In Nice, children learn about Europe while having fun

Wednesday afternoons feel like a trip to the Europe Direct Nice Côte d'Azur center on Rue Paganini in Nice. For five weeks, children are invited to explore the continent in a different way, thanks to the "Our Little Stars" program, designed especially for 8-12 year olds. Every Wednesday, from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., a free thematic workshop is organized. This Wednesday is an introduction to Italian. The workshop begins with a presentation of the country. Francesca introduces the little ones to the Italian republic, discusses Easter traditions and teaches some basic language skills. The toddlers participate enthusiastically: "Buongiorno!" , "Come stai?" , "Per favore" .

Next, a puzzle of the regions begins. Each one must be placed on a map. The high fives ("high fives" in Italian) burst forth, along with laughter. Eight-year-old Maram is already dreaming of a vacation: "I want to visit the Marche region. Mathilde showed us some magnificent beaches."

The second activity is mouth-watering. Each region must be associated with its culinary heritage. Mozzarella comes from Campania, cannolis from Sicily, and so on. Lina sums it up with a smile: " Italians invented pizza, that's awesome."

And then, the Vatican had to be explained. "It's a state within a city that's the capital of another country," Mathilde tries. Foreheads furrow. Despite everything, Jad, 9, is won over: "When I grow up, I'll live in Italy. There are beautiful monuments and good food."

Three more Wednesdays

This Wednesday, June 4, children will sing along with a singing teacher who will teach them the Ode to Joy , the European anthem. On Wednesday, June 11, board games will be in the spotlight. For the final workshop, on June 18, children will dive into the world of books and comics.

Registration is mandatory via a form found on the center's website europedirect.nicecotedazur.org.