Most people are familiar with Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale “The Princess and the Pea”. But in China, experiencing the story as a physical, sensory movement play was something entirely new – and it sparked enthusiasm among both children and adults.

This is explained by the Danish early years educator Hanne Nielsen, who has just returned from a three-week stay at two kindergartens in China. There, she worked closely with Chinese educators and children, introducing them to Danish early years pedagogy – and to stories such as “The Princess and the Pea”.

“The Chinese teacher read the fairy tale aloud from the book, and afterwards we acted it out together with the children,” Hanne explains. “The second time in particular, there was a high level of engagement. I had asked ChatGPT to design a playing activity with an accompanying description and translate it into Chinese – and it worked really well!’

As an educator with a particular focus on motor skills, Hanne threw herself wholeheartedly into the play – exactly the way children love. “The children loved the activity, and many of the adults were surprised by how physically involved I was. It was important to me to be completely at the children’s level.”

 

Danish pedagogy at children’s level – in China

Hanne introduced several activities that combined storytelling and movement – a pedagogical approach that captured everyone’s attention.

“It was an incredible experience to be able to share and demonstrate how, in Denmark, we work with a child-centred approach based on recognition and respect. It made a strong impression,” says Hanne. “And it was truly unique to see how my ideas were received – with openness, curiosity and a genuine desire to learn.”

Since returning home, Hanne has received videos and messages from the educators in China, who are now continuing to work with some of the methods she introduced.

One particularly meaningful moment for Hanne was when a Chinese educator told her that she has begun making more eye contact with each individual child – inspired by Hanne’s emphasis on the importance of this practice.

 

Inspiration from China – and challenges

Hanne was especially impressed by the Chinese approach to nature and materials. For example, the children worked with batik printing using natural dyes, and Hanne herself took part in digging up lotus roots – roots that were later used in cooking activities with the children.

Another inspiring practice was the fixed resting periods – not only for the children, but in some cases also for the staff. “It created a sense of calm that helped reduce conflicts,” says Hanne, adding that this is something Danish institutions could learn from.

However, the stay also presented challenges – particularly when it came to the local food culture. “It was difficult to decline certain dishes without seeming impolite,” Hanne explains. “Food plays a very important role in Chinese culture, so it required balance and respect.”

 

A memory for life

Hanne describes her stay in China as a profound experience, both personally and professionally. “Being able to share our Danish pedagogical approach – while at the same time experiencing a completely different culture from the inside – has been a memory for life.”

 

You can watch one of the videos here.