CryptoKids: Teaching Blockchain and Cardano to Children

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Arsema Hailemelekot mulugeta

[GENERAL] Are you delivering this project as an individual or as an entity (whether formally incorporated or not)

Individual

[GENERAL] Please specify how many months you expect your project to last (from 2-12 months)

12

[GENERAL] Please indicate if your proposal has been auto-translated into English from another language

No

[GENERAL] Summarize your solution to the problem (200-character limit including spaces)

We will develop an interactive platform with blockchain-based educational tools, games, and coding lessons that teach children about Cardano, blockchain technology, and financial literacy.

[GENERAL] Does your project have any dependencies on other organizations, technical or otherwise?

No

[GENERAL] If YES, please describe what the dependency is and why you believe it is essential for your project’s delivery. If NO, please write “No dependencies.”

All aspects of the project, including content creation, design, and app development, will be managed internally by our team to ensure smooth and timely delivery.

[GENERAL] Will your project’s output/s be fully open source?

Yes

[GENERAL] Please provide here more information on the open source status of your project outputs

We intend for the project outputs to be fully open-source. Throughout the entire lifecycle of the project, all code and resources will be accessible to the public via an open-source repository on platforms like GitHub. We believe that by making our outputs open-source, we will encourage community collaboration, foster innovation, and allow other universities and organizations to benefit from the standardized framework and platform we create.

The project will be licensed under the MIT License, ensuring that others can freely use, modify, and distribute our software. We have chosen this license to promote transparency and community-driven improvements while allowing broad access and use of the platform for educational purposes.

All key elements, including the digital platform’s core codebase, APIs, and resources for establishing and managing clubs, will be open-source. The only elements not open-source will be user-specific data, which will remain private and protected according to the platform's privacy policy and relevant data regulations.

Our commitment to open-source ensures that the project will be community-driven, extensible, and aligned with Cardano’s ethos of decentralization and openness.

[METADATA] Horizons

Education

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Problem Perception

The CryptoKids project addresses the lack of early education on blockchain, cryptocurrency, and financial literacy among children. As blockchain technology grows in significance, there is a widening knowledge gap in understanding these complex subjects, especially for younger audiences. Current educational systems do not adequately cover blockchain or crypto-related concepts, leaving children ill-prepared for the future financial landscape.

Approach

We believe that education on topics like blockchain and cryptocurrency should start at an early age to foster long-term understanding and adoption. However, teaching these subjects to children requires a creative and engaging approach. By combining storytelling, interactive puzzles, and a digital app, CryptoKids makes learning about Cardano and blockchain technology fun and accessible.

Target Engagement:

• Children: The primary audience of the CryptoKids project, who will be introduced to foundational concepts of Cardano, blockchain, and financial literacy in an age-appropriate manner.
• Parents and Educators: Secondary users, who will use CryptoKids as a teaching tool to guide children through these new concepts, building a bridge between formal education and emerging technologies.
• Cardano Community: The Cardano ecosystem will benefit from early user engagement, contributing to the long-term growth and adoption of the blockchain.

Demonstrating and Proving Impact

1. Educational Outcomes: By introducing children to blockchain and cryptocurrency concepts at a young age, CryptoKids will foster early understanding of Cardano’s ecosystem. This long-term investment in education will prepare the next generation to engage meaningfully with decentralized technologies, contributing to the overall adoption of blockchain.
2. Interactive Learning: Our solution includes a multi-faceted approach to learning:

• Illustrated Storybook: A book designed to teach key concepts through storytelling, using characters and narrative to explain how blockchain and Cardano work in a simplified manner.
• Educational Puzzle: An engaging puzzle that demonstrates how blockchain works and the mechanics of transactions, helping children understand the technology in a tangible way.
• Companion App: A digital app that offers interactive games, quizzes, and activities related to Cardano and blockchain, reinforcing lessons learned from the book and puzzle.

1. User Testing & Feedback: We will continuously test and gather feedback from children, parents, and educators, refining the materials to ensure they are engaging, informative, and easy to use. This iterative development process will allow us to adapt based on real-world educational needs.

Unique Solution

What makes CryptoKids stand out is the blend of physical and digital tools designed specifically to teach children about blockchain, cryptocurrency, and Cardano. This multi-pronged approach ensures that learning is fun, accessible, and impactful. The storybook introduces concepts in an engaging narrative format, the puzzle offers hands-on interaction, and the app provides a platform for continuous learning. This combination of educational methods ensures comprehensive engagement and retention.

Who Benefits

• Children: Gain early exposure to complex financial and technological concepts that will shape the future of finance and digital economies.
• Parents and Educators: Gain a valuable resource to teach children about blockchain in a simple and fun manner.
• Cardano Ecosystem: Benefits from the early adoption and understanding of Cardano's blockchain and cryptocurrency ecosystem by the next generation.

