Hygge in the Early Years

A New Chapter, Slower Beginnings and Friluftsliv September brings so many new beginnings. For children starting school, families adjusting to new routines, and educators welcoming a new group, this time of year can feel exciting, emotional and incredibly full. In this episode, Kimberly reflects on her own little Wildling starting Reception and what the experience has reminded her about childhood, belonging, wellbeing and the importance of resisting the pressure to always do more. She explores why children may need less stimulation, fewer demands and more time to simply come home, play, rest and reconnect after a busy school day. Kimberly also reflects on the role of early years educators during those first important weeks of Reception. Rather than rushing into phonics, assessments and perfectly prepared environments, she encourages educators to focus first on relationships, trust and helping every child feel that they belong. A simple summer scrapbook becomes a powerful reminder of what really matters to young children. While big adventures can feel memorable to adults, children often place the greatest value on the people, pets, places and ordinary moments that make up their everyday world. The episode also introduces the Norwegian concept of friluftsliv — open-air living — and considers how spending time outdoors can support both children’s and adults’ wellbeing. Friluftsliv doesn’t have to mean climbing mountains or planning elaborate outdoor experiences. It might simply mean taking your coffee into the garden, walking beneath the trees after school, noticing the changing leaves or allowing children to linger over the discovery of a snail. In this episode, we explore: Supporting children through the transition into Reception Why children may need less rather than more after school Creating a calm and familiar rhythm at home Why relationships should come before assessment Helping children feel safe, known and valued The importance of ordinary childhood moments Why home, family and belonging matter so deeply The Norwegian concept of friluftsliv Simple ways to bring more outdoor time into everyday life Supporting educator wellbeing during a demanding September Slowing down and resisting the pressure to constantly move onto the next thing Questions to reflect on How are you making those first weeks in Reception so irresistible that children genuinely want to come back each day? What are you doing to help the children in your care understand that you are one of their safe people? And finally… Have you had your daily dose of sunshine? Not necessarily sunshine in the literal sense, but fresh air, nature and a moment to reconnect with the world outside. This week, choose one small way to bring more friluftsliv into your life. Take your tea outside. Walk for ten minutes after work. Hold a conversation beneath the trees. Let the children linger. Notice the changing season. Because new chapters don’t always need to begin with dramatic change. Sometimes they begin with one slower afternoon, one deep breath and one walk beneath the trees. Childhood isn’t a race. And neither is life. About Hygge in the Early Years Hygge in the Early Years is an international community supporting early years educators to create calmer, more connected and intentional approaches to childhood and education, inspired by Nordic ways of living and teaching well. Through training, resources and professional development, Kimberly helps educators slow down, prioritise relationships and create environments where both children and adults can thrive.