Denmark is credited with pioneering “forest kindergartens”, a special type of kindergarten where children spend most of every day outside in a natural environment. In such forest kindergartens you will take part in the many different outdoor activities and help children understand and appreciate nature.
In Denmark most parents work outside the home and therefore almost all children attend kindergartens from age three until starting school.
Danish kindergartens aim to provide the best possible care and at the same time help children develop themselves through games and educational activities. Most kindergartens are run by the municipality and provide lunch, as well as morning and afternoon snacks.
As a volunteer you will have a unique opportunity to become involved in many interesting pre-school activities, have a close interaction with the children and spend most of your working time outdoor. You will also learn about Danish childcare and the philosophy behind the forest kindergartens.
Volunteer tasks can include:
- Helping staff in the daily work
- Organizing outdoor activities for the children
- Helping the children understand and appreciate nature
- Helping with preparation of meals and assisting in excursions
- Sharing your language and cultural background with the children
- Introducing games from your home country for the children
Which tasks and responsibilities you will be given depend on your interests and skills. You will be working closely with one of the staff members, who will support and guide you.
Practicalities
- All costs in connection with your participation in this program are included: such as food, accommodation, language education and orientations. However, you will need to bring pocket money for your own spending. Denmark is an expensive country so it is recommended having a minimum of USD 170 per month.
- You will be met by AFS on arrival to Copenhagen airport and be taken directly to the on-arrival orientation. On day 3 they you will be helped board the train to your local community where your host family will meet you at the train station.
- You will be invited to mid-term orientations with AFS which are held in April and November.
