Research on the Integration of Local Culture and Kindergarten Aesthetic Education

Abstract

This study focuses on the paths and practices of integrating local culture with aesthetic education in kindergartens, aiming to explore its value in enhancing children's cultural identity, broadening their aesthetic experiences, and strengthening educational contexts. It also analyzes the current challenges in this practice and proposes systematic optimization strategies. Through a combination of literature research, field interviews, and case studies, this study systematically analyzes the integration practices implemented in five kindergartens in Zigong, Sichuan. The study finds that integrating local cultural elements, such as intangible cultural heritage skills and festivals and folk customs, into aesthetic education can help stimulate children's national sentiments, enhance their aesthetic creativity, and strengthen the life-oriented nature of education. However, current integration practices generally face multiple challenges, including insufficient teacher literacy, fragmented curriculum design, and a lack of resource systems. To enhance the effectiveness of this integration, the study recommends systematically advancing teacher training, curriculum construction, and resource development, aiming to build a local aesthetic education system that is regionally relevant, child-friendly, and educationally oriented. This study contributes to promoting the contemporary expression of local culture and the cultural return of preschool education, providing theoretical support and practical guidance for the localization of kindergarten curriculum.