“Any kid who doesn’t learn something about Bitcoin is missing out,” says Bitcoin advocate Ben De Waal. De Waal, a dedicated Bitcoin enthusiast since 2010, is proud to introduce his 12-year-old daughter Samantha to the world of Bitcoin. Thanks to her upbringing in a “Bitcoin family,” Sam has become a Bitcoin ambassador and is now affectionately known as The Bitcoin Kid.
Sam’s journey into the world of Bitcoin began when she was just 10 years old. Her father, De Waal, introduced her to children’s books about Bitcoin as a way to spark her curiosity and interest in the digital currency. Two years later, Sam found herself on the grand stage of BTC Prague 2023, delivering a speech about Bitcoin. She even received praise from Peter McCormack, the host of the popular podcast What Bitcoin Did, who called her “the best” speaker at the conference.
But why is it important for kids to learn about Bitcoin? According to Scott Sibley, co-author of the children’s book Goodnight Bitcoin, kids have a natural advantage when it comes to understanding and learning about Bitcoin. Unlike adults, who may have preconceived notions about different forms of currency, kids are open-minded and willing to learn. Sibley believes that introducing kids to Bitcoin early allows them to form their own opinions and beliefs about it.
Graeme Moore, author of B Is for Bitcoin, echoes this sentiment. He believes that kids who grow up with Bitcoin will have more confidence in pursuing it as a legitimate endeavor in the future. For these kids, Bitcoin has always existed, so they assume it will always be a part of their lives. Moore’s book, inspired by Dr. Seuss, introduces kids to key concepts and ideas about Bitcoin through fun and engaging rhymes.
But are these children’s books a form of education or indoctrination? The authors and Bitcoiner parents interviewed for this article emphasize that the goal is to plant the seed early and provide a basic understanding of Bitcoin. They want to create a foundation for kids to explore and engage in conversations about Bitcoin. These books don’t necessarily dive into the technical details of Bitcoin but instead focus on introducing the concept and its potential benefits.
While some argue that introducing Bitcoin to kids is unnecessary, others believe it is essential for children to understand that money isn’t solely determined by the government. Scott Sibley states that kids don’t have the ability to think fiat currency is weird yet, but as they grow older, they will question why people rely on traditional forms of money.
The impact of these children’s books can already be seen. Ben De Waal shares that Sam is confident in talking about Bitcoin to her classmates and answering their questions about it. These books have provided her with a solid foundation of knowledge and understanding, allowing her to educate others about Bitcoin.
Interest in Bitcoin kids’ books tends to peak during bull markets, as reflected in the sales of these books. Parents see the value in introducing their children to Bitcoin during times of rising interest and excitement. It provides an opportunity to discuss and engage in conversations about Bitcoin and its potential impact.
In conclusion, children’s books about Bitcoin serve as an excellent introduction to the world of digital currency for kids. They provide a basic understanding of Bitcoin, its origins, and its potential benefits. As kids grow older, their curiosity and understanding can develop, leading to further exploration and engagement with Bitcoin. While some may view these books as a form of indoctrination, the goal is to simply spark interest and create a foundation for kids to navigate the world of Bitcoin.