In Nordic countries, the tradition of infants napping outdoors in cold weather has persisted since its inception in the 1940s, initially aimed at improving infant health. Research suggests that outdoor napping may enhance immunity and sleep quality, as cold exposure can reduce infections and promote restful sleep. While this practice is gaining traction in some places, safety concerns about supervision and temperature management remain critical, emphasizing the need for proper clothing and monitoring to ensure a safe experience.
The Nordic Nap: A Cultural Tradition for Infants
In the Nordic nations, including Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland, it’s a familiar sight to see infants snugly wrapped in their strollers, often resting on shop terraces or balconies. This intriguing custom, which has its roots in Finland and Sweden dating back to 1940, was initially introduced to address the high infant mortality rates and poor indoor air quality. Today, the practice—often referred to as the Nordic nap—continues to thrive, as many believe it enhances sleep quality and fortifies babies’ immune systems. But what does the research say about this practice?
The Advantages of Outdoor Napping for Infants
Could spending time in the cold air actually lead to healthier children? Dr. Susanna Sober, a metabolism researcher and author of *The Extraordinary Powers of Cold*, strongly believes so. In an interview with *20 Minutes*, she points out that cold exposure significantly enhances immune responses, leading to fewer infections. This notion is supported by Mickaël Sage, a physiology specialist, who states on Radio Canada that children who nap outside appear to have a reduced incidence of colds, as outdoor environments lower the transmission of germs.
Additionally, the cold has a calming effect that may aid in better sleep for babies. Cardiologist Dr. Frédéric Saldmann elaborates in *20 Minutes* that cooler temperatures can trigger sleep by impacting certain areas of the brain, effectively slowing mental activity and inducing a state of rest.
Safety Considerations for Outdoor Napping
As a parent, you might have concerns about allowing your child to nap outdoors. Some medical experts share these apprehensions. Dr. Jennifer Shu, a pediatrician from Atlanta, emphasizes the importance of supervision, noting that parents should always be close by. “What worries me is the supervision. If parents are not nearby, they won’t know if a baby has stopped breathing,” she warns in *Business Insider*.
Research from Finnish scientist Marjo Tourula at the University of Oulu suggests that the best temperature for a baby’s outdoor nap is around -5°C, as reported by *Géo*. However, vigilance is crucial, as babies are more susceptible to hypothermia; their body temperature can drop four times faster than that of adults. Therefore, monitoring the temperature is vital when your child is sleeping outside, preferably with a thermometer.
Ensuring a Safe Nordic Nap Experience
While this practice remains relatively unfamiliar in France, some daycare centers have begun to adopt the Nordic nap with parental approval. As the saying goes in Scandinavia, “There is no bad weather, only bad clothing!” If you’re considering introducing your child to this outdoor napping tradition, it’s essential to ensure they are adequately dressed. Make sure they are bundled in multiple layers of wool, and don’t forget to protect their extremities with a hat and mittens. Adding sheepskin blankets, as practiced in Nordic regions, can also provide extra warmth and comfort.