ANOHA — The Children’s World of the Jewish Museum Berlin

A Modern Ark for Learning and Play
Located directly across from the distinguished Jewish Museum Berlin, ANOHA presents a truly unique and inspiring environment specifically designed for children up to the age of ten . Drawing inspiration from both ancient and contemporary narratives of floods, ANOHA aims to instill a sense of hope and possibility when considering significant global challenges such as climate change . The central feature of ANOHA is an awe-inspiring circular wooden ark, spanning an impressive 6,300 square feet and reaching almost 23 feet in height, making it a remarkable architectural centerpiece . Within this modern ark, children can encounter and interact with over 150 unique animal sculptures, each one thoughtfully created from recycled materials by talented German artists . This creative approach encourages young visitors to contemplate the importance of recycling and the adaptive reuse of materials, all while nurturing their own creativity and imagination . ANOHA is intentionally designed as an inclusive space, ensuring that children from all backgrounds, of varying ages and with diverse abilities, feel welcomed and engaged, with a strong emphasis on hands-on learning through play . Throughout the ark, interactive exhibits are strategically placed along intuitive pathways, guiding children to develop their problem-solving skills both independently and as part of a group . Explorative areas, thoughtfully modeled after the natural habitats of various animals, offer children the opportunity to experience the world from different perspectives . Through imaginative role-playing scenarios, children can engage in activities like pretending to feed and groom the animal sculptures, fostering a sense of responsibility and connection to the natural world, all while subtly introducing the Jewish concept of Tikkun Olam, which emphasizes the repair and betterment of the world . ANOHA also houses dedicated workshop rooms and studios, providing ample space for children to participate in creative endeavors, musical activities, and theatrical performances . While admission is free for children, it is necessary to make a reservation in advance, and adults are required to be accompanied by children (with the exception of specific guided tours) . To fully enjoy the experience of exploring the ark, visitors are kindly asked to wear non-slip socks . ANOHA's unique approach of blending museum education with interactive play signifies a growing trend in cultural institutions to create more engaging and accessible learning environments for young audiences. The focus on sustainability and social responsibility, through the use of recycled materials and the exploration of themes like environmental awareness and inclusion, demonstrates the potential of children's spaces to convey important values. Furthermore, the distinctive architectural design of the ark itself serves to enhance the play experience, creating a memorable and inspiring environment for learning and exploration.