5 Parenting Ideas We Can Take from Sweden

When it comes to raising happy, healthy children, Sweden often tops the list of countries with enviable parenting practices. According to the World Happiness Report , Sweden consistently ranks among the top 10 happiest countries in the world. This ranking reflects the high quality of life, including strong social support systems, a healthy work-life balance, and a focus on well-being, all of which contribute to a positive environment for raising children.

 From their progressive approach to work-life balance to their focus on outdoor play, Swedish parents have some valuable lessons to share and that we can all benefit from.

Here’s my take on five parenting ideas we can all learn from Sweden.

In Sweden, outdoor play isn’t just encouraged—it’s a way of life. Swedish parents believe that fresh air and nature are essential for a child’s development. Children are often seen playing outside, rain or shine, as part of their daily routine.

This reminds me of the time when I let my kids play in the rain, and they had the best day ever! Encouraging outdoor play helps children develop physically, boosts their creativity, and fosters a love for nature.

In Sweden, winters can be long and chilly, with temperatures often dipping well below freezing, especially in the northern regions. Despite the cold, Swedish families embrace outdoor activities during the winter months. Instead of retreating indoors, they take advantage of the snowy landscape to engage in fun and healthy pursuits. Common activities include sledding , ice skating on frozen lakes, and skiing —both downhill and cross-country. Swedish children are also known to play in the snow, building forts, having snowball fights, and even taking part in friluftsliv (a love of outdoor life), which involves spending time in nature regardless of the weather. This focus on outdoor play, even in winter, is a testament to the Swedish belief that there’s no bad weather, only inappropriate clothing!

The Swedish word lagom means “just the right amount,” and it’s a concept that permeates Swedish parenting. Rather than striving for perfection or overindulging, Swedish parents focus on balance and moderation in all aspects of life. This applies to everything from screen time to activities, teaching kids to appreciate what they have without excess.

Honestly, I’m not sure about always having “more” when “enough” can bring so much more contentment.

Swedish parents encourage their children to be independent from a young age. This includes allowing them to make decisions, take on responsibilities, and even walk to school alone when they’re ready. While this might seem daunting, it helps build confidence and self-reliance in children.

You can introduce elements of Swedish parenting by encouraging your child's independence in everyday activities. Let them choose their own outfits, even if the choices are a bit mismatched—this boosts their decision-making skills and confidence. Involve them in household tasks like setting the table or sorting laundry to foster a sense of responsibility. Encouraging solo play also helps them develop creativity and self-reliance, allowing them to explore and learn at their own pace. 

One of the most impressive aspects of Swedish parenting is the country’s generous parental leave policies. Parents are entitled to 480 days of paid leave, which can be shared between both parents. This approach allows for a more balanced distribution of childcare responsibilities and strengthens the bond between both parents and their children.

In Sweden, education isn’t just about academics; it’s about nurturing a lifelong love for learning. Swedish schools emphasize creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration over rote memorization. Between you and me, this is something I’d love to see more of in other educational systems.

Encouraging children to explore their interests and learn at their own pace fosters a genuine curiosity about the world.

At 7 years old, Swedish children begin grundskola (primary school), where formal education officially starts. However, the approach remains highly child-centered, focusing on fostering creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. The curriculum covers reading, writing, math, science, and social studies, but learning is often interactive and project-based, with a strong emphasis on outdoor activities and physical education.

Swedish parenting offers a refreshing perspective on raising children in a way that promotes balance, independence, and a deep connection with nature. While every family is different, and not all practices will fit every lifestyle, there’s certainly a lot we can learn from Sweden’s approach to parenting.

Whether it’s prioritizing outdoor play or embracing the concept of lagom , these ideas can help create a more balanced, joyful environment for both parents and children.