Democracy educationDay of German Unity: information suitable for children
Monday demonstrations, the fall of the Wall, the Unification Treaty ... . There was a lot going on in Germany between 1989 and 1990. And then there's the history: how did the division of Germany come about in the first place? When was the Wall built and, more importantly, why was it built at all?
The Internet has many good resources to help your children shed some light on the subject. The following links offer target group-oriented content for children and young people between the ages of six and 14. Many questions about the Day of German Unity are also answered.
Videos
Websites
From children for children
More offers
If you don't want to get lost in the multitude of offerings on the internet, you can watch the animated feature film "Fritzi - Eine Wendewundergeschichte" or the picture book "Hübendrüben" with your children:
- "Fritzi - Eine Wendewundergeschichte" (2019, running time approx. 86 mins, age recommendation: 9, FSK 6). At "Kinderfilmwelt" there is a trailer, the film description and a review.
- "Hübendrüben. Als deine Eltern noch klein und Deutschland noch zwei waren" (by Franziska Gehm and Horst Klein, Klett Kinderbuch, 40 pages, reading age 5 to 9). At kindersache.de there is a short interview with the makers of the book as well as a book description.
Learning from history
The division and reunification of Germany also reminds us that the privileges of democracy cannot be taken for granted. Under the dictatorship of the GDR, the press was censored and freedom of expression (of fear) was not possible either publicly or privately. Lifestyles were influenced by the state and anyone who did not conform was politically suspect and was watched by the Stasi.
Attacks on democracy are increasingly taking place online: Extremist attitudes masquerade as freedom of expression, disinformation corrodes serious reporting. And group-based misanthropy has long since become part of everyday life in the comment columns of social media channels.
This makes it all the more important to sensitize children and young people to the mechanisms that threaten our democracy. And at the same time to show them ways in which they can actively and responsibly live and shape democracy online (and beyond).
Democracy education in childhood
The competence network of the German Children's Fund and Institute for the Situational Approach provides information, practical advice and tips on all aspects of promoting democracy in early childhood and primary education.
klicksafe materials for young people on the topic of democracy
To get young people excited about democracy, they need role models. They also need to get an idea of why democracy is relevant to their lives. For Safer Internet Day 2022, klicksafe has created various materials for young people with this in mind.
We also talked to young people about the topic of democracy. What is the first thing that comes to mind for young people? What opportunities and dangers does the Internet hold for democracy from their point of view? What would they stand up for themselves and take to the streets? Manahil, Jonathan and Lisa tell us in our four short videos.