Publication for the 1st grade of elementary schools

BRNO UP CLOSE

…Discover the city with Nela and the Dragon…

Brno Up Close is a playful workbook for children in the 1st grade of elementary school (ages 7–10) that invites them to discover the city together with their guides, Nela and the Dragon. Through activities and challenges, children learn to perceive their surroundings, think about the needs of the city, and explore ways in which they themselves can contribute to positive changes in public spaces and the community.

The main message of the workbook is that everyone can influence the place where they live, and that even small steps can make a difference. Children learn about basic principles of urban development, map their surroundings, and reflect on what helps them feel better in the city. The workbook also serves as supporting material for participatory budgeting in schools and for developing democratic skills.

The workbook is intended primarily for children, but it can also be used by teachers, parents, and in leisure-time and informal education (e.g. scout groups). The activities can be easily adapted for younger or older children. For teachers, the workbook helps save time when preparing lessons.

The workbook was created by the Participation Department of the Brno City Municipality, with content contributions from Barbora Dvořáková, an expert in locally embedded learning. It is richly illustrated by Tomáš Kučerovský. The use of the workbook is explained in detail in an accompanying methodology available online (in Czech).

The English version was created in response to the international character of Brno and is intended for children for whom English is a more natural language. It also includes a modified cipher game that children can play in the centre of Brno.

Please send feedback on the English version to: gregorova.eva@brno.cz.