"Hold on — do children at your place just learn whatever they want?" That's a question we're often asked. And the answer is: yes and no. Freilernen is far more than "letting them do as they please". It is a carefully designed educational philosophy based on decades of research that turns children into independent, motivated learners.
Let's take a closer look at what Freilernen really means — especially for families moving to Denmark who are looking for an alternative educational path for their children.
The Core Principles of Freilernen
Freilernen (known in English as "Unschooling") is based on a simple but powerful idea: Children are naturally curious and want to learn. They don't need artificial incentives or coercion — they need guidance, support and an environment that nurtures their curiosity.
How does it work in practice?
Imagine your seven-year-old son is fascinated by the Vikings. In a traditional school he might briefly touch on the topic in history class — when the curriculum allows. With Freilernen this enthusiasm becomes the starting point for a comprehensive learning adventure:
- History: Who were the Vikings? How did they live? What traces have they left in Denmark?
- Geography: Where did they sail? Why was Scandinavia the perfect starting point?
- Mathematics: How did the Vikings navigate without modern instruments? How did one build a seaworthy ship?
- Language: Which Old Norse words do we still use today? How did people write in runes?
From a single interest an interdisciplinary learning project emerges that covers all key competences — but in a way that truly captivates the child.
Freilernen Is Not "Not-Learning"
A common misconception: with Freilernen there is no structure, no goals, no real learning. The opposite is true.
At Kreativ.Schule we work with a flexible curriculum developed together with parents. We make sure all key competence areas are covered:
- Language skills: Reading, writing, communication (in German, English and Danish if desired)
- Mathematical thinking: From basic arithmetic to more complex concepts
- Natural sciences: Biology, physics, chemistry — experienced and made understandable
- Social competences: Cooperation, empathy, conflict resolution
- Creative thinking: Art, music, free expression
- Critical thinking: Asking questions, solving problems, forming one's own opinions
The difference from traditional schools? The path is individual and tailored to your child's strengths and interests.
Why Freilernen Works Particularly Well in Denmark
Denmark has a long tradition of educational freedom. The Danish school system values trust, independence and individual learning — values that fit perfectly with Freilernen.
Danish Hygge meets Freilernen philosophy
In Denmark there is a concept that is hard to translate: Hygge. It describes an atmosphere of cosiness, security and wellbeing. This is precisely the atmosphere that shapes learning in our creative workshop.
Learning should not mean stress, pressure and fear. It should be a joy. Children should feel safe, be allowed to make mistakes and sense that they are seen as whole people — not just as "pupils with grades".
Nature as the classroom
Denmark is a paradise for children who love the outdoors. The gentle hills, the beaches, the forests — all of this becomes our extended classroom. Biology is best learned at the seaside examining crabs and mussels. Physics becomes exciting when you build and fly kites. Southern Denmark offers perfect conditions for nature-based, experiential learning.
Who is Freilernen For?
Freilernen suits children of all ages — with us from pre-school through to Year 10. Those who benefit most include:
Children who don't thrive in traditional schools
Some children simply need more freedom of movement, more time or a different approach to learning. They are not less intelligent — they learn differently.
Gifted children
Children who learn faster than average often become bored in regular classes. With Freilernen they can follow their own pace.
Children with particular interests
Whether your child is passionate about astronomy, coding, animals or music — with Freilernen they can dive deep into these topics.
Families who value individuality
You want your child not to just "function" but to truly learn? Then you've come to the right place.
Your Role as Parents
In Freilernen parents are important partners in the learning process. That does not mean you have to teach yourselves — that's what we're here for. But you are involved:
- Joint planning: We regularly discuss where your child is and where the journey should head.
- Feedback: You know your child best and help us tailor the lessons optimally.
- Support at home: When your child has a project, you can accompany them.
- Trust: You trust that learning works even without coercion.
At Kreativ.Schule you are not alone. Adrienne brings years of experience and accompanies you along the way.
Common Concerns — and Our Answers
"But my child needs to enter the real world one day?"
The "real world" does not wait for people who have memorised things. It needs creative problem-solvers, people who can think independently and who know how to learn. That is exactly what we foster.
"What about qualifications?"
In Denmark there are flexible options for gaining qualifications later or finding alternative paths into working life. We prepare children for this together with you.
"Will my child become socially isolated?"
On the contrary! With Freilernen children often learn in mixed-age groups, experience real social situations and develop deep friendships — not just with peers.
Give It a Try!
Curious but still unsure? We completely understand. That's why Adrienne offers every child two discounted trial sessions. Your child can get to know the learning environment, experience how individualised learning works, make first contacts with other children and find out whether Freilernen is the right path. And you can get to know Adrienne and her approach, ask all your questions and decide at your own pace whether this suits your family.
Contact us today: hallo@kreativ.schule
