How to raise kids like they do in Denmark, one of the happiest countries on earth

Denmark has been ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world by the Organization For Economic Cooperation And Development for nearly 4 decades. How are they so happy? The answer lies largely in the way they raise their children to become resilient, emotionally secure, and happy adults.

Danish parenting is based on establishing a healthy relationship between parents and children. In this bond, the parents show the child that they care for them, and teach them to become better versions of themselves.

Here are six essential principles of Danish parenting from the book 'The Danish Way of Parenting' by Jessica Joelle Alexander and Iben Sandahl.

In Denmark, parents encourage their children to play freely. Unlike some parents who restrict playtime, Danish parenting involves allowing your child to pursue their interests without parental control. Of course, parental supervision is ensured, but they do not interfere or control.

Read more: Little girl has the sweetest reaction on spotting her mother in the audience

Some parents with good intentions go to the extent of giving empty praises to their kids. This is not to be done. Here, the parents focus more on your child's efforts than how 'smart' or 'dumb' you think they are. This helps in raising kids who are not insecure and well aware of their personal strengths and weaknesses.

This involves not thinking your child is difficult, especially in situations when they are, well, being difficult. The idea is to reframe the perception of an unpleasant situation. The key is to dig into cranky behavior or misbehavior, instead of thinking your child wants to intentionally act unruly.

Reframing acts like a fire extinguisher to potential harsh scenarios. It will also give you and your child the confidence to not panic or lose spirit when things go bad, wrong, or scary.

Read more: Do you feel your kid is lazy? You might be wrong; check these scientific explanations

Empathy is a fundamental value that is even taught in schools in Denmark. Practicing empathy teaches children how to respect others and even themselves. It also helps to prevent bullying.

As parents, you may resort to authoritative ultimatums to 'force' your child to act or behave in a certain way. However, this can backfire, creating power tension and a win/lose situation between you and your child. This is not the kind of bond that will help you connect with your child.

Togetherness, also known as hygge, is another essential part of Danish parenting. They make sure they spend plenty of time with their kids. This allows the child to build a community and ultimately happiness.