10 illustrations to help refugees learn German
These fun illustrations are helping refugees learn German. And they can help you too.
German words you need every day
How many of these household objects do you know in German? This is one of dozens of black-and-white illustrations that can be used to bridge the language barrier, give refugee children a coloring project, and help teach everyday German vocabulary and culture. Co-founded by illustrator Constanze von Kitzing, the projects brings together drawings by various illustrators across the country.
What's for lunch?
Since various illustrators have donated their skills to the project, many different styles are represented and some images also contain text. This picture not only offers basic food vocabulary, it also explains what Germans like to eat - boiled eggs for breakfast, sausage for lunch and sliced bread for dinner.
The officer is your friend
Authorities like police and firemen are not always seen as friendly helpers in the refugees' home countries. One aim of the drawings is to build trust between the refugees and the German authorities, says co-founder Constanze von Kitzing.
Practicing for an emergency
Hopefully refugee children don't have to experience a real fire, but they can still learn what a "Feuerwehrmann" (fireman) does. Perhaps it's a job they would like to pursue later on. The sign in the image reads "fire drill."
Constructive illustrations
Kids all over the world are fascinated by construction sites - and there are plenty of them in Germany. "Bagger" (excavator) could quickly become young learners' favorite German word.
On the wild side
Which animals are kept as pets varies from country to country. These are popular in German households - though dogs and cats are certainly the most common.
Worrying about waste
Dealing with trash is practically a hobby in Germany. Everything is strictly separated into bins for paper, glass, recyclables, organic waste, and everything else - in the hope that the latter turns out to be the smallest pile. This illustration is helpful not only for newcomers to Germany, but also serves as a reminder for those who've lived here for a long time.
Dealing with other kids
Many refugee children are sent to school or pre-school - known as "Kindergarten" - very soon after arriving in Germany. This image shows how kids can "teilen" (share) and politely interact with each other - and is also something many of us grown-ups could take to work with us.
City life
Old and young pedestrians, cars, bikes, dogs, and shops: Going out onto the street in a strange new city can sometimes be overwhelming. This picture breaks the cityscape down to the most important things - like the bakery on every corner.
Learning can be fun
This image, illustrated by Constanze von Kitzig herself, combines language with play. It can be used to practice words like "Hose" (pants), "Rock" (skirt) and "Jacke" (jacket) before it's cut out and the paper doll is dressed. More illustrations can be found at illustratorenfuerfluechtlinge.de.