Inspiration from Early Years Education in Copenhagen - A trip to Denmark
- Misty Ardouin
- Sep 19
- 3 min read

Earlier this month, I had the wonderful opportunity to spend a few days in Copenhagen, visiting different childcare settings to see how things are done in Denmark and to bring back fresh ideas for Nestlings Nurseries. It was both inspiring and eye-opening, and I left with plenty of food for thought about how we can continue to evolve and refine the care we offer.
I visited three very different settings: two nurseries – one small and one much larger – and a business that brings nannies together to support families. Each offered a unique perspective, but there were clear themes running throughout that really stood out to me.
A Relaxed Atmosphere
The first thing I noticed was how calm and relaxed each environment felt. There was very little sense of rushing or stress, and the children seemed to thrive in this atmosphere. Staff guided them gently, but most activities were child-led. It was lovely to see the children moving at their own pace, making choices, and being given so much trust and independence.
Time Outdoors
Another striking difference was the amount of time spent outside. In all the settings, but particularly with the nannies, being outdoors was simply part of everyday life – all year round. Whether it was sunshine, wind, or rain, the children were wrapped up appropriately and encouraged to enjoy nature. Outdoor play wasn’t seen as an “extra” activity, but as central to their development and wellbeing.
This idea of nature as the children’s “second classroom” really resonated with me. There was such a natural rhythm to the days, shaped by the seasons and the weather, rather than an over-packed schedule. It’s a wonderful reminder of how much children benefit when we slow down and allow them to connect with the world around them.

Simple Routines that Provide Security
Although the approach was largely relaxed and flexible, there were some well-established routines that created a sense of security for the children. One example was nap time, when children changed into sleepwear and followed the same routine each day. This ritual gave a clear signal that it was time to rest, helping the children settle more easily.
It was a good reminder that structure doesn’t have to mean rigidity – it can simply be about providing consistency in the moments that matter most.
Organic Food as the Everyday Norm
One cultural detail that really struck me was Denmark’s approach to food. The majority of what people eat, both at home and when dining out, is organic. It’s not positioned as a luxury or a trend, but simply the everyday norm. Cafes, restaurants, nurseries, and families alike all embrace organic food as the natural choice.
This commitment to health and quality reflects a wider value system – one where children grow up knowing that the food they eat is both nourishing and sustainable.
At Nestlings, we are proud to already be an organic nursery, and my trip reaffirmed just how important this commitment is. But it also inspired me to think about how we can go one step further: helping families, staff, and even other childcare providers to explore organic lifestyles too. Small changes – like choosing organic fruit and vegetables, or switching to organic milk – can have a big impact. By sharing knowledge, tips, and recipes, we can help others see that organic living is both accessible and rewarding.

Support for Families
What also stood out in Denmark was the way families are supported through childcare funding. Parents are given real choice, and the emphasis is on making high-quality care accessible to all. This strong partnership between government, families, and providers creates a system that feels supportive and fair.
While the UK system is different, it was encouraging to see how much of a difference that kind of support can make for families. It’s something I’d love to see reflected more widely here.
Takeaways for Nestlings
Returning to Wales, I feel inspired to continue building on what matters most:
Creating relaxed, child-led environments.
Embedding the outdoors as a natural part of nursery life.
Honouring gentle routines for comfort and security.
Championing organic food and encouraging its embrace at home and in communities.
My time in Copenhagen reminded me that simple practices like fresh air, organic food, trust, and gentle routines can make a big difference in a child’s life. It was reassuring to see that we already implement these methods at Nestlings.
It was a privilege to spend time with passionate childcare professionals in Denmark. I’m excited to continue educating our staff and families on the importance of these practices and to share our experiences to inspire others. My visit reaffirmed the value of what we already do at Nestlings, and I am more committed than ever to nurturing these practices and sharing their benefits with our community.

Comments