Why this is Important to Cardano

The CryptoKids project is important to Cardano because it prepares the future generation for engaging with blockchain technology, specifically Cardano. Educating children at an early age on the benefits of decentralized finance, smart contracts, and the importance of security aligns with Cardano’s mission of making blockchain technology more accessible and widely adopted. By nurturing young minds, CryptoKids builds the foundation for a more knowledgeable and engaged community within Cardano's ecosystem.

[IMPACT] Please define the positive impact your project will have on the wider Cardano community

Value to the Cardano Community

CryptoKids will introduce Cardano and blockchain concepts to a younger audience, helping build early awareness and understanding of decentralized technologies. By providing a fun and accessible way to learn, CryptoKids will help shape future generations of users, developers, and advocates for Cardano. This aligns with Cardano’s mission of fostering a decentralized and financially inclusive ecosystem, creating long-term adoption potential.

Measuring Impact

We will track the success of CryptoKids through both quantitative and qualitative metrics:

• Sales and Distribution: Number of books and puzzles sold, app downloads, and user registrations and cardano payment.
• Engagement Data: App usage statistics, including time spent on educational games and quizzes, and user completion rates of interactive lessons.
• Feedback Surveys: Collecting feedback from parents, educators, and children to assess how well the material is received, understood, and enjoyed.
• Educational Partnerships: Tracking the number of partnerships with schools and educational organizations that adopt CryptoKids for blockchain education.

Sharing Outputs and Opportunities

We will actively share the project’s outputs with the Cardano community and beyond through:

• Open Source App: Making the codebase for the CryptoKids app open-source so that developers can contribute and improve the platform.
• Educational Outreach: Partnering with schools, libraries, and educational platforms to promote the use of CryptoKids as a learning tool.
• Community Events & Workshops: Hosting virtual workshops and community events to demonstrate the use of CryptoKids and engage families, schools, and blockchain enthusiasts.
• Social Media & Marketing Campaigns: Actively promoting CryptoKids across social media and the Cardano community channels to reach a broad audience and encourage widespread use of the educational materials.

This project will foster deeper connections between the blockchain community and future generations, securing Cardano’s long-term growth and adoption.

[CAPABILITY & FEASIBILITY] What is your capability to deliver your project with high levels of trust and accountability? How do you intend to validate if your approach is feasible?

Our team is uniquely qualified to deliver the CryptoKids project, combining expertise in blockchain technology, educational content creation, and digital product development. We have experience in managing similar projects, both in the education sector and within blockchain ecosystems, which gives us the skills and insights needed to bring this initiative to life

Team Capabilities

1. Blockchain Expertise: Our team includes blockchain developers who have experience working with Cardano and other blockchain platforms. This technical knowledge is essential for building the secure, interactive companion app for CryptoKids, as well as integrating blockchain concepts into the educational material in a way that is accessible to children.

1. Educational Background: We have professionals with backgrounds in education and child development, who understand how to present complex topics like blockchain, cryptocurrency, and financial literacy in a simplified and engaging way for young learners.

1. Content Creation and Design: Our team includes illustrators, writers, and app developers who will ensure that the educational content and digital app are visually appealing, interactive, and easy to use for both children and parents.

Feasibility Validation:

• Proven Experience: We have successfully managed and delivered similar educational and blockchain projects in the past. Our existing portfolio includes both digital and physical products aimed at simplifying complex topics for diverse audiences, ensuring we have a proven track record in project delivery.

• Prototype & Testing: We will begin with a prototype of the children's book and app, followed by testing with target users (children, parents, and educators). This phased approach will allow us to refine the materials based on feedback and ensure the product meets educational and usability standards before full-scale production.

• Partnerships: We are already in discussions with educators and schools who are eager to integrate blockchain learning into their curriculums, which ensures the demand for our educational materials and increases the chances of adoption.

Trust and Accountability

To ensure transparency and responsible fund management

• Milestones and Reporting: We will provide regular updates to the Cardano community and Project Catalyst, reporting progress on each milestone. This includes sharing our prototype, feedback received from users, and details on the number of products delivered.
• Budget Tracking: We will use detailed financial tracking tools to ensure that all funds are allocated as outlined in our budget plan. Regular audits and reports will be made available to Project Catalyst and backers.
• Open Collaboration: We will open-source the code for the CryptoKids app, inviting community developers to contribute and ensuring that our technical solution remains transparent and accountable.

Our experience, combined with a clear development roadmap, ensures that we are well-equipped to deliver CryptoKids as a valuable educational resource for the Cardano ecosystem.

[PROJECT MILESTONES] What are the key milestones you need to achieve in order to complete your project successfully?

