Odense, Denmark’s third-largest city and birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, values creativity and child-centered learning deeply within its early childhood education system. Following Denmark’s national model, children typically attend “vuggestue” or “børnehave” before formal schooling begins at age six ([Reference 1]).
The city closely adheres to the “Læreplanstemaer” ([Reference 2]), emphasizing personal development, social competencies, language, creativity, movement, and nature exploration. Odense has pioneered creative learning methods, encouraging storytelling, drama, and imaginative play as core components of early education.
Municipal programs like “Sammen om Barnet” (“Together for the Child”) ([Reference 3]) focus on early intervention and cross-sector collaboration among educators, health services, and social workers to provide holistic support for children’s development.
Additionally, Odense promotes inclusivity by ensuring that children with special needs or non-Danish backgrounds receive tailored support from the earliest stages.
As a kindergarten director, I find Odense’s approach inspiring—blending academic goals with creative exploration, community collaboration, and strong emotional nurturing to prepare children for a joyful and meaningful future.

References:

• [1] Ministry of Children and Education, Denmark: Early Childhood Education Structure

• [2] Læreplanstemaer (Learning Themes Framework)

• [3] Odense Municipality: Sammen om Barnet (Early Intervention Program)