With funding from the Friedel and Gisela Bohnenkamp Foundation, a special place for learning and socializing was created at the “Haus der Wespe” open all-day care center at the Bullerdiek Elementary School in Westerkappeln: a “Reading Oasis” that offers children a safe space to discover books, experience stories, and develop their own creative ideas.

The project combines the promotion of reading with a holistic understanding of education. Reading opens up new perspectives for children, strengthens their language skills, and helps them develop self-confidence and a love of learning. To this end, the Reading Oasis creates an environment that invites children to linger and offers diverse ways to engage with reading—regardless of their individual prior experiences or language skills.

The newly designed space complements the existing school and after-school routine by providing a place where children can read, listen, tell stories, and create at their own pace. In addition to a diverse selection of books and print materials, digital resources are also incorporated to combine various forms of storytelling and media use.

A particular focus is placed on the children’s active participation. Their interests and ideas are incorporated into the design of the program and help ensure that the Reading Oasis remains a vibrant space that continues to evolve in response to the students’ needs.

Furthermore, the project fosters social interaction: older children can help younger ones with reading, joint activities strengthen exchanges between grade levels, and collaborations with extracurricular partners expand the program’s offerings.

The LeseOase exemplifies how targeted support can create spaces where children can develop their skills, cultivate curiosity, and experience education as a positive experience. The foundation’s support helps establish sustainable structures that foster a love of reading and equal opportunities in everyday school life.