Children all over Europe and beyond now have online access to games, quizzes and information about the EU and the different member states, in a new website called ‘Kids’ Corner’ available at http://europa.eu/kids-corner/index_en.htm .
It was launched in English by EU Commission Vice-President Viviane Reding on November 23 and will be available in a further 21 languages from December 21.
Kids’ Corner is made up of three elements. Firstly, there is a ‘games and quizzes’ section where children can have fun and play educational games. Secondly, a section entitled ‘The EU: what’s it all about?’ features a clickable map of Europe and fun facts about each EU country.
The third element is ‘Check out your rights’, a link to the website of the Directorate-General (DG) headed by Commissioner Reding, regarding the rights of the child, incorporating games, videos and information for two age groups.
With the creation of this website the EU is, for the first time, offering children information about the 27-nation bloc and their own rights, specifically geared towards them in a style they understand, appreciate and like.
The site is currently only available in English with the exception of the games, which can be played in the EU’s 22 official languages. By the end of December the complete website will also be available in these languages.
The new Kids’ Corner complements another website run by the Commission entitled ‘Teachers’ Corner’, which presents a selection of the best teaching material about the EU.
Together, the two sites are the core element in DG Communication’s effort to keep young people better informed about the EU.