How positive childhood experiences promote children’s development of democratic skills in Denmark

Abstract

The development of children as democratic citizens is a strong focus in Danish/Scandinavian child care tradition. Danish children and youth people perform at a high level (take first place) in international studies that measure being prepared for living and acting in a democratic society. Due to cultural and historical values, the foundation for the development of democratic skills is shaped through policies, culture, and practices in families, primary school, and child care. Listening to and giving children an influence on their everyday lives in lived democracy is an important part of the culture from very early on.