Hands-on creativity
At the start of the workshop, the instructor, Shala, handed out a set of materials to the young participants: pieces of brown and white cardboard, red cellophane sheets, coloured pencils, and glue. Following her guidance, they began designing their own lenses in the shape of handheld magnifiers. Once finished, the fun truly began as they wrote secret messages using blue pens and soon discovered how their handmade lenses could reveal hidden words and shapes.
Commenting on the workshop, Shala said: “We wanted the children to enjoy an experience that combines play and learning — from making the lens to uncovering hidden messages. All of this gives them a sense of achievement and enjoyment at the same time.” She added that the workshop aimed to strengthen observation, scientific thinking, and the natural curiosity that underpins every learning journey.
By the end of the session, the children left holding the lenses they had created, their eyes shining with the excitement of a new discovery. It was a simple activity in terms of tools, yet it left a lasting impression, embodying the spirit of the Sharjah International Book Fair 2025, which offers not only knowledge in books but also a living, sensory experience for every visitor.