Childhood

The change of homes from an apartment at Langenæs Allé in Aarhus to a house at Skæring Skolevej 123 in Egå marked an important transition in my early childhood. With the move came a natural change in community - the change from being a part of the kindergarten Langenæsen at Langenæs Allé 54, Århus to being a part of the kindergarten Højvang at Skæring Hedevej 14a in Egå.

Among the moments I remember from kindergarten is playing outside. I liked, for example, to climb trees, play football and run around. The Christmas season, when the kindergarten was filled with creativity, laughter, and shared anticipation, was also a joyful time. We played games, made decorations, sang songs, and took part in other traditions that nurtured both imagination and a sense of belonging. Looking back, those early experiences shaped more than just my memories. They helped support the development of essential life competencies. 

Reflecting on what I learned in the kindergartens Langenæsen and Højvang, I recall that my kindergarten friends and I learned far more than letters and numbers. For example, we learned to share toys and other things with each other. We also learned to cooperate when solving various tasks. And we learned to resolve conflicts constructively, for example by listening to as well understanding each other. In addition, we learned to express emotions and needs we had. All of this had the positive effect that we expanded our vocabulary. 

Creative thinking and flexible thinking are other important competencies that we learned in kindergarten. Playing individually and with each other, for example, were opportunities to let imagination run free and strengthen original expression. Today, I view myself as a highly curious person, and I sometimes wonder where that curiosity comes from. I think that what goes on in childhood and kindergarten plays a role. For example, I recall that that listening, observing, trying ideas out and playfully solving problems helped to strengthen my curiosity. I am grateful for kindergarten teachers that enabled free play individually and among us.

I remember that I was quite physically active when I was a child. I loved to run around and play - both outside and inside. By having lots of opportunities to move was, I believe, of key importance for developing fine and gros motor skills. What I also recall was that we learned to dress ourselves, put shoes on ourselves as well as clean up and care for toys. This work strengthened, I recall, self-help and responsibility.