MakerKids is one of the only kids' makerspaces in the world located in Toronto. It aims to inspire and empower kids aged 3+ to think creatively, design, build ideas, experiment and create through various after-school programs, camps, and workshops. The space provides tools and resources for activities in areas like 3D printing, electronics, crafts, robotics, and more in a self-directed, collaborative learning environment modeled after Montessori education. MakerKids has served thousands of kids, many with mental health diagnoses, and gained international recognition.

1. MAKERKIDS PITCH PRESENTATION
Jennifer Turliuk, Co-Executive Director, MakerKids – jenn@makerkids.ca

2. • One of the only kids’ makerspaces in the world;
workshop inToronto with worldwide recognition
• Goal:To inspire/empower kids aged 3+ to think,
design, build ideas, experiment and create
• Programs: after-school, camps, workshops, etc
• Montessori for the 21st century: Self-directed
learning and discovery, collaborative learning
• 60%Tech: 3D printing, electronics, tools, crafts
• A community resource: high profile external
events; attract kids with mental health diagnoses

3. Who are we?
Founder & Co-Executive
Director (Learning):
Andy Forest, lifelong tinkerer
Co-Executive Director
(Business): Jennifer Turliuk,
Singularity University (NASA)
Founder; Board of Directors:
Marianne Mader, Centre for
Planetary Resources (UWO)
CEO of Arduino
Massimo Banzi
CEO of Maker Media (MAKE Magazine; Maker
Faire)
Former VP at HP Canada
Christine Gauthier
BOARD OF ADVISORS:
MakerKids:
-Board of Directors: 3
-FT staff: 1
-PT staff: 3
-Freelance instructors: 7
-Volunteers: 30+ active
-Board of Advisors: 3
-Kids served: 1000’s

4. 3D Printing WoodworkingElectronics Arduino
CraftsProgramming Robot battleChariot building
Minecraft InventionsRobotics Toy hacking
Rocket launching SewingJewellery making Candy/food making

5. Kids Open Shop (PWYC)
After-school programs
TeensOpen Shop AdultsOpen Shop
Minecraft Drop-in ThemedWorkshops
Summer Camps Birthday Parties External Events

6. MakerKids' Recipe:
1. Dedicated Space
2. RealTools
3. Process over Product
• It’s OK to fail
• Experiential learning (learn by doing)
• Choose to celebrate making, not just what they’ve made
4. Interest-Driven
5. KidsTeaching Kids
6. KidsTeaching Us
7. Exhibition
8. Community

7. Successes/Media Coverage
Also featured on:
Impact:
-Programs at MakerKids: 1000+ kids.
Many come from all over the GTA and beyond,
and an estimated 50%+ have mental health
diagnoses
-External programs: 5000+ kids
-Reported improved engagement, behavior,
confidence, and social skills
-International speaking engagements in Rome,
England, Chicago, Washington, and more
-Requests for franchises from all over the world

8. THANKYOU
Jennifer Turliuk, Co-Executive Director, MakerKids – jenn@makerkids.ca