Hygge in a Small Setting Case Study

Bringing Hygge into Happy Hearts Home: Creating a cosy and nurturing environment for young children.

When I first discovered the concept of hygge, I felt an instant connection. The idea of creating a calm, comforting space full of warmth and belonging aligned so closely with how I wanted children to feel in my care. As a childminder, I’ve always aimed to provide a home from home environment, but a hygge approach helped me to take this to a deeper level. It encouraged me to slow down, simplify and truly tune in to what children need to feel safe, nurtured and grounded.

In early childhood, emotional security lays the foundation for all learning and development. When children feel calm, connected and safe they are more able to explore, play and build positive relationships. I’ve come to realise that setting doesn’t need to be filled with noise, colour, or constant activity to be stimulating. Sometimes, the most powerful learning happens in stillness, in moments of shared warmth, unhurried play, or quiet refletion.

How I implemented hygge

One of the first changes I made was to the physical environment. I swapped out bright, overheads lights for softer options – lamps and fairy lights, and introduced more natural materials into the setting. Wooden toys, wicker baskets, and cosy rugs replaced plastic and primary colours. I created quiet, cosy corner where children could curl up with a book, lie down with a blanket or simple have a moment of calm. The colour scheme in my setting moved to more neutral, earthy tones, which instantly made the space feel more restful and welcoming.

Before photos

Hygge encouraged me to slow down and be more intentional with our daily routine. Rather than rushing from one activity to another we now follow a gentle rhythm that allows for flexibility and choice. Our days are child-led, giving space for deeper play and meaningful engagement. I noticed that by simplifying our routines, I’ve become more present in each moment with children.

Transitions became softer too; tidy up time includes a song, and we take a moment to reflect before moving from one part of the day to the next. It’s all about making the day feel seamless, calm and connected.

Connection is at the heart of hygge, so I looked for ways to create more meaningful, shared experiences. Mealtimes became an opportunity to sit together around the table with real plates and cups, having conversations and sharing food in a relaxed atmosphere.

We also introduced little traditions; lighting a candle (battery operated for safety!) during snack time in winter, celebrating seasonal changes with nature inspired crafts, and reading the same comforting stories together on rainy days. These rituals help children feel rooted and valued. This approach has reminded me that the simplest experiences, like sharing a warm dring or watching a rain can be the most meaningful.

Nature plays a big part in creating a hygge inspired atmosphere. We spend time outdoors everyday, whatever the weather, whether it’s splashing in puddles, collecting autumn leaves, or simply feeling the wind on our faces. These experiences help children connect with the world around them and find joy in the simple things.

Inside, we we bring nature in too. Our table often holds a collection of seasonal treasures; conkers, feathers, pebbles, and the children love adding to it. We care for plants together and use natural materials in our play and crafts whenever possible.

Hygge is a sensory experience, and I’ve found that appealing to the senses help children feel calm and content. We use scented playdough, diffuser is on with calming essential oils, and calming background music or nature sounds during quiet play. In colder months we enjoy warm milk or fruit tea during snack time, served in little cups to make the moment feel special.
These small touches create a sense of warmth and security that the children and I really appreciate.

Since embracing hygge in my setting. I’ve noticed real changes. The children seem more relaxed and engaged. They settle more quickly and spend longer periods in deep, imaginative play. There is a stronger sense of connection, not just between me and the children but between children themselves.
For me personally, it’s made my work even more rewarding. I feel more in tune with the children, less rushed, and more present. The atmosphere is calmer, and there is real sense of shared joy in our days.

Hygge has brought joy, simplicity and warmth into my childminding setting. It’s helped me re-centre my practice around what truly matters: connection, calmand emotional wellbeing. You don’t need to spend lots of money or completely redisign your setting to embrace this approach. Often it’s little things, shared stories, soft lighting, a warm drink, time in nature, that makes the biggest difference.

I’m proud to now reflect the values of the Hygge in the Early Years approach in my every day practice, and I look forward to continuing this journey with the children in my care.

After Photos