Internazionale Kids Festival: Journalism and Discovery in Reggio Emilia
A three-day immersive event fostering critical thinking and creativity for young readers.
1Immersive Journalism Experience
Internazionale Kids in Reggio Emilia transforms the magazine into a three-day physical festival for children aged eight to fourteen. The city becomes a hub of learning, utilizing theaters, museums, libraries, and the Mapei Stadium. This event bridges the gap between printed journalism and direct interaction with young, curious readers.
2Diverse Thematic Scope
The festival covers a wide spectrum of contemporary issues, ranging from climate change and global conflicts to artificial intelligence and sports. Participants explore complex topics like politics, science, and music through workshops and discussions. This broad curriculum ensures children engage with the world’s most pressing challenges in accessible, age-appropriate ways.
3Active Participation Model
Children are not passive spectators but active contributors who challenge guests with difficult and unexpected questions. They participate in collective interviews and hands-on workshops focused on drawing, comics, photography, and theater. These sessions teach essential skills, such as verifying news sources and understanding how complex digital algorithms function daily.
4Beyond Traditional Learning
The festival balances serious discourse with a festive atmosphere, featuring DJ sets, ping pong matches, and chess tournaments. A temporary lawn installed in a city square allows children to walk barefoot, fostering a sense of community. These social moments help attendees reconnect with old friends and build new, meaningful connections.
5Engaging Adult Educators
The event extends its reach to parents, teachers, and educators through dedicated sessions. These meetings focus on the evolving relationship between adults and children, the challenges posed by rapid technological advancement, and modern educational strategies. By involving adults, the festival creates a holistic support system for the children’s ongoing development.
6Institutional Collaboration
Organized by Internazionale in partnership with the Municipality of Reggio Emilia and the Fondazione Palazzo Magnani, the festival relies on various sponsors. This collaboration ensures the event remains a fixture in the city’s cultural calendar. The production involves extensive coordination to manage diverse venues like the Teatri Cavallerizza and Valli.
7Historical Growth Trajectory
Since its inception in 2021, the festival has hosted a vast array of writers, scientists, illustrators, and journalists. Each edition, from the first in 2021 to the sixth planned for 2026, has expanded its network of associations and collectives. This consistent growth highlights the increasing demand for high-quality, youth-oriented media literacy.
8Impact and Future Outlook
The festival serves as a vital platform for understanding how the younger generation perceives the world. By providing a space for open dialogue, it empowers children to become informed citizens. The continued involvement of diverse experts ensures that the event remains relevant, impactful, and essential for future civic engagement.