In line with the motto "Democracy thrives on everyone taking part - even the youngest", around 55 pupils from the five elementary school am See, Dürrering, am Fredenberg, Ostertal and Sonnenberg took part and got to know democracy at first hand. At the heart of the "Children's Council" simulation game, the participants explored questions such as "How does democracy work? What opportunities are there to contribute their own ideas and make decisions?"
In the simulation game, the children took on the role of politicians and dealt with topics that directly affect and interest them. They developed their own ideas and proposals, discussed them in groups and voted on their favorite ideas at the end. They were supported and advised by local politicians Michael Letter (SPD), Astrid Penke (CDU), Marcel Bürger (Bündnis 90/Die Grünen) and Lars Tietjen (Grüne-Die PARTEI).
The aim was to teach the children the basics of democratic processes in a playful way and to show them how they can represent their interests and find solutions together.
The ideas developed included collecting donations for the animal shelter, renovating the school toilets, introducing regulated smoking areas and many more.
Children's council meeting
At the end of the second day, a children's council meeting was held to discuss the topics developed in plenary. The council meeting was moderated by Tobias Bey. The proposals were presented by the children at the lectern - just like in the council meetings of the city of Salzgitter. The children were then able to discuss the proposals and present the advantages and disadvantages of the ideas. There were 40 votes in favor of installing traffic lights on Westfalenstraße. The pupils argued for the safety of all pedestrians.
They also tabled a motion to introduce regulated smoking areas. One of the reasons given for this was the health risk caused by nicotine. Children should be protected from smoke - even at home and in the car. Strong words that did not receive a single dissenting vote. The unanimous vote showed how important the issue is to children.
A total of 12 motions were submitted and discussed. The proposal for new toys for schools could not be pushed through in the Children's Council. Here too, the pupils discussed the issue critically and exchanged arguments.
Ideas are presented to the Council
The ideas developed during these two days will be presented to the Salzgitter City Council at one of its next meetings in order to enable active participation by the children.
At the end, the organizers and the participating children agreed that the "Children's Council" simulation game was a complete success and left a lasting impression on all participants.