Maker-Centered Learning: Empowering Young Innovators

Raising Innovators

Curiosity isn’t just cute—it’s a spark. When nurtured with the right tools and
mindset, it becomes the foundation of innovation.
In this episode of Raising Innovators, Edward P. Clapp, Ed.D. shares how
maker-centered learning transforms young children into confident creators.
At the heart of this approach is a bold idea: Children shouldn’t just learn about
the world—they should shape it.
The agency extends beyond the classroom. Edward emphasizes the power of
community, empowering teachers through collaboration and equipping
parents to bring this thinking home.

Dr. Edward Clapp: Founder and CEO of the Next World Learning Lab
Edward is a Principal Investigator at Project Zero (a research center at the
Harvard Graduate School of Education) and the Founder & CEO of the Next
World Learning Lab, a global learning and development organization
dedicated to lifelong learning, worldmaking, and innovation. His work
explores creativity, design, maker-centered learning, and new approaches to
education and equity. Some of Edward’s recent books include The
Participatory Creativity Guide for Educators; The Maker-Centered Learning
Playbook for Early Childhood Education; Envisioning Innovation in
Education—Hong Kong; Participatory Creativity; and Maker-Centered
Learning.

Website: https://pz.harvard.edu/who-we-are/people/edward-clapp
Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an
innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum
grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners
with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children
tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership
and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing
atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning.
Website: https://www.younginnovatorsacademy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/younginnovatorsacademy/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/younginnovatorsacademy/?hl=en
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YoungInnovatorsAcademy

Marnie Zettler is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the
demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom
teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has
dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional
education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future,
emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her
work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with
emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes.
Website: https://marnieforestieri.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marnieforestieri/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marnie-forestieri/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marnie_forestieri/