How do you actually plan an experiment, and what do scientists do all day? These questions and many more were explored during a two-day children’s science workshop on April 20 and 27, 2026, in Bonn-Oberkassel. In total, 15 children aged 7 to 12 took part.
The program focused on planning and carrying out their own experiments. A central question was: Which bacteria grow on our hands and on objects we touch every day? Using agar plates, the children collected contact samples from washed, unwashed, and disinfected hands, as well as from everyday items like door handles, hair, chairs, pocket change, and even a toilet brush. They formulated their own hypotheses and then tested whether their expectations matched the results – and if not, explored possible reasons for any discrepancies.
Another experiment tackled the question: What exactly is DNA, and how can we make it visible? During a hands-on DNA extraction from bananas, the children tried the process themselves and asked curious questions, such as whether we’re “always eating DNA” when we eat bananas.
For many, the highlight was pipetting colorful liquids – because proper handling of laboratory equipment is an essential part of research, and the children practiced it with great enthusiasm.
The workshop was organized by Dr. Alexandra Krämer and provided the children with the opportunity to experience science in a playful, hands-on manner.
Contact
Dr. Alexandra Krämer
Cluster Coordination Office ImmunoSensation3
Email: alexandra.kraemer@uni-bonn.de
Phone: +49 228 287 51182
