At Little Acorns Nursery in Hindley Green, we’re embracing Hygge (pronounced “Hue-gah”), which is becoming very popular around the globe. But what is Hygge and why are we embracing it? This article explains everything and you’ll soon see why Hygge is a very good thing for everyone at the nursery, including both children and staff. Take a look …

What is Hygge?

The word Hygge is a Danish word, although is also used in the Norwegian language to refer to the same thing. It describes a feeling, mood and lifestyle of cosiness, wellbeing and contentment. It’s also about a lifestyle that’s more simple, where you live more in the moment and are closer to nature. Hygge has been described as resulting in “comfortable conviviality” i.e. friendliness and warmth that makes everyone feel welcome and happy. It’s also been described as “the pursuit of everyday happiness … basically like a hug, just without the physical touch.”

What Does a Hygge Lifestyle Look Like?

To understand Hygge more, it may help to know what it looks like. So, with a Hygge lifestyle, you would expect to see a particularly warm and cosy kind of environment. Rooms that embrace Hygge have a lovely homely feel about them with blankets, cushions, rugs and soft furnishings that make the atmosphere warm and reduce noise and echoes. There will be twinkly ‘mood’ lighting instead of harsh fluorescent lighting. Rooms will have real plants that bring nature indoors, natural materials and objects like wood, wicker, pine cones and pebbles. There will be calming music and perhaps even scent in the air. There will be cosy corners, dens and even teepees where children can ‘nest’ while they read, play or converse. Hygge gives a room a lovely atmosphere, often with flickering candles (or, at the nursery, the warm-coloured LED equivalents, for safety purposes).

What Does Hygge Feel Like?

The Hygge lifestyle is a very pleasant, comfy and pleasurable one. It’s as much about warmth, cosiness and friendliness as it is about harmony, togetherness, sharing, equality and mutual respect. As such, it minimises conflict and leads to calmness and harmonious play. It’s also about living in the moment (‘presence’) with aspects of mindfulness. Hygge also encourages individuals to reflect on things they can be grateful for. All in all it’s a very pleasurable atmosphere and approach to daily life.

Why Embrace Hygge at Our Early Years Childcare Setting?

Embracing all these aspects of Hygge will make children feel really at home, safe, relaxed, cosy and content. Their day will …