What Does a ‘Good Childhood’ Actually Mean?
When you think about giving your child a “good childhood,” what comes to mind?
A stack of enrichment activities? The right school? Organic snacks, violin lessons, a Pinterest-worthy birthday party?
If so, you’re not alone. In today’s world, the pressure to do childhood perfectly is intense—especially for parents who want the best for their kids. But here’s the thing: a “good childhood” isn’t built from curated moments or constant achievement. It’s built from connection, security, and space to just be.
In The Danish Way of Parenting, authors Jessica Alexander and Iben Sandahl unpack the centuries-old cultural values that consistently rank Denmark as one of the happiest countries in the world. The secret? Simplicity, honesty, and deep emotional connection between parent and child.
Danish parents don’t strive to shield their kids from all hardship. Instead, they teach their children how to face challenges with resilience. They let boredom breathe creativity. They prioritize family hygge—simple, cozy togetherness—over hyper-scheduled lives. And perhaps most importantly, they embrace authenticity over perfection.
A good childhood, then, isn’t about eliminating all discomfort or producing a perfectly-behaved child. It’s about helping kids know that they are enough, just as they are—and so are you.
I’ve seen firsthand, both as a therapist and a human, how healing it can be when families shift from performance to presence. When a parent sets down the checklist and says, “Let’s just be here, together.” When a child learns that it’s safe to mess up and still be loved. That’s the foundation of mental wellness. That’s where confidence grows.
So if you’re feeling stretched thin by modern parenting standards, take a deep breath. You don’t have to do more—you might just need to do less, more intentionally. Slow down. Light a candle. Invite your child into a moment of quiet, silly, messy, imperfect connection. That’s the good stuff. That’s what lasts.
Looking for more support in redefining parenting on your own terms?
I help families create meaningful change—without the pressure of perfection. Reach out today to learn more about therapy for parents, tweens, and teens.
Cozy Apple Cinnamon Toast (Kid-Friendly Recipe)
One of my favorite ways to slow down with kids is to invite them into the kitchen—not to make anything fancy, but to create something together. This Danish-inspired apple cinnamon toast is easy enough for little hands and comforting for all ages.
Ingredients:
1 apple, thinly sliced
1 tsp butter
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp brown sugar (optional)
2 slices of whole grain bread
A little cream cheese or nut butter (optional base)
Instructions:
Lightly sauté apple slices in butter, cinnamon, and sugar until soft and fragrant (about 3–5 minutes).
Toast the bread and spread with cream cheese or nut butter if using.
Top with warm apple slices and serve with a cozy drink—maybe some warm milk or herbal tea.
Enjoy together, phones down, hearts open.
It’s not about the recipe—it’s about the moment. Let them stir. Let them spill. Let it be yours.
