WHEN Helen Russell initially relocated to Denmark, she was impressed by the apparent happiness and well-being of the Danish population. Following her husband’s employment at Lego, they made the move, and now, a decade later, they are bringing up three children, aged between six and nine, in the Danish manner.
Author Helen Russell delved into the intriguing cultural distinctions between the Nordic countries, shedding light on why they boast some of the world’s happiest children. Her bestselling book, “The Year Of Living Danishly,” explored these differences, while her subsequent work, “How To Raise A Viking,” delves deeper into the realm of parenting, aiming to uncover the reasons behind Denmark’s consistent top rankings in global happiness polls since the 1970s.
Nordic countries such as Iceland, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark exhibit the highest levels of well-being among children worldwide, contrasting with the UK and US where children experience higher rates of mental health issues, as reported by UNICEF.
One notable difference lies in the parenting approach, with Danes adopting a less rigid style compared to British norms. For instance, Danish children typically start reading at a later age, around seven or eight, have minimal homework, and dress themselves from a young age.
To glean insights from Nordic parenting practices, here are some tips from Helen on nurturing resilient and content “mini Vikings”:
Embrace the Outdoors Regardless of the Weather
Danes wholeheartedly embrace outdoor activities in all seasons, recognizing the numerous benefits of spending time in nature. Despite this, a significant portion of UK children spend less time outdoors than prison inmates, according to Persil. In Nordic countries, the mindset is that there is no bad weather, only inadequate clothing. This exposure to varying conditions helps build children’s resilience and self-assurance.
Prioritize Family Meals and Nutritious Eating
In Denmark, the emphasis is on providing children with wholesome foods to fuel their bodies, such as oats, rye bread, and fresh, seasonal produce. Family meals are cherished moments of togetherness, devoid of distractions like television. Unlike the common practice of using food as a bargaining tool in the UK, Danish children are not coerced into eating and are allowed to follow their hunger cues, fostering intuitive eating habits.
Cultivate Playtime as Essential
Nordic countries place a high value on play, recognizing its role in promoting happiness, health, and cognitive development. Play comes in different forms, structured games (spille) and imaginative play (lege), both considered crucial for children’s holistic development. In contrast, many UK children today lead overscheduled lives, lacking sufficient time for unstructured play.
Singing for Joy and Bonding
Singing is a cherished activity in Denmark, known for its positive impact on well-being and sense of community. Singing together fosters a sense of unity and releases stress-reducing hormones like oxytocin. Encouraging children to sing aloud, whether in the car or during a kitchen disco, can uplift spirits and strengthen family bonds.
Foster Confidence Through Communication
Danish children are encouraged to express themselves from an early age, instilling a sense of worth and confidence in their voices. Encouraging children to articulate their thoughts and opinions helps build their self-assurance and communication skills, essential in today’s world where self-expression is valued.
Avoid Excessive Praise
In Denmark, not every achievement is met with excessive praise, as children are raised to understand their inherent worth and do not rely on external validation for self-esteem. This approach cultivates a sense of intrinsic value and self-assurance in children.
By incorporating these Nordic-inspired parenting practices, caregivers can create a nurturing environment that promotes resilience, confidence, and well-being in children.
- How To Raise A Viking: The Secrets Of Parenting The World’s Happiest Children by Helen Russell (£16.99, Fourth Estate) is out now.