SCANDI-MININMALISM – A TREND THAT MAKING HEADLINES IN THE U.S
(and for good reason!)
There’s no question that childhood today is very different that the world we grew up in as parents. Living in a place where we can have all things at any given time believe it or not has been proven to cause anxiety, stress and an overall unhealthy lifestyle. This also has the same overwhelming effects on kids too.
At Huckleberry we strongly believe in the Scandinavian concept of “Lagom”. Translated as “just the right amount” it’s the Scandinavian concept of living a life of balance and moderation. It’s a way to live a simpler, fairer, less-complicated and more contented life. This lifestyle does wonders for children, too. Check out the benefits…
WHY SIMPLE LIVING MAKES KIDS HAPPY
Encourages kids to let their imagination GROW WILD.
Having less toys and “things” in a kid’s room allows for more independent and creative play. Kids have a natural gift of coming up with incredible play scenarios completely on their own – without all of the noisy toys. You will not believe what kind of play this simple Bear Rug can conjure up! Or hand them a Puppet and sit back and watch the show.
Promotes Positive Social Skills
With less toys there are more opportunities for sharing and positive communication. When kids are not distracted by technology they actually enjoy working through social situations with their friends.
Lowers Stress Level
Having lots of toys can cause a cluttered room. We know that a clean and organized room with shelves and bins can lower anxiety and stress.
TIPS & TRICKS ON HOW TO BRING “LAGOM” INTO YOUR HOME
1. BUY WELL, BUY LESS
We choose to fill our home with things we love, things that are beautiful, and things that are necessary. It’s one of the concepts that we live by at Huckleberry and the reason we have a tapered assortment of products. We source the highest quality, longest lasting non-toxic & Eco-conscious products so you don’t have to replace them. Our beds can truly stand the test of time from toddler to teen.
2. CHOOSE SIMPLE, CALMING COLORS
This is one of the defining qualities of Danish Design. And the other bonus it that your kids won’t get tired of their room if the main pieces like their bed and desk are in simple neutrals. You can easily add pops of color with bedding, pillows or wall art.
3. CATEGORIZE AND ORGANIZE TOYS & BOOKS
A clean and organized room makes for a calm environment perfect for sleep or creative play. Plenty of cabinets and shelves make it easy for your kids to toss their stuff into the bins. You can also label each bin by category, using picture labels if your child can’t yet read.
4. PLAY OUTDOORS
Playing outdoors offers children ample opportunity to exercise, learn respect for the environment, and appreciate natural beauty.
5. SCHEDULE SOME TIME FOR REST
Plan a day to have NOTHING PLANNED. How is that for ironic?! But seriously, a day with your family without any agenda, to-do lists or chores can make for some quality family time.
Let us know what you and your family like to do to enjoy your time together and live a simple life!
Here are some other resources we found to be helpful in our research of encouraging your kids to embrace Lagom:
Jessica Doll, mom blogger from Hej Doll has some great advice for how to talk your kids through letting go of things they don’t need.
Allie Casazza also shares some reasons why simplifying your lifestyle can have such a positive impact on your kids.