Kids are wired to learn. They are learning while they are playing so why not give them an environment where they can play while they are learning. A group of volunteers created a conference, which later became a 501(c)(3) charity, to give kids ages 7 thru 17 a technology playground. In this technology playground, children can explore science and technology, learn Internet safety and best practices…while having fun. They get to compete in a jrCTF, win prizes, get trained in hands-on workshops, listen to interesting speakers and interact with experts in the fields of IT and InfoSec. Just like you do at this conference. Hak4Kidz is addressing the growing need for our geeky kids wanting to become like their geeky parents. Hak4Kidz is creating a safe environment for these kids to find like minded peers to begin developing a community for them. If we can properly educate today’s generation as to how technology works and to push it’s limits rather than accepting how it works, ultimately, those kids will be better leaders. Leaders who will me making prudent decisions about technology as opposed to decisions based on fear. The Hak4Kidz CircleCityCon and Hak4Kidz Chicago conferences from 2015 have survey results demonstrating some of the success of Hak4Kidz. We will share our mission, our passion and hope to inspire you with the desire to organize a Hak4Kidz conference in your local city.
