1. The Trust Gap
Nordic countries (Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, Finland) dominate global safety rankings, with Iceland at #1 and Denmark close behind. The UK, ranking 37th in the Global Peace Index, reflects a societal trust deficit that shapes parenting styles.
2. Embracing Calculated Risks
Inspired by Viking parenting principles, I tested a small act of independence: letting my older children walk home from school alone (with a halfway meeting point). Key observations:
- Their confidence grew as they navigated the route themselves.
- No phones were needed—they knew to ask a trusted adult for help if required.
- My anxiety proved worse than the actual risk.
3. The Smartphone Exception
While adopting Nordic-style independence, I draw the line at smartphones. Research links early phone use to decreased self-esteem and attention spans—a tradeoff not worth making, even if Danish children commonly own phones by age 9.
4. The Lesson: Sisu Parenting
The Finnish concept of sisu (resilience) applies perfectly here. Letting go is uncomfortable, but the payoff—children who feel capable and parents who feel liberated—is transformative.
