What are the benefits of engaging young people in making?

Here are the five key competencies that we identified as outcomes for young people who participate in Start Making!

1. Identify as a creator or maker. Young people develop positive attitudes toward creating hands-on projects.
2. Develop confidence in creative expression. Young people feel capable of bringing their ideas to life by designing, experimenting, iterating, and persisting through failures.
3. Acquire technical tool literacy. Young people become familiar with a variety of tools and technologies that they can use to make projects.
4. Become aware of STEAM. Young people become aware of ideas and concepts that bridge science, technology, engineering, art, and math and demonstrate curiosity to learn more.
5. Learn collaboration and networking skills. Young people actively engage in collaborating and helping others.

Start Making! A Guide to Engaging Young People in Maker Activities
By Danielle Martin and Alisha Panjwani edited by Natalie Rusk

What are the attributes of a maker? What is a maker mindset?

• Makers are curious. They are explorers. They pursue projects that they personally find interesting.
• Makers are playful. They often work on projects that show a sense of whimsy.
• Makers are willing to take on risk. They aren’t afraid to try things that haven’t been done before.
• Makers take on responsibility. They enjoy taking on projects that can help others.
• Makers are persistent. They don’t give up easily.
• Makers are resourceful. They look for materials and inspiration in unlikely places.
• Makers share—their knowledge, their tools, and their support.
• Makers are optimistic. They believe that they can make a difference in the world.

Making Makers: Kids, Tools and the Future of Innovation
By AnnMarie Thomas