Would you leave your baby outside to sleep if we told you that it’s the best sleep they’ll ever get? Well, it may be time to ditch the lullabies, white noise machines and endless bouncing up-and-down.
A recent viral TikTok reveals that it’s the norm for babies to sleep outside in Danish and Scandinavian countries. Parents get to enjoy a hot drink from inside of a cafe or a casual meet up with friends while they watch their baby sleeping peacefully inside their stroller outside.
@annieineventyrland ♬ path of the wind ~ my neighbor totoro lofi – Closed on Sunday
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What countries let their babies sleep outside?
Babies sleeping outside is a common practice in many Scandinavian countries. The most widely noted countries are Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Iceland. It is worth noting that these countries generally have longer and colder winters than other parts of the world.
Why do Scandinavian babies sleep outside?
Scandinavians embrace this practice for its many cultural benefits. A few are:
- Babies that sleep outside usually sleep more deeply and for longer periods of time. This is thought to be due to the fresh air and natural environment.
- Babies’ immune systems are strengthened because of the exposure to natural elements and colder temperatures. This allows them to fight off illnesses better and get sick less frequently.
- Sleeping outdoors helps babies get accustomed to sleeping during the day. This leads to a more predictable nap pattern which is often easier for parents to manage.
- Outdoor sleep is more peaceful for the babies, aiding in emotional regulation and reduced fussiness.
- Being outdoors allows babies to get Vitamin D which promotes heathy bone development.
Danish babies sleep alone outside
In the viral TikTok from @annieineventyrland, she explains that it’s customary for babies to sleep outside, regardless of the weather. She also reveals that its recommended by midwives and baby nurses in Danish countries to have your baby sleep outside.
“Fresh air is said to keep babies healthy and helps them sleep better and napping your baby in their stroller outside is done in all sorts of weather,” says the TikToker.
The video shows footage of babies outside sleeping in their strollers. There’s one clip where multiple strollers are outside while the parents are getting in some quality time with themselves or friends.
What are the Danish recommendations for baby sleep?
In colder temperatures, it is highly recommended to ensure the baby is wrapped in warm clothing. Scandinavians often use wool or other thick, thermal materials.
It is also important to ensure the stroller is parked in a safe location free from hazards or danger. Keep nearby to ensure that if any situation changes, the baby and stroller are easily accessible.
Many parents also place a baby monitor inside of the stroller to allow them to hear if the baby wakes up. This is an increased measure of safety for the baby and comfort for the parents.
Napping outside in rain or shine
Whether it’s raining or nippy outside, babies still slumber outdoors. Most of the time, their strollers are covered and there’s a baby monitor in the stroller so parents can keep a close eye on their babies.
“Babies here don’t get kidnapped because no one wants the responsibility of someone else’s kid, especially when our healthcare system does everything they can to help everyone who wants a baby to have their own at little to no cost,” says the Danish mother of four.
Danish and Scandinavian countries may be on to something because according to the World Happiness Report, these countries are among the happiest in the world. Citizens generally have more trust for each other and the crime rates are lower.
Would you try putting your baby to nap outside? What do you think of this way of life? Comment below!
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