Launching water rockets, starting turbines and the secret behind chemical elephant trunks - these are just a few of the experiments that were offered during the last holiday programme at the DHPS Child & Youth Centre from 2 - 6 July 2018. Under the motto of “Fun while learning and experimenting”, 45 learners explored quite everyday items, and learned about their origins and functions. Everything was included: sugar crystals, vehicle drive systems and questions about how earthworms breathe and the properties of water and light.
Empty cans, wires, tubes, broken speakers and old bicycle chains - things that would normally end up in the garbage - were recycled at the CYC and have now become part of the learners' lives as robots and playmates.

The highlight in the middle of the week was an excursion to the "H.E.S.S. Experiment” and we drove all the way to Farm Goellschau, two hours from Windhoek, where we gained an insight into the interesting work with stereoscopes and all our questions around the universe were answered. Afterwards we had the opportunity to observe the 600 tonne and 40 meter high stereoscope at close range and experience the robot that extends and retracts the camera, live in action. After all these adventurous and new impressions, we had a braai and played at the hospitable farm premises, before returning to Windhoek again.

The week was concluded with the element of fire: The children could admire growing burnt sand snakes and flames of different colours. After marshmallows were roasted over a small fire, this fire was effectively extinguished with specially designed fire extinguishers.
In the afternoon, everyone could test their skills on a marshmallow gun and a "hot wire”, or prove their skills at the soccer table and basketball hoop, relax on the couch or lawn area or read a book from the library.

We thank all participants and are already looking forward to the next holiday programme in August, which will take place from 28/08 - 04/09/2018 and will revolve all around handicrafts.