Holiday Lettings news - Kidzania - a theme park run by children

Kidzania - a theme park run by children

An educational theme park where children can try out jobs is the latest craze in Japan and Mexico. Kidzania is a large indoor town where children experience the world of work via role play.

Kidzania originated in Mexico and the Japanese park opened in 2006 in Tokyo's docklands, reports The Independent on Sunday. Kidzania has 70 different shops, businesses and restaurants, as well as a police station. Everything, including part of a Boeing 737, is staffed by thousands of children, aged between two and 15.

The idea is that children learn about responsibility, decision-making and team-work with "Zupervisors". Children are given a security bracelet when they arrive and 50 "Kidzos" (Kidzania's currency), which they can deposit in the bank or spend as they wish. They can earn more Kidzos through the job they take on during their visit.

Excitement and fun is also important: "In Kidzania...it is always dusk, because dusk is when kids have to go home, so it adds an exciting air," said a spokesman. Visitor numbers to the parks, thousands each day, "testify to the enthusiasm of Kidzania's citizens", the paper adds.

Popular jobs at Kidzania include firemen (who ride a fire engine), cabin crew and police officers, as well as working in the TV studio.

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