Games and language: Discover the knowledge workshop for children!

Games and language: Discover the knowledge workshop for children!

The knowledge workshop in Bielefeld will present an exciting family offer on June 7th under the motto “tinkering in the afternoon”. This event is aimed at children aged 4 to 10 and offers a comprehensive journey of discovery into the areas of language and mathematics. The program begins at 1 p.m. and can be attended free of charge and without prior registration until 5 p.m. The focus is particularly on the diversity of the language and interactive mathematics stations.

Researchers from the Collaborative Research Center “Linguistic Creativity in Communication” at Bielefeld University will design the linguistic part of the event. Here, the youngest visitors can discover funny word games in various hands-on stations and playfully explore everyday questions. For older children aged 5 and over, Dr. Gabrijela Kehler-Poljak from the “Mitmach Museum Mathe” in Herford explains mathematical concepts in more detail. Under the motto “Leo the Lion”, children can embark on a journey of discovery into the world of mirrors and symmetry.

Focus on language and mathematics support

The event in the Wissenwerkstadt underlines the importance of promoting language and mathematics. Elementary school children often face the challenge of communicating complex mathematical concepts. Technical and educational language skills are often developed differently. Many mathematical formulations, such as “decomposing a number,” are not self-explanatory and differ significantly from everyday language. The aim of teaching mathematics is to help children learn specific expressions.

Language education plays a central role here by offering all children incentives for further linguistic and mathematical development. Language support is often aimed at specific groups, such as newly immigrated children or those with language difficulties. Despite their different objectives, these two areas are closely linked and cannot always be clearly separated.

Relevance of language support

In the context of early childhood education, such as that offered in daycare centers and crèches, language support plays an essential role. The educational mission of these institutions includes not only the development of the German language, but also the promotion of communication and interaction skills. Particularly disadvantaged children, for example from socially disadvantaged backgrounds, benefit significantly from individual language support.

The goals of language development are broad and include expanding vocabulary as well as improving speaking ability and grammatical skills. They can also indirectly promote concentration, fine motor skills and social skills. Methods such as picture book reflections, story circles and songs are often used to create a stimulating place for learning.

The knowledge workshop not only offers free events, but also exhibitions and activities that are specifically tailored to the needs and interests of children. These include the creative “sandbox” space for creating your own worlds as well as the play area with giant building blocks. Children up to 10 years of age are only allowed to take part in these activities when accompanied by an adult.

Further information about the event can be found on the Knowledge workshop website. Such initiatives are of great importance for the linguistic and mathematical support of children and contribute to equal opportunities and integration in society.