Blockchain Architecture Design and Prototype Development (Month 1-2)

• Objective: Design the architecture of the CryptoKids app and implement blockchain-based wallet functions using Cardano.
• Deliverables:
• Design a secure, child-friendly blockchain wallet interface that integrates Cardano's native tokens (ADA) for use in educational settings.
• Develop a prototype of the wallet with basic sending, receiving, and transaction tracking functions.

Development of Interactive Blockchain Features (Month 3-4)

• Objective: Develop and integrate interactive blockchain lessons into the app, teaching kids how to manage tokens safely.
• Deliverables:
• Create smart contract templates for the wallet that are child-friendly and explain how transactions work in the app.
• Include educational prompts that teach children about blockchain concepts while performing safe, simulated transactions.
• Acceptance Criteria: A fully functional blockchain-based wallet with integrated educational content, with simulations for learning.

Testing Blockchain Integration and Security (Month 5-6)

• Objective: Perform rigorous security and usability tests for the blockchain integration.
• Deliverables:
• Conduct security audits on the app’s blockchain components to ensure child safety, data privacy, and transaction integrity.
• Perform beta tests of the wallet and educational blockchain features with selected user groups.
• Acceptance Criteria: The app passes security testing, and feedback from beta tests is integrated for final refinements.

 Open Source Release and Community Engagement (Month 7-9)

• Objective: Release the project as open source and engage the Cardano community for contributions and feedback.
• Deliverables:
• Publish the codebase for the CryptoKids wallet on GitHub under an open-source license, encouraging other developers to contribute.
• Conduct workshops or community sessions to help developers build on or adapt the platform for other educational purposes.
• Acceptance Criteria: Successful open-source release and initial community engagement.

Full Platform Launch and Post-Launch Improvements (Month 10-12)

• Objective: Finalize and launch the CryptoKids app, including blockchain wallet functionality and educational components.
• Deliverables:
• Full public release of the app on the iOS and Android app stores.
• Ongoing post-launch support for app improvements, blockchain scalability, and community feedback.
• Acceptance Criteria: Successful public launch of the app, with continuous user onboarding and active community development.

[RESOURCES] Who is in the project team and what are their roles?

[RESOURCES] Project Team and Their Roles:

Our CryptoKids project team brings together a diverse group of professionals skilled in blockchain development, educational content creation, and project management. Each team member plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of the project.

1. Arsema Hailemelekot Mulugeta - Content Development Lead

• Role: Arsema is responsible for developing the storylines, educational content, and puzzle materials that will introduce children to blockchain concepts in a fun and engaging way.
• Responsibilities: Collaborating with illustrators and writers to create the book and puzzle series, ensuring educational accuracy, and aligning content with child-friendly learning principles.

1. Blockchain Development Team (To Be Recruited)

• Skills Required: Proficiency in Cardano blockchain development, smart contract implementation, and secure app development.
• Responsibilities: Building the blockchain-based companion app, integrating secure transaction features, token-based rewards, and ensuring that the app interacts smoothly with Cardano’s blockchain for real-time engagement.

1. Educational Consultant (To Be Recruited)

• Skills Required: Expertise in child education and curriculum development, with a focus on simplifying complex topics like financial literacy and blockchain for young learners.
• Responsibilities: Consulting on how to present blockchain and financial concepts in a way that is both engaging and developmentally appropriate for children.

1. UI/UX Designer

• Role: The UI/UX designer will ensure the CryptoKids app is intuitive, visually appealing, and easy for both children and parents to use.
• Responsibilities: Designing user interfaces for the app that allow seamless interaction with blockchain features, developing child-friendly navigation, and working closely with the development team to ensure a smooth user experience.

Recruitment Plans:

We are actively seeking skilled blockchain developers and educational consultants to join the CryptoKids team. Our priority is to recruit individuals who have experience with blockchain technology, especially within the Cardano ecosystem, and professionals with expertise in education and child development.

We have engaged with several community groups on platforms like Telegram and Discord, where we have initiated discussions with potential collaborators. This ensures that when funding is approved, we will be ready to recruit and onboard the necessary team members without delay.

The entire team will adhere to strict project management protocols, ensuring transparency, timely delivery, and proper fund allocation, while maintaining open communication with the Cardano Catalyst community.

[BUDGET & COSTS] Please provide a cost breakdown of the proposed work and resources

Our budget for the CryptoKids project is carefully structured to ensure optimal use of resources, enabling us to deliver the educational materials and companion app as efficiently as possible. The total funding requested is 175,000 ADA.

