Unconventional Baby Care Practices in Nordic Countries

Here are some unique (and seemingly adventurous) baby-raising methods used by parents in Nordic countries such as Finland, Norway, and Denmark.

Babies Sleep In Strollers Outside In Cold Weather In Nordic Countries

In Nordic countries, particularly Norway, a unique practice has gained popularity among parents. Parents leave babies in strollers outside in the cold weather.

A video shared on TikTok shows rows of unattended baby strollers parked outside in Norway to acclimate babies to the harsh winters experienced in the region, where temperatures can plummet as low as minus 50 degrees Celsius.

Leaving babies outside in strollers is not a recent phenomenon but has been a tradition since the early 20th century. Dr. David Thorsteinsson, in 1926, advocated for the benefits of outdoor life and fresh air to strengthen infants’ immune systems, suggesting that babies be left outside in strollers during the day.

This practice has endured over the years, with Nordic parents continuing to trust in the benefits of fresh air and minimal surveillance for their babies. Similar instances of unattended strollers have also been observed in Denmark, highlighting the trust and comfort the citizens have in this practice.

Finnish cardboard boxes for babies, simple idea yet very effective

If you haven’t heard about Finland’s baby boxes (one of the greatest ideas that they have given to the world), read one.

They card board boxes have helped Finland achieve one of the world’s lowest infant mortality rates.

So what does these baby box contain?

It contains everything you need to keep an infant healthy, and happy: clothes, sheets and toys. The box even comes with a mattress and can even be used as the baby’s first crib.

This is one of those simple (yet highly effective) ideas that has found acceptance around the world.

 

Watch: Baby Boxes, idea catching in in U.S / Canad