We Ourselves Make History: Archaeology in Kindergarten as a Strategic Tool in Settlement Strategy and Cultural Heritage Policy

Through the learning programme, ‘We ourselves make history’, Museum Skanderborg uses history and archaeological artefacts to support and develop shared identity among the children of the local kindergartens. The journey through time supports their affiliation to their local area: what happened before me, and why are we here in this period of time? The municipality of Skanderborg is a developing area, with new residents who often have no historical knowledge or connection to the locality of their new home. The children pass on their newfound historical knowledge to their families, thus creating a shared identity that supports them in their growing attachment to their new neighbourhood. Attending the programme is now a strategic goal in the development contracts between the kindergartens and the municipality. On a governance and political level, the learning programme is part of the Skanderborg city council’s revisions to its cultural heritage policy.