Register for Weekly Programs:
Mini Makers
Welcome mini MakerKids! This program is designed for little ones who like to think big. Kids will learn how to create and make using various platforms and gadgets. Kids will be exposed to both technical and 21st-century skills, like creativity and confidence. Based on STEM education, kids will build a strong foundation for out-of-the-box thinking, coding and how computers work. Using logic and design, kids will make something amazing and out of this world.
Kids will learn how to use key technology, like computers and pre-built robotics. Key skills kids will learn include: design, the design process, game design, problem-solving and planning. Kids will create, experiment, adjust and retry. The fundamentals of electricity, energy, and programming (how computers think) will be covered in fun ways that kids get to see in action!
Mini MakerKids introduces kids in grades 1 and 2 to our core technology topics: Coding and Robotics. In our Mini MakerKids programs, your child gets to work on a variety of projects in small groups. They will design their own video game, create robotic inventions, and do design and experimentation. Each class your child will build on the skills they learned the week before, coming out of programs with transferable technical skills and social skills.
The weekly cross-discipline exposure puts a focus on valuable skills and coming back to now familiar platforms each day allows kids to see real progress as their abilities grow.
Skills Learned: Social Skills, Confidence, Design, Problem-solving, Game Design, Electronics and Planning
Kids learn core skills that get applied in projects to integrate their learning and make it fun. Some of the core skills learned and sample projects made include:
- Coding
- Intro to Scratch’s Interface
- Coding Characters’ Looks
- Custom Character Costumes
- Project: Moustache Party
- Events (triggering code to run)
- Project: Plant Watering
- Project: Plant Watering (Watering Can)
- Relative Motion (make sprites move)
- Absolute Motion (make sprites move)
- Repeat Loops (repeating your code)
- Project: Walk the line
- Forever Loops (never ending games)
- Project: Walk around the circle
- Robotics:
- Microbit and MakeCode (coding Microbits)
- Input Events (Buttons and Shaking)
- Songs and Sounds with Buzzers
- Project: Flashy Heart
- Project: Smiley Button
- Project: Love Meter
- Project: Coin Flipper
Coding: Skills Learned
MakerKids Mindset for Coding: Resilience
Coding requires a lot of trial and error. Programmers spend most of their time figuring out why the code they think should be working, keeps failing. The resilience to dig into error messages, run countless tests, address numerous bugs, and often starting from scratch with a different approach, is what eventually leads to rewarding success. This resilience can be used in many areas of life and is a valued skill worth having.
Robotics: Skills Learned
MakerKids Mindset for Robotics: Confidence
Robotics involves a lot of technical skill and deep thinking. Concepts like circuitry can be tricky to work with. The best understanding comes from seeing things in action, and that requires first giving it a try.
In addition to the testing required for inquiry-based learning, with robots, there are countless reasons why something doesn’t work as intended. Having the self-confidence to experiment while working through a problem and trying new things to see which one works is an asset in all areas of life.
Requirements for In-Person Programs:
- None! You can use one of our laptops or bring your own, if it has the specs below
Basic Requirements for Virtual Programs:
-
- A laptop or desktop
- Internet connection
- Headset with microphone and headphones (or computer with microphone and speakers)
- Keyboard and a mouse
- Chrome browser
- Webcam (optional)
For more information, visit our FAQ page.
Class Details
1 hour per week
Join for a 1 hour weekly timeslot
1:5 instructor:child ratio
1:5 instructor:child ratio or better
Project-based learning
A new project each week, allowing kids to join anytime. Projects combine foundational building blocks with new material, which teaches and reinforces concepts in new ways to learn by doing through project-based learning.
1 – 2+ years
Participants typically stay in this program for 1-2+ years.
Why Parents and Children Love MakerKids
Expert Facilitators
With a passion for youth and technology, our Maker Mentors recognize the uniqueness of your child and fosters their creative side and joy for STEM. Maker Mentors are trained to have students focus on the why and discover the logic behind the code instead of following a prescriptive set of instructions.
Engaging Curriculum
Weekly programs are built for all interests and experience levels. See the excitement in your child as they watch their work come to life. All classes include mini-lessons on internet safety and computer literacy so your child is better prepared to navigate the digital world.
Social Connections
With a 5 to 1 child to staff ratio and a focus on collaborative problem solving our classes are designed for your child to actively participate. Parents are amazed at how fast their child opens up socially, as they connect and build friendships with like-minded children.
Testimonial
“Our kids also enjoy learning a new coding language and I’ve watched my younger one who started off being a bit shy and unwilling to share online to make new friends and became one of the most talkative ones in class.”
– Debbie Fung
Success Story
Max, age 11
- After starting our program, Max taught a coding class at his school. Over a 10 week period, Max taught 60 different students after school, starting from grade 2.
- Max was a top four finalist for Best Game at his school’s street fair. He was even visited by the school district Vice President!
Meet An Instructor
Meet Ariel, One of Our Maker-Mentors
Certified Teacher with a Background in Early Childhood Education
Hello, my name is Ariel! I have worked for the YMCA, volunteered for day camps and had a number of placements in other learning spaces such as TDSB classrooms and the Boys and Girls Club. I completed my undergrad at Ryerson University where I studied Early Childhood Education. I most recently earned my Bachelors of Education at University of Ontario Institute of Technology where I graduated with the highest distinction. More simply put, I love learning.
Specialties: Teaching children with unique skills and abilities, meeting diverse learning needs and optimism!
