"There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing."

Norwegians live by the saying, "Det finnes ikke dårlig vær, bare dårlige klær," which means, "There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing." It perfectly captures the Norwegian spirit of conquering the elements. Rain, wind, or frosty snow? We don't let that stop us! We firmly believe that with the right clothing and gear, everyone can enjoy the great outdoors, no matter what the weather throws at us.

In Norway, we take our commitment to outdoor living to heart, especially when it comes to our children. We have wholeheartedly embraced the outdoor education movement, recognizing the importance of spending time outside for learning and overall well-being. That's why children in Norwegian kindergartens and schools spend a significant part of their day engaged in outdoor activities, exploring nature, and playing, regardless of the weather conditions.

Health Benefits of Norway's Outdoor Focus:

1. A Robust Immune System: By allowing our children to experience different weather conditions, we challenge and strengthen their immune systems. The exposure to cold weather, for instance, boosts their resilience and reduces the risk of common illnesses.
2. Energized Physical Fitness: Outdoor play provides our children with ample opportunities to move, run, jump, and play freely. Whether it's building snowmen, splashing in puddles, or racing through the playground, being outside promotes an active lifestyle and contributes to their physical fitness.
3. Nurtured Mental Well-being: Nature has an extraordinary ability to nurture our mental health. The fresh air, green surroundings, and natural light have a calming effect, reducing stress and anxiety. Outdoor playtime encourages creativity, problem-solving, and fuels our children's imagination.
4. Vitamin D Delight: Sunlight exposure, even on cloudy days, is crucial for the body's production of vitamin D. Ensuring that our children spend time outside guarantees they receive an adequate dose of this vital nutrient, promoting healthy bone development and overall well-being.

While I take immense pride in Norway's emphasis on outdoor time for children, this philosophy is not exclusive to us. No matter where we are in the world, we can all embrace the magic of nature and let our children thrive outdoors.

Tips for Embracing the Outdoors:

1. Dress for Success: Invest in high-quality, weather-appropriate clothing, such as our cozy and durable merino wool garments, to keep your little ones warm and comfortable.
2. Make It Fun: Plan exciting outdoor adventures, treasure hunts, or nature-inspired activities that make the experience enjoyable for children of all ages.
3. Lead by Example: Show your kids that you love being outside too! Engage in family activities like hiking, biking, or simply exploring the local park together.
4. Create Outdoor Rituals: Establish a daily or weekly outdoor ritual, such as taking a nature walk or having a picnic, to make outdoor time a regular part of your family's routine.

So, let's all take inspiration from the Norwegian way of life and open our arms to the great outdoors. Remember, there's no such thing as bad weather when you have the right clothing and a playful spirit!

- Jenny