People In Nordic Countries Leave Their Babies Outside To Sleep In Freezing Cold: Know Why

Imagine leaving your baby outside in the cold, unattended, while you enjoy a cup of coffee sitting in the warmth and comfort of your home. Doesn’t seem like a good idea? Well, people in Nordic countries like Norway have been doing it for quite some time now and the reason will surprise you. 

In Nordic countries like Norway and Sweden, where the temperature goes below zero degrees in winter, you will often see strollers lined up in the open, and if you look closer, you will realize that these are not empty. In fact, you might even see strollers with babies outside coffee shops while the parents are taking a coffee break. In India, such a site can be really concerning, however, it's no big deal for Nordic people because they are doing it for a reason. 

This trend gained a lot of attention after a Tiktoker posted a video online. Many people expressed their concern regarding the safety of the babies, however, the Tiktoker shared the reason behind the trend by asking the people why they do it. They did it to improve their baby’s breathing and make them more independent. It was due to this reason that people in Norway left their home so early, as compared to other countries. 

A research published by the Portobello Institute suggests that sleeping outside can help to improve sleep patterns. Also, the exposure to recycled air can increase the risks of developing flu and other infections. Being surrounded by nature gives children a sense of calm. 

The practice is not new at all and is based on the “friluftsliv” philosophy, which means ‘living in the free air’. Nordic people have been doing it for years. In 2013, BBC reported that sleeping outside, irrespective of the weather, helps to expose the children to fresh air, making them less susceptible to cough and cold. Sleeping outside can also aid the child’s overall development and support their social and emotional well-being. 

Many parents backed the trend saying that their children slept better and longer outdoors and if you think that it can’t be done in -5°C, some do it in temperatures below -30°C. They follow the practice so religiously that even daycares leave the babies out in the cold to take a nap. 

(Note: This blog does not promote the idea of leaving babies outside in the cold without any supervision. If you plan on trying this, make sure you consult your child’s paediatrician before doing so.”