Last winter, my American friend traveled with her family to Copenhagen for a holiday. When she returned, she told me about her initial shock at seeing unattended baby strollers with babies in them lined up on sidewalks outside cafés and restaurants while their parents were inside eating.
Yes, it is true. A daily nap outside is a common part of the daily routine for babies and toddlers throughout Scandinavia, even when temperatures reach as low as 20º F.
All year round daycares take the children outside to nap. And, at home, parents put their babies in the garden, on the balcony or porch for their nap. So if you visit anywhere in Scandinavia, this will be a very common sight:
Scandinavian parents say their children get sick less and sleep longer when they nap outdoors because the air outside is clean and fresh. Public places are often thick with germs from other people.
What's the secret? They dress their little ones in next to skin merino wool base layers, as well as mid layers, a down sleeping bag and usually a sheepskin at the bottom of the stroller.
Fine merino wool is super soft on sensitive skin and not only will it keep little ones very warm but it is also:
- Eco-Friendly
- Moisture-Regulating
- Odor-Resistant
- Naturally Flame Retardant
- Machine Washable
- Can absorb 1/3 of its own weight in water before it feels wet.
Take a look at some of the new Ella’s Wool Fine Merino Wool Base Layers for babies that we have in stock:
Photo: Amelia Mayer
It's time we follow the Scandinavian lead and get our little ones into the same soft merino base layers for winter play and outside naps...only, of course, if you are right there beside them.
Check out our collection!