● programs
for students
our team of researchers, media experts & educators helps students explore creativity through engineering, animation, and digital storytelling — turning ideas into real art, learning, and action.
● engineer
learn to engineer: where young minds engineer & prototype!
what it is: our web-based tool fab@school maker studio has transformed thousands of elementary and middle school classrooms into hands-on innovation labs. students prototype and build real-world creations using just paper, cardstock, and cardboard. with an intuitive drag-and-drop interface, students can design pop-ups, geometric structures, and even working machines, all while learning core engineering and design principles.
who it’s for: k–8 students practicing engineering, early prototyping, spatial reasoning, & hands-on learning
why it works: it's affordable, accessible, and perfect for making STEM tangible, creative, and accessible to kids in k–8 with a uniquely simple drag-and-drop interface that doesn’t require expensive equipment. 96.6% of students report more interest in STEM after 8 weeks of using our software.*
* As reported in a 2018 PEAR Common Instrument survey of three Massachusetts school districts
● animate
learn to animate: bring stories to life, one frame at a time.
what it is: our web-based tool animation-ish empowers k–6 students to create animated stories, characters, and scenes, without needing prior experience or complex software. a simple, intuitive platform where students explore visual storytelling, sequencing, and creativity by animating ideas in a step-by-step, hands-on way.
who it’s for: k–6 learners developing creative expression, visual literacy, and critical thinking skills through storytelling and animation.
why it works: it’s accessible, engaging, and scaffolded to meet students where they are. students can start with just a wiggle-doodle, tracing a first drawing’s “onion skin” to build a simple animation that gives them the confidence to express themselves and experiment without fear of “mistakes.” designed by peter h. reynolds and featuring his unique artistic style, it’s easy for kids to latch onto and fall in love with after reading any of his books— especially the creatrilogy, and gain a deeper understanding of narrative and design concepts. teachers report higher engagement and improved comprehension when students animate concepts they’re learning.
● engineer
learn to film, podcast & produce: take a trip to our studio in greater boston!
what it is: a hands-on, scaffolded, experience in our media and technology lab (just outside of boston) where students can practice video production and podcasting in our recording studios and creating animated stories and characters using our animation-software, guided by our educators. students explore sequencing, visual storytelling, movement, and timing while developing creativity, patience, and attention to detail. younger students focus on basic animation techniques and story-building, while older students experiment with more complex scenes, layered animations, and narrative structure.
who it’s for: k–8 learners developing creative expression, visual literacy, storytelling skills, and confidence in communicating ideas and using tools in digital media.
why it works: it’s engaging, practical, and scaffolded for all ages. students gain confidence in digital media production, experiment creatively without fear of mistakes, and connect their projects to meaningful storytelling and service-learning opportunities. teachers report increased collaboration, stronger communication skills, and deeper understanding of narrative, design, and multimedia concepts.
● animate
write creatively: get published in a digital magazine for kids.
what it is: hutch magazine is a digital publication for kids that showcases creative work from young artists, writers, and storytellers around the world. it’s a space to share their ideas, explore new topics, and see their work celebrated in an online magazine format.
who it’s for:
kids of all ages looking to create, explore, and be inspired, plus teachers and parents who want to encourage creativity.
why it works:
it gives young creators a platform to showcase their work, build confidence, and develop storytelling and artistic skills—all in a fun, accessible, and inclusive online community.