The Surprising Nordic Tradition That Works
Imagine strolling through Sweden on a chilly winter day, the air crisp and snow crunching underfoot. Outside cafes and daycares, you notice rows of strollers parked outdoors, each holding a peacefully sleeping baby. Wait—what? Babies napping outside in the cold? It might seem odd, but this is entirely normal in Sweden and other Nordic countries.
So why do they do it? And is there science to back it up? Let’s explore this fascinating tradition.
The History Behind Placing Babies in the Cold to Nap
This custom began in the early 20th century when urban areas struggled with poor indoor air quality. Diseases like tuberculosis were widespread, and fresh air was believed to boost immunity and prevent illness. Scandinavian doctors and parenting experts encouraged outdoor naps, and over time, it became a cultural norm.
By the 1950s, it was common to see babies bundled up and napping outside, even in freezing temperatures. The practice reflects a broader Nordic belief in the health benefits of being close to nature, regardless of the season.
How It’s Practiced Today
Outdoor napping remains a popular and trusted parenting tradition in Sweden, Finland, Denmark, and Norway. Here’s how parents make it work:
- They dress the babies in warm layers, often in wool or fleece, and place them in insulated sleeping bags.
- Strollers are parked on porches, balconies, or outside daycares—even in temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F).
- Parents monitor the weather and ensure the babies are safe from wind and snow.
Daycares often embrace this tradition. For example, many Finnish nurseries require babies to nap outdoors daily unless the temperature drops below -15°C (5°F) or extreme weather makes it unsafe.
The Benefits: Science Meets Tradition
Parents swear by outdoor naps, but does science agree? Here’s what researchers and experts say:
- Improved Sleep Quality:
According to the BBC, a study from Finland found that babies who nap outdoors sleep longer than those indoors, with naps lasting 1.5 to 3 hours compared to 1 to 2 hours inside. - Better Health:
Advocates believe fresh air reduces exposure to indoor germs, which may help babies get sick less often. While there’s no definitive proof, anecdotal evidence supports the idea. - Happier Babies:
Parents often notice outdoor naps leave their babies refreshed, with improved appetites and energy levels (Source: IFLScience).
Why It’s More Than Just Napping
This tradition ties into Nordic values of outdoor living and self-reliance. It reflects a cultural attitude of trusting nature to support well-being. Many Nordic parents also appreciate the convenience—babies nap while they run errands or enjoy a coffee nearby.
There isn’t a specific name in English for the Nordic custom of letting babies nap outdoors, but in Swedish, it’s commonly referred to as “utomhus sovande” (outdoor sleeping) or “utomhus vilan” (outdoor napping). In Finnish, it’s called “päiväunet ulkona”, which also translates to “napping outdoors.”
While it doesn’t have a formal or unique term, it’s considered a deeply ingrained cultural practice rather than something needing a distinct label. It’s often associated with the broader Nordic concept of “friluftsliv”, meaning “open-air living,” emphasizing spending time outdoors for health and well-being.
Would You Try Putting Babies Outside in the Cold to Nap?
Curious about giving outdoor naps a shot? It’s becoming a growing trend in other countries, too. If you want to try:
- Start with short naps on mild days.
- Bundle your baby appropriately to keep them warm.
- Avoid extreme weather conditions and monitor them closely.
Outdoor naps might not be for everyone, but they highlight an inspiring way to embrace fresh air and nature—even with little ones.
What do you think—could this Nordic tradition work for you? It’s certainly food for thought (and fresh air)!
For further reading on the benefits of cold weather, visit How Spending Time Outside is Part of a Healthy Life.
