Is Denmark’s Empathy Curriculum The Secret Behind Their Happiness?




It’s no secret that Denmark is the happiest country in the world. In fact, Denmark has been among the top three happiest countries in the world for seven consecutive years. Many people have tried to figure out the country’s secret, from writing books to researching Danish concepts (we’re looking at you, hygge!).

However, many Danes attribute their happiness to things that are taught in their childhood. Namely, empathy.

That’s because Denmark’s empathy program starts in the first year of school (age six) and continues until children reach the age of sixteen. 

These one-hour lessons, called ‘Klassens tid’ or ‘The Class’s Hour,’ happen once a week and are given the same weight as Science, History, or Math. 




The purpose of the classes is for students to come together in a relaxed and non-judgemental setting to discuss any problems they may be having. After a roundtable discussion, the class tries to find a solution to each other’s problems. 

Iben Sandahl, a Danish psychotherapist, educator, and co-author of The Danish Way of Parenting, notes, “Together, the class tries to respect all aspects and angles and together find a solution. Kids’ issues are acknowledged and heard as a part of a bigger community. [And] when you are recognized, you become someone.” 

This way, each student has the chance to be heard, receive encouragement, and solve problems in a democratic way. It also teaches children to listen and learn from others.

Should more classes around the world have empathy classes? Let us know in the comments!

This article was originally published on March 3, 2020.



Luda Berdnyk

Luda is originally from a tiny city in Ukraine, but moved to San Francisco, California, when she was a child and has lived there for 17+ years. Her interests include traveling, learning about (and trying food from) different countries, hiking, and exploring her city.

Recent Posts

American Tommy Paul Wins Nordic Open 2024

Tommy Paul added another chapter to his breakout season by winning the 2024 Nordic Open…

1 month ago

Celebrating 10 Years of the Nordic International Film Festival

Celebrating 10 Years of the Nordic International Film Festival The Nordic International Film Festival (NIFF)…

1 month ago

Kanelbullens Dag: Why Swedes celebrate the Cinnamon Bun

Every year on October 4th, Swedes go a little crazier than usual for the Cinnamon…

2 months ago

Guide: Where to buy Swedish Cinnamon Buns in the U.S.

Get ready to loosen those belts - tomorrow is Cinnamon Bun Day in Sweden! That’s…

2 months ago

Recipe: Swedish Cinnamon Buns

You would think that every day is Cinnamon Bun Day in Sweden with companies like…

2 months ago

Kräftskiva: The origin behind Sweden’s spectacular crayfish parties

Crayfish season starts at the beginning of August and ends somewhere around the end of…

3 months ago

This website uses cookies.