Creating a Hygge Environment in an Early Years Setting

This article explores the benefits of hygge in early years and provides practical tips for implementing a hygge environment both in early years settings and at home.

The Benefits of Hygge in Early Years

Hygge, a Danish concept, emphasises finding well-being and contentment in the simple pleasures of everyday life. Creating a hygge environment in an early years setting can foster feelings of cosiness, happiness, and familiarity, promoting a sense of security and well-being for children. By incorporating the core elements of hygge, practitioners can create a calm and nurturing atmosphere that encourages children’s engagement, self-confidence, and positive social interactions.

The Core Elements of a Hygge Environment

To create a hygge environment, practitioners can consider Meik Wiking‘s ten core elements:

1. Atmosphere: Create a cosy and relaxing space.
2. Presence: Focus on children’s current interests and engage in the present moment.
3. Pleasure: Promote happiness and well-being through enjoyable experiences.
4. Equality: Encourage respect and equality among children and adults.
5. Togetherness: Spend quality time together as a community.
6. Gratitude: Reflect on and express gratitude for the things we appreciate.
7. Harmony: Emphasize collaborative and non-competitive play.
8. Truce: Teach conflict resolution and sharing experiences.
9. Comfort: Provide a relaxing and comfortable environment with soft furnishings.
10. Shelter: Offer a space where children can relax and feel safe.

Implementing a Hygge Environment in Early Years Settings

Incorporating a hygge environment in early years settings can be achieved through several strategies:

• Create a calm, relaxing, and warm environment with soft lighting, calming scents, and cozy corners for reflection or reading.
• Design rooms with minimal clutter to promote a relaxed learning play space.
• Focus on children’s current interests, allowing them time to explore, talk, and investigate.
• Incorporate calming music to enhance the atmosphere.
• Utilize rugs, cushions, and lamps to create a homely and comforting atmosphere.
• Emphasize the process of learning rather than the end product.

Incorporating Hygge at Home

Hygge can also be incorporated at home to promote well-being and happiness:

• Enjoy your surroundings and connect with nature by going for walks or spending time outdoors.
• Use soft lighting and create cozy areas for relaxation and family time.
• Incorporate calming scents through the use of essential oil diffusers.
• Read together to reduce stress, bond, and enhance vocabulary and comprehension.
• Take time to reflect on the day/week and appreciate each other.
• Embrace the simple pleasures in life and surround yourself with warmth and happiness.

To conclude, creating a hygge environment in early years settings promotes well-being, togetherness, and a sense of security for children. By implementing the core elements of hygge.

Written by Christina Law, Deputy Nursery Manager at Sandhills Day Nursery Wolverhampton