In just a few days, I am heading off on a business trip to Norway. In addition to all the work preparation I have been trying to get done in anticipation, I have also been trying to read up a little on what to expect from the nation and the cultural and what sort of manners and such I will need to foster in order to get along while on my week and a half visit. Yesterday, I was struck by a chapter in one of my books about Norwegian parenting…
In Norway, it is against the law to physically punish children. This goes for any sort of capital punishment from slapping and spanking to pulling a child’s hair to get them to do what you want or pay attention. This law extends to home, school, or anywhere else and parents who violate this law can be imprisoned. I couldn’t help but think of our recent debates in the United States about whether corporal punishment for children should be made against the law. It seems to be a hotly debated topic here in the states since there are still many people who believe that it is “good” for children to hit them. In Norway, however, it is a clear law with clear repercussions.
I have heard from others who have visited and lived in Scandinavian countries that nations like Norway, Denmark and Sweden are very family and child-focused. Supposedly, mothers receive an entire 12-months of paid maternity leave upon giving birth to a baby and laws are structured around supporting families and working parents. I am eager to see what this actually looks like while I’m in the country and I will report back to all of you about my adventures–I am hoping there will be a thing or two I can learn from Norwegian and Scandinavian parents that I can add to my own parenting repertoire!
Also: I’ve Never Been Away From My Kids For Ten Days!