SIBF turned into fun-filled Squid Game for early learners

With six interactive rooms, this mini-adventure challenged kids to clear levels that tested their skills in early reading, writing, problem-solving, and creativity. Each task was designed to be age-appropriate and encouraged teamwork and critical thinking.

“This is our very own Squid Game for kids, but here, everyone wins!” quipped Karim Elanani, one of instructors conducting the session that had six clear levels – Alphabet Pathway, Start the Engine of Time, The Balance of Time and Wisdom, The Discovery of Adventures of Colours, The Math challenge that would lead participants to the final level called Escaping the Maze.  “It’s all about creating a safe, fun space where children can learn, experiment, and discover their potential.”
The journey began with a race against time to sequence alphabets in under a minute, followed by a group effort to align the wheels on a car. Next, kids balanced books on a weighing scale while answering questions before experimenting with mixing primary colours to create secondary hues and solving simple maths problems. The final test—a brain-teasing puzzle where they had to manoeuvre a yellow circle out of a board without lifting it—was the ultimate challenge before escaping the room victorious.

Just like the popular drama, the excitement built with each level, but instead of fear and suspense, this adventure was all about laughter, learning, and self-discovery. At the end of their journey, every child emerged a winner, proudly holding a certificate that recognised their achievements.

The young participants were brimming with excitement as they shared their experiences:
“I loved the colours! I made brown, mixing yellow and red, and it was so much fun!” said four-year-old Zainab, showing off her yellow-stained fingers. “Fixing the car with my friends was the best! We made it work together,” grinned three-year-old Rami.

While five-year-old Leila beamed: “The puzzle was hard, but I did it! Now I have a certificate to show my mom.”