Why We are Inspired by Scandinavia:  A Better Way to Care for Children

Written By Taylor Payne

At Hygge Kinder House, opening in downtown Boise in Fall 2025, our name says a lot about who we are. Hygge (pronounced HOO-gah) is a Danish word that doesn’t have a perfect English translation, but it captures the feeling of warmth, coziness, connection, and contentment. That’s exactly what we want children, families, and staff to feel when they walk through our doors: like they’ve entered a home away from home.

Our inspiration comes from the way Scandinavian countries care for children—not just in their childcare centers, but in their culture, values, and daily rhythms. Here’s why we’ve chosen to model our center on this beautiful approach.

Childhood Is Respected as a Sacred Season

In countries like Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, early childhood isn’t treated like a race to adulthood. Instead, it’s seen as a time for play, wonder, and connection. There’s less pressure for young children to meet rigid academic milestones, and more emphasis on nurturing the whole child—socially, emotionally, and physically. That philosophy resonates deeply with us.

At Hygge Kinder House, we prioritize joy over worksheets, relationships over routines, and curiosity over compliance. We believe that children thrive when they feel safe, seen, and supported—just like they would in a loving home.

Play Is Serious Business

Scandinavian childcare centers are famously play-based—and not just because it’s fun (although it is!). It enhances brain development (Ginsburg, 2007), supports physical health (Timmons et al., 2007), strengthens problem-solving and cognitive flexibility (Whitebread et al., 2012), and fosters emotional intelligence and social skills (Bodrova & Leong, 2015). This approach, foundational to early childhood education helps children thrive in all areas of development through joyful, hands-on experiences.

You’ll see this in action at our Boise childcare center: open-ended materials, nature-based activities, storytelling, and plenty of time to explore. Children lead the way, and teachers gently guide, observe, and encourage.

Nature Is the Classroom

In Scandinavia, there’s a saying: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.” Children there spend hours outside each day, rain or shine. Why? Because fresh air, movement, and connection with nature are vital to healthy development.

We bring this philosophy into our urban setting in Boise through daily outdoor time, natural materials in the classroom, and an emphasis on seasonal rhythms and sensory experiences. Whether it’s stomping in puddles, making leaf crowns, or building with sticks, we believe nature makes the best teacher.

A Culture of Trust, Calm, and Coziness

Perhaps what stands out most about Scandinavian childcare is its calm. The pace is slower. The expectations are realistic. The environments are beautiful and uncluttered, designed to feel like a home rather than an institution.

We’re building Hygge Kinder House to reflect those same values. From our warm lighting and natural wood furniture to our intentional routines and respectful caregiving, everything is designed to support a feeling of ease and trust—for children, families, and staff alike.

Because Children Deserve the Best Start—Without the Burnout

Ultimately, we believe every child deserves a magical, meaningful early childhood. And every caregiver deserves to feel valued and supported in their work. The Scandinavian model shows us that it’s possible to do both—when we lead with empathy, simplicity, and joy.

We’re proud to bring that vision to Boise with Hygge Kinder House opening Fall 2025. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or little learner, we hope you’ll feel the difference from the moment you walk in.

Join our waitlist today at hyggekinder.org/enroll. There is no commitment, just a spot saved for your little one in their cozy home away from home. 

References:

  • Ginsburg, K. R. (2007). The Importance of Play in Promoting Healthy Child Development and Maintaining Strong Parent-Child Bonds. Pediatrics, 119(1), 182-191.

  • Timmons, B. W., Naylor, P. J., & Pfeiffer, K. A. (2007). Physical activity for preschool children—how much and how?. Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism, 32(S2E), S122-S134.

  • Whitebread, D., Basilio, M., Kuvalja, M., & Verma, M. (2012). The importance of play: A report on the value of children’s play with a series of policy recommendations. Toy Industries of Europe.

  • Bodrova, E., & Leong, D. J. (2015). Vygotskian and post-Vygotskian views on children’s play. American Journal of Play, 7(3), 371–388.

Taylor Payne