It's a trend that started in Scandinavia and is now gaining popularity in the Netherlands too: letting your children sleep outdoors. A number of childcare locations also offer this. But what do we know about the effects of outdoor sleeping?
Scandinavian tradition
About a century ago, they started doing it in Finland, Sweden, Norway and Iceland. The idea was that, due to the extremely low temperatures that can occur in these countries and the fresh air, babies would build a strong immune system and get sick less easily. Additionally, it was believed that sleep quality was better than indoors thanks to the air and calming sounds of nature. A baby was simply dressed warmly and placed outside in the pram, where they could sleep for a few hours. However, this was already happening in the Netherlands as well, particularly in the north. Small baby houses were also built here, which were covered on top and let in enough light and fresh air.
Limited research
Still, very little research has been done so far on the effects of outdoor sleeping, which means there is also little information available. However, there are some research findings that offer some guidance.
Finnish research
A study from Northern Finland shows that improved sleep quality and longer sleep duration are possible positive effects of outdoor sleeping. This is optimal when the cooling rate is low. Additionally, it is very important that children are dressed appropriately for the weather. Improvement was only seen when babies were dressed for the outdoor temperature. If temperatures are extreme or the clothing is not suitable, there is a risk of negative effects on the child's health, just as with air pollution.
Application in the Netherlands
It is quite possible that we have the same benefits in the Netherlands, but the research is not easily applicable to another country. No research has yet been done on the effects in the Dutch climate and on the places used for sleeping here, such as the difference between an outdoor crib and a pram. Still, it seems that there are positive effects on sleep quality and length, as long as children are well wrapped in clothing and a blanket.
How do childcare locations approach outdoor sleeping?
At childcare, you can sometimes also choose outdoor sleeping. Locations that offer this usually work with a fixed routine. Children are taken outside after lunch, to a special outdoor sleeping area or in screened-off playpens on the terrace. There is always someone nearby, sometimes connected to indoors via a baby monitor or camera. In cold weather, they use sleeping bags, hats and blankets suitable for the temperature. In rain or storm, sleeping moves indoors. What you want to know as a parent: how is the temperature monitored? What happens when a child wakes up? And how is communication with parents arranged if something deviates? Some locations work with a written protocol, others rely on the team's experience. Feel free to ask about it during a tour.
What should parents pay attention to?
If you want to let your child sleep outside, you should always keep a close eye on things. Research shows that in the first weeks, a child simply wants to be with their parents, making outdoor sleeping not advisable. Additionally, parents should stay close to the baby for the first six months, in case something happens. It's also best not to lay the baby in full sun and certainly not in the rain, although it's fine if they are in an outdoor sleeping house in such weather.
Want to know which childcare locations near you offer outdoor sleeping? Compare locations on kiddie.nl and filter for the facilities that matter to you. For each location, you'll also find the Municipal Health Service (GGD) inspection report, so you can assess safety and quality yourself before booking a tour.