Youth Digital + Shapeways Partner to Teach Kids How to Design & Print in 3D

Making the World of 3D Printing Accessible to Kids, Ages 8-14

Youth Digital announced today the release of their online "3D Printing & Modeling 1" course for kids, ages 8-14. Students will learn Blender — a professional-level, open-source 3D modeling and animation suite — to sculpt, texture, arrange and render their own 3D creation, in preparation for actual 3D printing.

The course leverages Youth Digital's breakthrough interactive learning platform, which includes the software tools, interactive videos, challenging activities, exciting assignments, and live technical and instructional support. Best of all, at the end of the course, students can order 3D prints of their own unique creations from Shapeways — the world's leading 3D printing marketplace and community — at discounted pricing for educational partners.

"Youth Digital's 3D Printing & Modeling 1 course is ground-breaking, because it introduces the high-tech world of 3D printing to kids," said Justin Richards, Youth Digital's Founder and Director. "This course enables kids to learn cutting-edge technology skills and professional-level software tools. It makes the world of 3D printing accessible, around the globe — even to those that have never seen a 3D printer in action. At the end of the course, students can order prints of their very own 3D creations directly from Shapeways."

"Kids will love it. But what is really important is that we're making the world of 3D printing — what once felt like the stuff of science-fiction — accessible to younger learners," continued Justin Richards. "These are critical technology and engineering skills. The implications for America's competitive edge in technology, STEM education initiatives, design, coding and engineering are significant."

To celebrate, the Youth Digital 3D Printing & Modeling 1 course is available at a 30% discount — until July 31, 2014 — by using Offer Code "Shape30" when purchasing the course at www.YouthDigital.com