Imagine this: A gentle snowfall blankets the ground as you smoothly glide your peacefully sleeping 6-month-old in a stroller along the street. Just a short stroll away lies your favorite café, where you eagerly anticipate wrapping your cold fingers around a steaming cup of coffee. Upon arriving, the café is bustling with patrons, leaving little room for you and your stroller. No worries; you confidently park the stroller right in front of the café, nestled among others, and head inside for your well-deserved caffeine fix — all while leaving your baby outside.
In the U.S., leaving a sleeping infant alone in a parked car, even for a few minutes, could be deemed neglectful and potentially result in legal trouble. However, in Scandinavian countries, this is a common, accepted practice.
Parents in Norway, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, and Sweden embrace a distinctive philosophy when it comes to raising children, often prioritizing childhood and ensuring children’s rights are safeguarded by the government. At first glance, some of their parenting techniques might appear unconventional, but they align closely with gentle and free-range parenting styles. Key features of Scandinavian parenting include independent play, embracing risk, gentle discipline, and an emphasis on outdoor activities.
While American parenting trends are gradually shifting towards granting children more freedom, the idea of letting toddlers roam the streets unsupervised or allowing kids to play naked in the backyard is still far from the norm. This highlights the contrasting, more relaxed mindset of Scandinavian culture, which can feel both intriguing and daunting.
What’s particularly noteworthy about Scandinavian parenting is that many of these age-old traditions are supported by contemporary research. If you’re considering introducing some of these practices into your own parenting style, here’s how to adopt the mindset of a Scandinavian super mom:
Encourage Outdoor Naps for Your Baby
In Scandinavia, it’s routine for babies to nap outside in their well-insulated prams. Studies suggest that children who nap outdoors generally sleep longer than those who rest indoors. Most parents believe that fresh air is vital for health, particularly as it reduces exposure to germs in crowded spaces. Science backs this up, indicating that fresh air can boost immunity while also enhancing mood and reducing stress.
Utilize Daycare Services
In Sweden, government-subsidized daycare is a common solution, often starting when children reach a year old. This cultural norm greatly supports working parents, who enjoy up to 480 days of paid family leave, which can be taken over 12 years. In contrast, accessing affordable childcare in the U.S. is often a significant hurdle for families.
Prioritize Gender Neutrality
In Scandinavian culture, the gender of children is not emphasized, and boys and girls are treated equally. They often utilize gender-neutral nursery schools, where children are called “friends” instead of boys and girls. Sweden has even introduced a gender-neutral pronoun, “hen,” and mandates gender-neutral policies in public education.
Delay Academic Schooling
Children in Scandinavian countries typically start formal education at age 7. Research indicates that postponing school can significantly decrease instances of hyperactivity and inattention. Instead of formal schooling, children aged 1 to 6 attend government-funded preschools that prioritize unstructured play, fostering social skills, creativity, and imagination over academic pressures.
Avoid Physical Punishment
Sweden pioneered the ban on spanking in 1979, with other Scandinavian nations quickly following suit. In contrast, physical punishment remains legal in various U.S. states. Critics may argue that Swedish parents’ approach lacks discipline, but research reveals that physical punishment can lead to psychological trauma, depression, and even suicidal tendencies.
Adopt a Casual Attitude Toward Nudity
Scandinavian families generally maintain a relaxed view of nudity at home. Children are encouraged to be comfortable in their own skin, running around naked both inside and outside whenever possible.
Encourage Outdoor Play and Messiness
Scandinavian culture places a high value on outdoor play, regardless of weather conditions, encapsulated in the saying, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.” Parents ensure their children get outside every day, and returning home dirty is seen as a sign of a day well spent exploring and enjoying nature. Getting dirty is also beneficial for developing robust immune systems.
While Scandinavian parenting practices may seem appealing, they thrive in a culture that values childhood and parental support. Although the United States has yet to reach this level of societal acceptance, adopting select Scandinavian methods can still be beneficial. If leaving your baby asleep outside isn’t your style, consider allowing your toddler to embrace their playful side in the backyard. You’ll be well on your way to embodying the essence of a Scandinavian boss mom.
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Summary
Scandinavian parenting offers valuable insights that prioritize childhood, outdoor play, gender neutrality, and gentle discipline. By embracing these principles, parents can cultivate a nurturing environment for their children, fostering independence and creativity.