- Download our Moving to Oslo Guide (PDF)
Oslo is a children’s paradise and, therefore, also a parent’s paradise. No matter where one goes in Oslo, one is bound to see children: with their barnehage (school) class on the trikken (tram), with their parents at Frogner Park’s playground, on skis or a sled in Nordmarka in winter, or accompanying their parents in strollers, carriers or in bicycle trailers.
With a year of maternity leave, mothers are often out walking with their children or meeting with other mothers in cafés. Sidewalks can be crowded with baby carriages pushed by both men and women. These groups are jokingly referred to as Mamma Mafian (Baby Brigade) when they crowd cafés all day long.
Children are very much a part of Oslo’s tapestry and are well cared for and included. As such, Oslo is a great place to raise a family. The government gives several benefits to families with children, and the more, the better. Norwegian society is set up to care for children, from school to family life. Oslo is also an exceptionally safe place for children.
There are always events on in the city for children, from festivals and theatres to museum exhibits. There is also a wide variety of offers for mothers and their children, such as 'Mommy and Me' yoga, swimming and dance lessons at gyms, as well as day care at larger gyms. Some workplaces offer day care, and even incorporate playrooms with adjoining offices for working parents.
Further reading
►To find out about activities in the city have a look at See and Do in Oslo
►An expat provides advice for kids and parents on surviving winters in Norway
Expat Experiences
"Our children have settled in remarkably smoothly. Both of the kids have made new friends and are feeling at home in our new neighbourhood. I think they love that they can walk to and from school every day with their friends."
Find out more about American expat Laura's family life in Oslo in our expat interview.
Are you an expat living in Oslo?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Oslo. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
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