1. Content Creation (30,000 ADA)

• Writers & Illustrators: Creation of the storybook, puzzles, and illustrations.
• Cost: 20,000 ADA
• Educational Consultants: Ensuring the content aligns with learning standards and is developmentally appropriate for children.
• Cost: 10,000 ADA

2. Blockchain Development & App Creation (70,000 ADA)

• Blockchain Developers: Building and integrating the CryptoKids companion app with Cardano’s blockchain.
• Cost: 50,000 ADA
• Smart Contract Development: Setting up smart contracts for user interaction and app functionalities.
• Cost: 10,000 ADA
• UI/UX Design: Ensuring a child-friendly and parent-accessible interface.
• Cost: 10,000 ADA

3. Testing & Prototyping (15,000 ADA)

• Prototype Creation: Developing a prototype for the book, puzzle, and app for feedback testing.
• Cost: 5,000 ADA
• User Testing: Conducting testing with children, parents, and educators to refine the materials and app.
• Cost: 10,000 ADA

4. Marketing & Community Engagement (25,000 ADA)

• Marketing Campaign: Reaching out to schools, parents, and crypto communities to promote CryptoKids.
• Cost: 15,000 ADA
• Community Engagement & Feedback: Engaging the Cardano community for feedback and beta testing.
• Cost: 10,000 ADA

5. Legal, Accounting, & Compliance (10,000 ADA)

• Legal Compliance: Ensuring compliance with child education standards, privacy laws (GDPR), and blockchain integration.
• Cost: 5,000 ADA
• Accounting & Financial Reporting: Proper management and reporting of project funds.
• Cost: 5,000 ADA

6. Project Management & Oversight (20,000 ADA)

• Project Leader Salary: Oversight of all project activities, including coordinating between developers, content creators, and external partners.
• Cost: 15,000 ADA
• Milestone Tracking & Reporting: Regular updates to the Catalyst community, ensuring transparency and progress reporting.
• Cost: 5,000 ADA

7. Public Relations & Distribution (5,000 ADA)

• App Distribution: Distributing the CryptoKids app across app stores and digital platforms.
• Cost: 3,000 ADA
• Public Relations: Building relationships with schools, educators, and media to promote the educational impact of CryptoKids.
• Cost: 2,000 ADA

Contingency Plan & Alternative Funding

In case of unforeseen challenges or cost overruns, we have earmarked 5% of the budget for contingencies. We are also in talks with educational institutions and private blockchain enthusiasts to provide additional funding if necessary.

By carefully allocating resources to content creation, technical development, and community engagement, we ensure that the CryptoKids project provides long-term value for the Cardano ecosystem while remaining within the requested budget.

[VALUE FOR MONEY] How does the cost of the project represent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem?

The CryptoKids project represents excellent value for money within the Cardano ecosystem by focusing on educating the next generation about blockchain technology, cryptocurrency, and Cardano's unique offerings. Here's how we ensure the project provides value:

• Educational Impact: By creating a product that introduces children to blockchain and financial literacy at an early age, we help lay the foundation for widespread future adoption of Cardano. This early exposure ensures that the younger generation grows up with a strong understanding of Cardano's technology and values, securing long-term ecosystem growth.

• Efficient Resource Allocation:
• Our cost breakdown ensures that funds are primarily directed towards content creation and blockchain development. These are the core pillars of the project, ensuring that the educational content is both high-quality and integrated with Cardano’s blockchain infrastructure.
• We have minimized costs on non-essential elements like PR and legal fees, prioritizing development, testing, and educational value creation.

• Proportional to Industry Standards:
• The requested budget for blockchain development, app creation, and content design is aligned with industry standards for freelance developers, educational consultants, and content creators. For example, blockchain developers with Cardano expertise typically charge between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on location and experience. Our budget reflects competitive yet fair market rates, ensuring we attract top talent while remaining within reasonable financial limits.
• Similarly, the marketing and outreach allocation reflects typical rates for engaging schools, educators, and parents, ensuring we maximize awareness with a cost-effective strategy.

1. Open-Source Contributions: By making the CryptoKids app open-source, we provide further value to the Cardano community, allowing other developers to contribute, expand, and adapt the technology. This approach not only benefits our project but also strengthens the Cardano ecosystem as a whole by fostering collaboration and innovation.
2. Long-Term Benefits: The project's educational focus ensures that the value it brings will continue to pay dividends over time. As children learn about Cardano and grow into blockchain developers, investors, or users, the ecosystem will benefit from a more knowledgeable and engaged community.
3. Scalable & Sustainable: The development of CryptoKids is designed to be scalable. Once the core product (book, puzzle, and app) is developed, it can easily be expanded with additional educational modules or localized for different markets. This scalability ensures that our initial investment continues to provide value as the project grows and reaches new audiences.

In summary, the CryptoKids project offers strong value for money by combining educational impact, scalable development, and open-source contributions. Our budget is carefully aligned with industry standards, ensuring that each ADA spent delivers tangible benefits to the Cardano ecosystem.