Chemistry pros of tomorrow: laboratory discovery course for first and second graders with volcanic eruption and colorful black
On 20 November 2025, IMCD Germany celebrated World Children's Day for the third year in a row with a special educational event: a laboratory taster course for the pupils of the cat class at GGS Balthasarstraße. The goal was to introduce first and second grade children to the fascinating world of chemistry and show them how it appears in everyday life. More than 20 children joined us in the laboratory. Together with their class teacher, accompanying adults, our experts, and dedicated helpers, the children enjoyed a program full of exciting insights into molecules and chemical reactions.
The school is located just a 15-minute walk from our laboratory. On this typical November day, the pharmaceutical lab, situated on the scenic banks of the Rhine, opened its doors to welcome the pupils for various guided experiments led by our laboratory experts.
Wearing lab coats and safety goggles, the young scientists began their adventure at 9:30 a.m. The experiments ranged from creating flavored lemonade to exploring the theory of colors. Our experts were fully involved, ensuring a hands-on and engaging experience:
All experiments at a glance:
- Anita Vasilevska – Experiment 1: Making an effervescent tablet
- Sandra Hackbarth – Experiment 2: The colorful black
- Kira Odendahl – Experiment 3: Making lemonade with 3 different flavors
- Nora Schiemann, Emilie Frankenberger – Experiment 4: What makes creme so creamy?
After enjoying a vitamin-rich snack from the fruit basket, the event continued until 11:30 a.m. In a place where international experts usually exchange knowledge, it was now the turn of the young scientists. Full of curiosity and excitement, the children explored microscopes, test tubes, and chemical reactions. At the end of the day, each child received a certificate to celebrate their successful participation in the laboratory taster course.
About World Children's Day
Introduced by the United Nations, World Children's Day promotes and honors the rights of children worldwide. It marks the adoption of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child on 20 November 1989.
• It is a reminder of the importance of protecting the well-being and rights of children.
• It is also an opportunity to raise awareness of children's needs and challenges and to work toward a better future for them.
We sincerely thank all participants, as well as our dedicated experts and volunteers, for making this event a memorable experience for everyone.