Learning through play

Playing, singing, having fun and learning a language at the same time – that is the basic concept of KIKUS (Kinder in Kulturen und Sprachen – Children in Cultures and Languages). This method was developed by Dr. Edgardis Garlin, linguist and board member of ZKM, in response to the specific requirements of early language development for children three years and older. This method focuses on the children’s emotional and experience patterns as a central priority at all times: topics such as family, clothes or food are made the objects of playful interaction with the language to be learned. Vocabulary, grammar and linguistic-social patterns of action are taught and practiced in a manner appropriate for children. In addition, attention to the child’s first language within the family is encouraged through guided parent-children work. Respect for the children’s language of origin strengthens their self-confidence and supports their multilingualism.

For systematic language development of the children in small groups, the ZKM course instructors conduct nationwide German classes based on the KIKUS method in child daycare centers und elementary schools. Weekly course units for up to eight children are conducted throughout the school year. The courses are accompanied by up to two educational specialists of the facility who simultaneously receive further qualified that way. After all, the goal is to enable the facilities to continue their German classes on their own after the initial instruction. This cooperation between course instructors, educational facility and educational specialists aims at giving as many children as possible the opportunity to profit from the method.

The language development concept was first realized in 1998 and is now implemented nationwide in a vast number of child daycare centers; more than 20,000 have already profited from KIKUS. Thanks to the long-term cooperation between ZKM and the Siemens Stiftung the number of children to profit from early language development will continue to grow steadily.