A daycare center is usually the first time that children experience how a community of people beyond their family or circle of friends is organized and what rights individual members have. What are children allowed to decide for themselves? What is decided by the adults? What is negotiated between young and old? Based on everyday questions, children gain initial experience of democracy, even though educators may not always be aware of this. When it comes to participation, many daycare centers still have room for improvement. The “mitgemacht - join in!” participation workshop supports daycare center teams in developing a vivid participation culture. In continuing education trainings, educators can expand their knowledge and methods skills. Entire teams can benefit from the support and supervision provided by experts. The joint model project of the Robert Bosch Stiftung and Diskurs e.V. encompasses 20 daycare centers in a two-year pilot phase.
Björn Hänssler
