As we continue our Curiosity Approach journey, one aspect our Poppleton site is doing a big focus on is ‘Hygge’. (Hygge is a Danish word used when acknowledging a feeling or moment, ordinary or extraordinary as cosy, charming or special.)

Hygge links very closely to our feel of ‘family’ and is often a feeling our little people can translate.  It is about a space that promotes emotional well-being, togetherness and friendship.  It’s a place children, can feel comfortable to snuggle down or explore with confidence. At Muddy Boots we aim for children and our families to have this feeling from day 1. We strive for our families to feel comfortable and confident leaving their little ones, as well as knowing our children feel secure and that Muddy Boots is an extension of their home and not a formal educational setting.

Theorist Friedrich Frobel emphasized the importance of environmental design in terms of a garden: natural, organic, and ever-changing. He maintained that when care is applied to a child’s surroundings, behaviour could be guided and inspired. The simplest of spaces can become a haven of play and learning. This is supported by a quote from Anita Rui Olds – “When children feel comfortable in their physical surroundings, they will venture to explore materials or events around them.”

Some of you may of noticed some changes occurring across all the rooms but here is how we are working on bringing Hygee to Muddy Boots life (You can even take some tips for home life!)

• Creating dens or cosy corners, with the use of drapes, voiles, fairy lights and blankets. This has provided our little people with the opportunity to retreat away from the business of Muddy Boots and allow children to talk, chat and interact with their friends in a cosy, safe space.
• The set up thoughtful nooks and well-appointed retreats (This is even occurring in our garden too with our new little huts!)
• Providing a range of cushions and blankets which enable children to get cosy when reading books or engaging in provocations.
• Twinkly lights to add a sense of magic and wonder to areas within the rooms
• Lighting is soft and muted and natural light is used as much as possible
• A range of textures through rugs, blankets and cushions
• A rang of opportunities to crawl inside a baby nest or enclosed area where they feel secure.

Here at Muddy Boots we strongly believe that by focusing on Hygge will have a strong impact on our little ones and promote their well being and confidence and turn them into independent little learners.

Rachel Anderson – Muddy Boots Manager