Hi friends and families! Here are some tips to help you enjoy nature and be active outdoors year-round, which we have learned as parents raising 5 kids in Norway. These ideas can make every adventure more comfortable, fun, and memorable.

Layer Layer Layer: Layers make it easy to stay warm and adjust to weather changes. Norwegians learn about layering at an early age – the adults help set out their layers at daycare and the kiddos learn to put on and take off their outdoor gear. They become very adept at layering their wool, fleece, outdoor layers, hats and gloves, etc. by themselves! (Our friends at Outdoor School Shop have an outstanding layering guide - check it out!)

Find the Right Gear: Investing in high-quality outerwear can make a difference. Warm layers, waterproof jackets, hats, and gloves are great for cooler months, while breathable clothing and hats are super for summer. Rain and snow boots also help everyone stay cozy on wet or cold days.

Our company developed Hedgehog Dryer, our series of high-powered dryers for sports and outdoor gear, to dry and remove odor from your shoes, gloves, boots, and gear after every adventure. It’s been a lifesaver for many families, including ours!

Source Used & Second-Hand: We know from experience – it can be expensive to buy seasonal clothes and gear, especially if you have kids who keep growing! Fortunately, a lot of high-quality brands encourage people to reuse and pass on items and it can endure year after year. Our community is great at handing down and reselling used items. As your kids grow out of their items and need new gear, consider buying second-hand and donating or passing on your gear, too!

Have a “Go-To” Bag: A pre-packed bag makes spontaneous trips easier! Fill it with relevant seasonal essentials. For winter, that could include extra clothes, a blanket, and some prepackaged snacks. For summer, we keep a swim bag ready, with swimsuits, sunscreen, goggles, pool toys, swim diapers, and floaties for the little ones. (Also, don’t forget water for outdoor adventures in ALL seasons!)

Pack Snacks: Portable snacks like granola bars, dried fruit, or trail mix come are amazing for little energy boosts. Our fam also loves fresh fruit like tangerines and grapes. These have definitely come in handy on cross-country ski trips when the kiddos’ enthusiasm and energy have waned!

Go Loco for Cocoa: Winter outings are much cozier when there is hot chocolate! Pack a thermos with your favorite warm drink for a simple but special way to warm up on cold days. Fun hot cocoa topping ideas include mini marshmallows, a candy cane, sprinkles, or whipped cream.

Celebrate Seasonal Firsts: Our daycare celebrates “Solfest” (“Sun party”!) on the first day that daylight reaches the daycare again, after months in the shade of the mountain. Make a big deal out of “firsts” like the first snowfall, “spring forward” or “fall back,” etc. Plan something special like a family photo or a themed picnic as a fun family tradition.

Have a Back-up Plan: Sometimes, weather changes or plans don’t work out. A cozy indoor activity helps make sure the day still feels special. We love a trip to an indoor swimming pool, bowling alley, or a family movie night.

With a little planning, flexibility, and an open mind, we can enjoy the outdoors all year long!