Finnish Manners for Kids: How to Be Polite in Finland
Learning about another culture isn’t just about food, holidays, or language—it’s also about understanding how people behave and treat each other. Finnish customs and manners may seem quiet or reserved to some, but they reflect deep respect for personal space, honesty, and kindness. Here’s what kids (and parents!) should know about how people interact in Finland.
Greetings and Personal Space
In Finland, people greet each other with a handshake and direct eye contact, but they do not usually hug or kiss unless they are close family or friends. Boys and girls greet each other in the same polite way, often with a simple “Hei!” (Hi) or “Moi!” (Hello). This helps children learn the importance of respectful but calm greetings.
Finland is not a touch-heavy culture. This means people like to keep a little space between each other when they talk or sit. It’s not cold—it’s just comfortable for them!
Honesty and Direct Speech
Finnish people value honesty and directness. If a Finnish person asks, “How are you?”, they want a real answer—not just “fine.” This might feel different for some children, but it’s a good way to practice expressing how they truly feel in a respectful way.
Interrupting while someone is speaking is considered very impolite. It’s important to listen carefully and wait for your turn to speak. Children in Finland learn this early, both at home and in school.
Gender Roles and Family Life
Finland is one of the most gender-equal countries in the world. It’s very common for moms to work full-time jobs while dads stay home to care for children. This shows kids that everyone in the family can help out, no matter their gender.
Children in Finland often grow up seeing adults share responsibilities, both at home and in public life. It sets a great example of equality and cooperation.
Body Language and Manners
In Finnish culture, a simple shrug might mean “I don’t care,” so people try not to shrug unless they truly mean it. Being clear and thoughtful—even in body language—is part of being polite.
One of the most important manners in Finland is being on time. Whether for school, a playdate, or a family trip, punctuality shows respect. Kids quickly learn that being even five minutes late can be considered rude.
Practicing Finnish Culture at Home
Learning a language like Finnish also means learning how people behave. With Dinolingo, kids not only practice Finnish vocabulary and grammar—they also explore cultural habits through fun stories, songs, and games. It’s a great way for children ages 2–14 to understand not just what to say, but how to behave respectfully in a new culture.