When it comes to child-rearing, leaving a baby to nap outside in chilly conditions might raise eyebrows in some cultures. Just ask Danish actress Ingrid Nystrom, who faced child endangerment accusations in 1997 after her husband and she let their 14-month-old sleep outside a New York City café while they enjoyed a drink inside. Despite their vigilance in checking on the child, concerned patrons called the authorities, leading to their arrest.
However, in Scandinavia, this practice is not just accepted but celebrated. It’s common for babies, sometimes as young as two days old, to nap outdoors—often around the two-week mark, according to Linda McGurk, the author of There’s No Such Thing As Bad Weather. In this region, freezing temperatures are the norm, and it’s not unusual for parents to place their infants outside even when it’s as cold as five degrees Fahrenheit, with some daring to go as low as -16 degrees F. I mean, I wouldn’t even step outside in such weather; I’d be curled up at home, hoping for warmer days! Yet, Scandinavian babies are out there napping in what I’d call bitterly cold conditions. In fact, 21 degrees F is considered the ideal temperature for a baby’s outdoor nap.
Justifying Outdoor Naps
So, how can they justify this? As it turns out, many Scandinavian preschools also have outdoor napping policies. For instance, one preschool in Stockholm continues this practice for children until they turn three. Brittmarie Lindqvist, the head teacher, explains that they always cover strollers with blankets, emphasizing that it’s not just about the temperature but how cold it feels due to wind chill. On days when temperatures dip below -4F, the children are brought inside.
The Philosophy of Friluftsliv
But why do Scandinavian parents prefer outdoor naps? McGurk highlights a concept known as friluftsliv, which translates to “open-air living.” This philosophy encourages spending time outdoors to connect with nature without the pressures of competition. It’s believed that immersing children in nature from an early age fosters a love for the environment and enhances their self-esteem.
Moreover, the sounds of nature have a soothing effect—how many of us have white noise machines that mimic the sounds of birds or rustling leaves? A study cited by McGurk mentions that these natural sounds can lower stress responses and promote relaxation, which could lead to better sleep for children, similar to what adults experience.
Health Benefits of Outdoor Napping
Some parents even argue that babies who nap outside are less prone to illnesses. Staying indoors with a bunch of other children exposes them to germs, especially in crowded preschool settings. McGurk points out that children attending forest schools, where they spend most of their time outside, typically take fewer sick days. However, the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency reports mixed findings; some studies indicate toddlers who spend more time outdoors do get sick less often, while others show no significant difference.
Practical Advice for Outdoor Napping
If you’re intrigued by the idea of outdoor napping, McGurk shares practical advice. Babies should be placed in a stroller or reclining seat, starting with a wool underlayer, followed by a snow suit complete with built-in mittens, a hat, and a bunting bag. There’s a popular saying in Scandinavia: “There’s no bad weather, only bad clothing.”
Safety is crucial—always ensure that the baby’s face is visible, and monitor their body temperature by feeling their chest. Keeping an eye on their hands and nose is also important to prevent them from getting too cold. A baby monitor can also help, plus it’s wise to ensure that curious animals stay away (yes, even those pesky squirrels!).
Cultural Perspectives
While the notion of letting babies nap outside might seem far-fetched in the U.S. and could even raise alarms about potential neglect, it’s an intriguing cultural practice worth discussing. The American parenting mindset tends to lean towards keeping babies indoors for safety and warmth, fearing cold temperatures and potential dangers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the practice of outdoor napping may not be widely embraced here, it represents a fascinating cultural difference that reflects how various societies view child-rearing, nature, and health. If you’re looking for more insights into fertility-friendly practices, you might want to check out this helpful resource. For those interested in the science of insemination, this link provides valuable information, and for pregnancy services, Hopkins Medicine is an excellent source.