In today’s world, where parents are always concerned about their little ones staying warm in chilly temperatures, a new parenting trend has emerged that may surprise you. It’s called Scandi-style parenting, and it involves letting babies nap outside in the cold. This unique technique is gaining popularity through social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, as parents from all over the world embrace the idea of allowing their children to benefit from the cold for a better sleep.
On social media, you can find heartwarming videos shared by parents, showing their babies snugly tucked into warm prams, left outside homes, cafes, and parks even during winter weather. While it may seem unconventional to some, proponents of this trend argue that it has its merits. In fact, parents have been experimenting with alternative methods to keep their child’s bedroom cooler, such as opening windows or turning on the air conditioning.
Although this Scandinavian-style parenting trend has gained popularity on social media, it’s worth noting that it’s not entirely new. Back in the 1940s, families in cities like London, who didn’t have access to gardens, built outdoor wire cages attached to their windows so that their children could benefit from the fresh air. This concept of letting babies nap outside, even in the cold, has its roots in Scandinavian countries, where it’s a long-standing tradition. In countries like Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland, it’s common for babies to take their daytime naps outdoors, regardless of the temperature.
But why would parents choose to let their babies nap outside in the cold weather? Well, there are several benefits associated with this practice.
Better Sleep for Babies
One of the key advantages of letting babies nap outside in cold weather is the belief that it helps babies sleep better. Fresh air and cool temperatures are thought to promote longer and deeper sleep for infants. In fact, many parents have reported that their babies seem more relaxed and content after napping outdoors.
Boost to the Immune System
Another benefit often associated with this approach is the potential boost it provides to a baby’s immune system. Exposing babies to different temperatures and outdoor elements is believed to help strengthen their immunity, making them less susceptible to common illnesses. While it’s important to dress babies appropriately for the weather, many parents believe that a bit of exposure to the cold can toughen up their little ones.
Connection with Nature from a Young Age
Scandinavian countries prioritize outdoor play and connection with nature from a young age, and letting babies nap outside aligns perfectly with this philosophy. Spending time outdoors is an integral part of their culture, and this extends to infants as well. It’s seen as a way to instill a love for nature and the outdoors from the earliest stages of life.
While the Scandi-style parenting trend of letting babies nap outside in the cold may seem unusual to some, it’s not entirely without historical precedent. Families in urban areas like London resorted to building outdoor wire cages during the 1940s to give their children access to fresh air, driven by the belief that exposure to outdoor air was beneficial for overall health.
In conclusion, the Scandi-style parenting trend of letting babies nap outside in the cold is gaining popularity in the age of social media. It has its roots in Scandinavian traditions, where it’s considered a beneficial practice for promoting better sleep and a stronger immune system in infants. While this approach may not be suitable for all families or climates, it highlights the importance of considering alternative parenting methods and the potential benefits of exposing children to the natural world from a young age. As with any parenting decision, it’s crucial for parents to prioritize their child’s safety and consult with healthcare professionals when exploring new practices.
