For BIG Zrenjanin and BIG Novi Sad, we designed and delivered the Back to School activation “Fun Before the School Bell”, bringing together play, learning, creativity and socialising just before the start of the new school year.
The activation took place on 29 and 30 August and welcomed a large number of schoolchildren and their families over the course of two days. Visitors had the opportunity to take part in a variety of educational and entertaining activities designed to introduce children to new knowledge through play, hands-on activities and creative expression.
The aim of the activation was to provide children with a space where they could have fun and spend time together, while also gaining useful knowledge and skills that would help them start the new school year feeling more prepared and confident.
Learning Through Play and Creativity
The programme included a variety of activities tailored to school-age children. Young visitors took part in a knowledge quiz where, through engaging questions, they had the chance to demonstrate what they already knew, learn something new and enjoy a friendly competitive atmosphere.
During the creative part of the programme, children made their own bookmarks. Using different materials, colours and plenty of imagination, they created original bookmarks that they could take home and use throughout the new school year.
A good manners workshop was also organised, giving children an opportunity to learn about polite behaviour, respect for others and the importance of kind and thoughtful communication. Through conversation and examples from everyday life, they were reminded of how small words and simple gestures can contribute to better relationships with their peers, teachers and family members.
Useful Tips for Easier and More Effective Learning
A special part of the programme was the “How to Study Better” workshop, during which children had the opportunity to talk with a psychologist about the importance of developing good habits.
The beginning of a new school year often brings changes to daily routines, new responsibilities and different challenges, which is why it is important for children to find a learning approach that works best for them. During the workshop, they discussed time management, concentration, regular study habits and the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between school responsibilities, rest and free time.
The children were also introduced to new methods that can help them remember information more easily, understand and absorb learning material more effectively, and improve the way they study. In an accessible and age-appropriate way, they were encouraged to reflect on their own habits and to see learning not only as an obligation, but also as an opportunity to discover new interests and develop greater independence.
Discovering the World of Engineering Through Play and Hands-On Activities
The programme also featured Young Engineers @youngengineers.ns, who organised an educational workshop and introduced children to the world of engineering.
Through play, hands-on activities and creative problem-solving, children had the opportunity to explore, ask questions and develop their own solutions. This approach encouraged curiosity, logical thinking and creativity, showing them that technical and scientific topics can be highly engaging when explored through direct experience
Creative Games and Entertainment for Children
To make the time between workshops even more enjoyable, we prepared a dedicated area featuring creative Jumbo and brain games. While waiting for their turn to join one of the activities, children could play, spend time together and take on a variety of fun challenges.
The games were designed to encourage concentration, logical thinking, creativity and cooperation, while above all providing children with a relaxed environment for play and socialising with their peers.
Memories from the Back to School Zone
The cheerful Back to School zone also featured a themed photo area. The playful school-inspired setting became a popular spot for taking photographs and creating family memories ahead of the return to the classroom. Every segment of the activation was designed to provide both children and parents with an enjoyable shared experience. Educational workshops, the quiz, creative activities, games and the photo area were brought together into one engaging programme that was entertaining, useful and inspiring at the same time.
Starting the School Year with Knowledge and a Smile
Through the “Fun Before the School Bell” activation, we showed that preparing for a new school year can also be fun and inspiring. The large number of schoolchildren who participated in the programme demonstrated that children are eager to gain new knowledge when learning and educational content are combined with play, hands-on activities and social interaction.
Over the course of two days, BIG Zrenjanin and BIG Novi Sad were transformed into lively Back to School zones filled with children’s curiosity, creativity and smiles. The children went home with their handmade bookmarks, new knowledge, useful study tips and wonderful memories, ready to begin the new school year with greater confidence and motivation.
