do work on the block. So this is the first time I am putting in new freeze plugs (and my old VW didnt have freeze plugs )

I have to install new freeze plugs, and I am just checking to see if there is anything besides just driving the plugs into the block.
I am referring to special sealant, or something else...
I figured a small piece of wood and a hammer should be adequate to install the freeze plugs. Am I delusional?

no I think you have the right idea or even a large socket with ashop rag wrapped around it I suppose you could use some type of sealent I dont think Its needed. hope this helps goodluck

When installing freeze plugs....

Thing 1. the driver Must be the biggest one that will fit in the plug. Otherwise the plug could deform and not seal properly. It is common to use big sockets and a short JUNK extension to drive them. If you use wood, carve it to fit the plugs.

If the hole seems slightly rough, paint it with Permatex Super 300 sealer or Balkamp Aviation sealler. Drive the plug while the sealant is wet. This should seal any tiny poors or scratches. (Unlike Silicon, those sealers will not create "boogers" that could clog some small passage.)