MINTmachtag – Discover, explore, be free!

At various stations and a special exhibition, the little researchers experimentally explored language and art as an expression of freedom. The children from kindergartens and primary schools in the region needed a lot of tact, perseverance and strength to try out old hand and grain mills, to experiment with water and air or to build sustainably with clay.

Researched and experimented with: Prof. Dr. Winfried Speitkamp, State Secretary in the Thuringian Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, Dr. Sven Günther, Chairman of the Foundation for Technology, Innovation and Research Thuringia (STIFT), and Juliane Röhner, Team Leader “Networks and Advice” at the Children’s Research Foundation.

The central event of the MINTmachtage in Thuringia took place this year in Veßra Monastery in Henneberg. With the nationwide hands-on day, the Kinder forschen foundation wants to draw attention to the importance of good early education in the fields of mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, technology (STEM) and sustainable development. The MINTmachtage is a nationwide campaign organized by the Kinder forschen foundation. On June 18, 2023 and in the weeks before and after, children all over Germany will go on a fantastic journey of discovery and exploration. The motto: “Discover, research, be free!”. The MINTmachtage 2024 will focus on the question of how mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology help us to live free and self-determined lives. The children will take a closer look at topics such as inclusion, diversity, responsibility and sustainability from the perspective of freedom.

Under the motto “Discover, Research, Be Free!”, the children go on a journey of discovery and approach the various aspects of freedom. They first look at themselves and find out when and where they feel free. Bit by bit, they broaden their view, look at their counterpart, the group in the daycare center or elementary school and finally the society in which they live. What happens when girls and boys can move freely in daycare or school, without any rules? What does my freedom do to someone else’s freedom? What significance does the Basic Law have for our coexistence and why are children’s rights so important? The anniversary of the 75th anniversary of fundamental rights on May 23, 2024 will receive special attention as part of the MINTmachtage.