A campus full of families and children running around. It was clear on Sunday, October 6th, that Campus Woudestein had different visitors than usual. During the national Weekend of Science, after a successful first participation in 2023, our university was once again open to children aged 8 to 14. Through workshops on topics such as programming, fake news, and AI, children had the chance to explore science. With over 1,200 visitors, this edition was another great success for Erasmus University Rotterdam.
To grill scientists with questions
In the Polak Building, children and parents sat on the steps wearing special headphones. Host Geert Maarse, along with the children, interviewed scientists. For example, they grilled criminologist Robby Roks with questions. It was fun not only for the curious kids but clearly enjoyable for the scientists as well!
In the Sports Building, the children had a chance to burn off some energy. René Kruithof shared, "Last year, I was here as a participant. I expressed interest in organizing a session through Erasmus Sport this year. Today, the kids are learning how sports can make you happy." René first explained this to the participating children, followed by a volleyball clinic. The parents in the stands had a role too: they had to cheer on the children, allowing the kids to experience how encouragement affects their happiness.
Meanwhile, a very different kind of activity was taking place in the Erasmus Foodlab. During this workshop, children engaged in sustainable cooking and learned how science plays a role in it. The pride was evident on the children's faces as they presented their creations. Not to mention, the parents and Foodlab supervisors looked equally proud.
Early Introduction to Science
A total of 26 different workshops were offered by the Science Hub, Synclab, Movez Lab, CLI, ESSB, EMC, ESL, EUC, IDEA Centre, Sustainability Hub, and Erasmus Sports. In total, 2,110 workshop spots were available for children.
The goal? To inspire children to explore and understand the world around them. During the Weekend of Science, we showcase how science permeates every aspect of our daily lives. An early introduction to science gives children the opportunity to nurture their natural curiosity, strengthen cognitive skills, and build confidence, all while gaining a better understanding of the world around them.
In seven rounds, children could collect stamps at the workshops of their choice. By doing so, they could earn their Erasmus certificate and pose for a photo with Erasmus.
- More information
About the Weekend of Science
The Weekend of Science is an initiative by the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science. The event is organized annually at various locations across the Netherlands to provide people of all ages, from young to old, with accessible insights into the world of science and technology.- Related content
