Copenhagen

Holidays by Destination Europe Denmark Copenhagen Attitudes to Children 

It seems that it was in the late 1990s that a consensus grew up in Denmark that having children should not mean giving up your normal life. As a result Danes expect to see children pretty much everywhere they go, only the smartest restaurants likely to fee uncomfortable with them.

Play Areas

Most parks offer a play area, the one in FaelledParken recommended with paddling pool. There are two play areas on Skt Annae Plads north of Nyhavn.

Baby Changing

There are public lavatories around the city, often with attendants (eg at the end of Nyhavn) the more modern of which may have baby facilities. Most tourist points, even the Carlsberg brewery, have changing tables, or look for a department store.

Buggies

There are proportionately fewer cars in Denmark than say in the UK so public places are increasingly geared to buggies and even big Silver Cross prams. Low central or rear steps on new buses make boarding easy on buses. Trains have also been made accessible and stations have lifts where required. If you need help you should invariably receive it if you ask. Buggy access in shops and cafes is not always good but unlike other countries, it is felt safe to leave a buggy unsecured and indeed even leave the baby in it.

Breastfeeding

80-90% of mothers breastfeed exclusively for at least six months and often up to 1 1/2 years so this is normal, even in restaurants.

Babysitting

Baby listening seems unknown. Babysitting is provided by agencies. Options include HH Babysitting tel: 38 74 81 51 or 40 32 87 29 6.30-10pm; Student Babysitting phone 70 20 44 16 Mon-Fri 10am-3pm, Thurs noon-6pm, Sat & Sun closed. ABC Babysitting phone 39 20 43 46. Rates are DK30-40 per hour.

Baby Stuff

Nappy brands are broadly as in the UK though there is also Libero by Molnlycke, 72 midis DK129.95. Pull ups are also available. Formula is less used and brands are different so if buying you might like to consult a pharmacist (eg Matas). Supermarkets will usually be cheaper, names being Irma, Brugsen and Fotex.