Research Laboratory for Children

07.12.2024. - 08.12.2024.

By examining two fundamental life processes – photosynthesis and respiration - this series of two themed workshops will encourage thinking about the relationship between man and the rest of nature. Participants will be able to step into the shoes of a researcher and use research equipment in an interactive learning environment to imagine the ways in which our health and survival relate to the existence and health of other organisms. 

The research laboratory for children will host three workshops: ‘How humans breathe’; ‘Where does oxygen come from’ and ‘Why should we care for the environment’. The workshops will involve viewing selected exhibits of the museum’s permanent exhibition under the guidance of a museum educator and practical activities in the interactive learning environment designed by the Latvian fashion duo MAREUNROL’S featuring a 10-metre-wide multilayered tapestry. The participants will study their own way of breathing and learn how oxygen, a chemical element vitally necessary for human life, is produced. The workshops do not overlap content-wise, so we suggest attending both of them. 

The workshops will not only provide knowledge on scientific and ecological issues but also foster creativity and development of practical skills and emotional intelligence necessary for taking good care of yourself and the environment. The activities and equipment is suited for families with children aged 7–11 working together: assisted by the grownups, the children will master the equipment, research, create models and discuss.  

1st workshop "How Humans Breathe"
07.12. 13.00 - 15.00 

During the workshop, participants will hear the story of the iron lung at the permanent exhibition, go on to study their own bodies with the help of a stethoscope and a spirometer and, through building models, learn about the human respiratory system. 

2nd workshop "Where Does Oxygen Come From"
08.12. 11.00 – 13.00

During the workshop, participants will study the origins of oxygen using authentic lab equipment. They will prepare microscopy specimens to examine the structure of plants on a cellular level. The participants will also attend the permanent exhibition to view some of the most ancient versions of the microscope dating from the 17th century onwards. 

Target audience: families with children between ages 7 and 11 
Duration: 2 h 

Type of payment: advance payment by obtaining a ticket on the Mobilly app.
Price per event is EUR 7 (1 adult + 1 child). If an adult attends the workshop with more than one child, additional admission ticket for EUR 2 must be purchased for each child. Number of places is limited. 
Maximum number of participants per event: 15  
Language: Latvian   
Info: nodarbibas@mvm.gov.lv, 26644548