Happiness education unlocks secrets to children's growth

The 5th China-Denmark Happiness Education Conference, themed "Educational Happiness: How to Stay Connected with Nature," was recently held at the Mo Yan Literary and Art Museum in Gaomi, Shandong. The event brought together over 400 education experts, students, and educators from both China and Denmark.

Chairman of the Danish Lifelong Learning Association praised Gaomi's literary and educational strengths and looks forward to future China-Denmark conferences in the city.

Mette Joerl, regional director of the Bornholm Forest Daycare Center in Denmark, gives a speech. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Gaomi has made significant strides in education reform, incorporating advanced teaching concepts and emphasizing quality education. The city has adopted interactive, immersive classrooms that foster students' connection with nature, supporting their physical and mental well-being, character development, and creativity.

At recess at Fangling primary school in Kanjia town, children play traditional games like hopscotch and shuttlecock, keeping these games alive. Principal Xin Min emphasized how these games allow children to connect with nature and create joy.

A teacher teaches her students about soybeans. [Photo provided by Li Haitao/for chinadaily.com.cn]

In Gaomi, children explore nature year-round, from identifying wild vegetables in the spring to harvesting wheat in the summer and enjoying snowball fights in winter. These activities deepen their knowledge, stimulate their curiosity, and contribute to their overall development.

Students experience hand-pollination in a peach orchard. [Photo provided by Li Haitao/for chinadaily.com.cn]

Gaomi's education system also incorporates intangible cultural heritage into educational programs, offering over 70 study centers and more than 100 high-quality courses. (Edited by Lin Li)