Hygge for kids: 10 amazing ways to hygge as a family

Do you know the term “family hygge” and are you wondering how to get started with hygge for kids?

You’ve probably seen this little Danish word in an article or two. The idea of hygge has become pretty popular recently and with good reason.

As a Dane, hygge is part of my daily life and routine. It’s something I always have in mind when tucking my kids in at night, cooking, working – in any situation, really. I always think about how I can make it hyggeligt.

One of my favorite ways to hygge is with my family. We call it familiehygge (family hygge) in Danish. Today, I’ll be sharing some good ideas on how to do just that.

Hygge for kids

What’s the definition of hygge?

If you’re new to hygge, let me just quickly explain what it’s about.

Pronounced hoo-guh, hygge is an atmosphere, a feeling of contentment or well-being, and a mindset to be present and appreciate the little things in life.

Hygge is centered around cozy activities, but it’s also a mental state of well-being and relaxation. It’s a mindset.

When we hygge, we make a conscious decision to find joy in the simple things.

For example, when I cook, I put some music on, or when I tuck in my 3-year-old, I shut the lights, except for a small lit lamp.

Sometimes we also read a bedside story inside his play tent with a little flashlight.

Read next: What is Nordic hygge?

What does hygge feel like?

Hygge feels like:

♥ A hug after a long day
♥ A warm drink when it’s cold outside
♥ Waking up at 6 am and realizing it’s weekend
♥ Snuggling in bed till after 9 am
♥ Not worrying about anything
♥ Safety and belonging. It feels like home.

Read next: How to get started with hygge today

What is family hygge?

Kids in Denmark grow up with hygge. They learn how to hygge from early on because it’s seen as an essential part of a good life.

When you hygge as a family, you spend time together. And more importantly – you connect. Even if it’s just a few minutes, it’s still worth it. It just takes awareness and presence.

Hygge is about quality, not quantity. Even 20 minutes makes a huge difference.

Hygge is a personal and individual thing, and what makes you happy might not be the same for someone else. The goal, however, is to spend time with your family, so put away your phone and laptop so you can be present.

There are tons of ways to do hygge as a family, but here are some of the easiest ways if you have babies, toddlers, or preschoolers.

10 examples of hygge for kids

1. Cook together

I cook with Theo every day. He helps with whatever he can – stirring, adding ingredients, pushing the buttons, and tasting of course!

While we cook, I ask him to smell the spices. He’s only three, but he can already see when the lasagna has had enough and what oregano and cinnamon smell like.

Bonding or connecting when cooking is a great way to hygge as a family. So, invite your children to join in the cooking and have quality time together. Depending on how old your kids are, let everyone have a role to play – chopping, slicing, stirring, and tasting.

2. Backyard dinner

To add to the hygge, why not eat outside?

One of my fondest memories as a child is when my mom would set the outside dinner table during summer.

Having dinner with the family, while listening to the birds chirping and enjoying the warm breeze while you talk about how everyone’s day went. Now, that’s family hygge!

3. Go for a day trip

This summer, we went on quite a few day trips with my parents and Thomas’ mom.

It’s fun for the whole family because you get to experience something new. And you spend time together.

On the last trip, before I had Toby, we went to Fur Island. I made lunch for us, just some sandwiches in a picnic basket. My mom and dad brought some folding chairs and a table, some snacks, and soda. It was super hygge.

4. Go on a recycling scavenger hunt

We need to keep our distance from others, but we still like to go outside and get some fresh air. A great way to spend family time is to go for a walk and collect garbage.

Try to bring a garbage bag and some disposable gloves and pick up the garbage you find on your way. This way, you help clean up the environment and make the world a little bit better.

5. Read out loud

Who doesn’t enjoy reading aloud ♥

Let your child choose a book you should read aloud. Even older children enjoy reading aloud – especially if you add snacks or a hot cup of cocoa.

If there are more children, you can let the older ones read to the little ones – it adds to the hygge factor.

6. Spend time with grandparents

We all have different day rhythms and busy schedules. But making time to call and visit the grandparents is time well spent.

Find an hour or two that fits everyone. Have breakfast, lunch or dinner together – it’s great family hygge. You have to eat anyway, so why not do it with your family?

Remember to call the grandparents, especially if they’re alone.

7. Stop dance

Family hygge is not just about snuggling on the couch. When it comes to kids, they love to be active.

Try stop dance: You can take turns choosing music so that the children also have the opportunity to hear the music you enjoyed dancing to as a child.

One controls the music, the others dance, and when the music stops, everyone has to stand completely still. If you move, you are out of the game. The last one on the dance floor is the winner.

8. Jigsaw puzzle

Another fun family activity is puzzles. Use a small one if you have toddlers. For pre-schoolers, 100 pieces are challenging but possible.

How to succeed:

• Start with the edges
• Sort the pieces by motifs – e.g. pieces with buildings, water, sky, grass, or people
• Let everyone have an area – mom takes the buildings, kids take the sky or grass
• Put on some relaxing music – maybe you can make waffles when you are done?

9. Watch a movie together

This is one of my favorites. Snuggle on the couch with a warm blanket and put on a good movie. No phones. Kids will know when you’re not present and it ruins the family hygge.

10. Snobrød and bonfires

Do you have a grill or a campfire site nearby? Then you can make Danish snobrød (campfire bread).

Making the dough is easy and fun for the kids. While it rises, find some good sticks and make a fire.

FAQ – Hygge for kids and family

What is the hygge approach to early years?

The hygge approach in the early years is really about making things cozy and comfortable for kids.

It’s about creating a warm, loving environment where they feel safe and happy. This method emphasizes spending quality time together, enjoying simple activities, and ensuring that kids feel secure and cared for.

It’s all about a chill, homey vibe that helps children feel at ease.

What is the principle of hygge in Denmark?

The principle of hygge in Denmark is centered around creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere and enjoying life’s simple pleasures, often in the company of loved ones.

It’s about embracing a cozy, relaxed way of living that prioritizes comfort, togetherness, and well-being.

Danes use hygge as a way to foster a sense of community, contentment, and happiness in their daily lives, finding joy in the ordinary and appreciating the moment.

Is hygge a lifestyle trend or self-help?

Hygge is more of a lifestyle trend than self-help. It’s a Danish concept that focuses on creating a cozy, contented, and comfortable atmosphere in everyday life.

It’s about appreciating the simple joys, fostering togetherness, and finding warmth in small moments.

While it can positively impact well-being, it’s not specifically a self-help method but rather a cultural approach to living well.

What is a Danish family time?

Danish family time is often centered around quality, cozy moments together.

It typically involves simple activities like enjoying meals, outdoor activities, or relaxing at home. Emphasis is on togetherness, comfort, and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.

This aligns with the Danish concept of hygge, where the focus is on appreciating the simple pleasures in life with loved ones.

More posts about hygge you might like

• What is Nordic hygge? Learn it from a Dane
• How to get started with hygge today (by a Dane)
• 10 tips to create a hygge morning routine
• 20 hygge quotes that will inspire you to live a happier life
• 24 Danish ways to create Christmas hygge

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