børnene

Børnene is the definite plural form of the Danish noun børn, meaning "the children." It is used when referring to a specific group of children that has already been mentioned or is understood from context. In Danish, the definite form distinguishes "the children" from the indefinite form børn (children). The term can refer to children in a family, a community, or in a policy context.

Børn is a North Germanic word, related to the Norwegian word barn and the Swedish barn. The definite plural form is created by the suffix -ene, yielding børnene. The word’s modern usage reflects long-standing patterns in Danish for marking definiteness in plural nouns.

In Danish society, children are central to family life and welfare policy. The government provides childcare, schooling, health services, and protections designed to support young people and families. Denmark is a party to international conventions protecting children's rights, and national law aims to ensure safety, development, participation, and access to education and healthcare for all children.

Child development encompasses physical, cognitive, and social growth from infancy through adolescence. Danish approaches emphasize early support, inclusive education, and access to services that promote well-being and equal opportunities. Families, schools, and communities collaborate to nurture children and prepare them for independent participation in society.