Norway has a distinctive and highly effective approach to raising confident, independent, and healthy children. A significant portion of the country’s kindergartens are based on an outdoor model, where children spend most of their time in forests, open fields, and nature reserves. These outdoor schools, a unique feature of Norwegian early childhood education, expose children to the elements year-round, whether under the bright sun, through the rain, or amidst the winter snow.

This outdoor philosophy stems from friluftsliv, a longstanding Norwegian belief that spending time outdoors fosters resilience, independence, and robust health. Friluftsliv—which translates to "open-air living"—is a core part of Norwegian culture and plays a central role in child development. Educators in these schools consider the forest to be the ultimate classroom, where children learn through immersive experiences. They engage in activities such as climbing trees, following animal tracks, building shelters, and exploring the vast biodiversity of plants and insects. In these natural environments, they develop essential life skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience, all while having fun and connecting with their surroundings.

Despite the cold, wet, and sometimes challenging weather conditions, the children rarely stay indoors unless faced with extreme weather conditions, such as dangerous storms or very cold temperatures. Norwegian winters are harsh, but they are not seen as an obstacle. With warm layers of clothing and sturdy boots, children spend an impressive four to six hours outdoors daily, even during the dark, colder months. These outdoor experiences are woven into their daily routines and contribute to a healthy lifestyle that teaches them how to enjoy and thrive in nature.

Research supports the remarkable benefits of nature-based learning. Studies have shown that children who participate in outdoor programs have better motor skills, engage in more physical activity, experience healthier stress levels, and show stronger focus and concentration. Furthermore, they demonstrate more confidence when it comes to taking calculated risks, as they learn to navigate challenges in the natural world. In fact, some Norwegian parents even allow their babies to nap outside in the cold air, believing it contributes to better sleep and strengthens their immune systems. This practice highlights the trust in nature’s ability to nurture well-being.

In contrast to the increasingly indoor and digital nature of modern childhood, where children spend more time with screens than in the open air, Norway’s year-round forest schooling offers a compelling reminder of the power of nature as an educator. By prioritizing time spent outside, Norwegian children are developing vital life skills that will serve them well into adulthood. This outdoor model is not just about play; it’s about cultivating a deep respect for the natural world while building a foundation of physical, emotional, and social well-being.