Danny J Takeuchi

Danny Takeuchi is the author of Animation for Kids with Scratch Programming, and the founder of the startup, MentorsCloud.com. He interned in HP R&D lab for two summers. Danny is also a collaborator in the Sherlock Holmes & the Internet of Things (IoT) global project sponsored by Columbia University's Digital Storytelling Lab which explores new forms and functions of storytelling. He is part of the team that designs and builds smart storytelling objects, which are plugged into a massive connected crime scene with locations all around the world. The first crime scene will be staged at the Lincoln Center during the 52nd New York Film Festival from September 26th to October 11th. The idea behind his business startup, MentorsCloud.com, first sprouted when a family friend requested Danny to teach his 10-year-old son how to do computer programming. Later that summer, MentorsCloud.com launched its first summer camp with 21 students ranging from 8 to 14 years old. Since then, Danny and his team introduced over 200 kids to programming in schools, libraries, and community centers. Danny first thought about creating an animation book when he couldn't find programming books written for younger students. Many books titled "for kids" contained big words and complicated concepts. He started researching and experimenting ways to teach younger students, and he found that kids as young as eight years old could follow his curriculum. After each learning session, his students gained confidence in programming and wanted to do more. He also found none of the programming book introduced animation techniques and sprite drawing. His book will be the first one to teach kids how to perfect their animation and games. The second half therefore will be great for experienced Scratch programmers. Danny harvested his curriculum and past teaching experience while writing his book, Animation for Kids with Scratch Programming. His book leads with what they loves: stories, animations, and games. A PTA Reflection Art competition state winning Poem is animated here: https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/81197030/.