Dutch mothers share secrets about raising happy children

The way Dutch parents raise their children involves, not something extraordinary, but simply simple methods.

Even researchers have proved that Dutch children are far ahead of their international companions in aspects of welfare and happiness.

So if you just want to know what makes Dutch mothers distinguish from the rest of the world, just follow the methods they apply to child rearing.

Giving Children More Time to Sleep

The focus on rest is really very important in Dutch parents' culture.

Unlike other nations that tend to overload children, Dutch parents usually choose lower - intensity activities at home and minimal distractions.

This helps children to feel relaxed and to have more regular bedtime.

Some studies show that Dutch babies aged 6 months get two more hours of sleep a day than do American babies.

After their babies get better sleep, their mothers are likely to be more fired and feeling better.

Let them eat chocolate in the morning

Consumption of chocolate for breakfast may sound like a bad idea, but not for Dutch mothers.

They actually believe that if they let kids eat chocolate in the morning, it'll get less taboo and kids learn to have more self-control.

Dutch mothers tell their children that money doesn't matter

The Dutch focus mainly on a simple life and low - cost activities.

In Holland, children are taught to have secondhand toys. This helps their children to become more pragmatic and self - confident.

Even when Dutch children celebrate birthdays, they do not expect expensive gifts from their parents or expensive clothes.

There is even a silent “Pakt” that says birthday gifts should not cost more than 10 euros.

This is done in order for children in the Netherlands to gather together to play and enjoy themselves rather than to be commended for money.

Encouraged to Express Their Thought

In Dutch families, everyone, including the youngest in the family, has the right to express his opinion.

They Do Not Pressure Children

In other countries, parents actually engage their children too much.

In contrast, the Dutch seem more lazy and uneasily because they just let their children be children.

They believe that the world is interesting enough and stimulating for children without having to add other things.

They are sure that their baby will crawl, walk and talk, without any additional training or pressure, but only love and interaction.

Dutch mothers try to make their children happy, not successful

Normally, the Dutch have ambitions for their children like all other parents, but their vision of success is different.

Although most foreign mothers are commended for their children's excellent grades at school, Dutch mothers are most concerned about their children's welfare.

The Dutch believe that in order to be successful, children must be happy, motivated, independent, and have a positive relationship with friends and family members.