NordenBladet – Südamekodud, the largest provider of elderly care services in Estonia, is expanding its operations into Latvia and Lithuania. The expansion is being carried out in collaboration with EfTEN Capital, a real estate fund manager with whom Südamekodud has already developed a successful partnership in Estonia.
The goal is to invest in the elderly care sector in both Latvia and Lithuania, including the construction of new care homes and the renovation of existing facilities. The initiative also includes the development of service providers to improve the overall quality of care.
Currently, Südamekodud operates 12 care homes across Estonia, offering over 1,200 care places and employing more than 500 people. Additionally, approximately 500 new care places are planned in Estonia. Construction is also underway in Tallinn’s Hiiu district, where the new Nõmme Südamekodu will be built to accommodate 170 elderly residents.
EfTEN Real Estate Fund AS is the first real estate fund in the Baltics to have invested in care home infrastructure for over five years. Today, the fund owns four care home properties in Estonia in partnership with Südamekodud.
Both Südamekodud and EfTEN Capital see strategic potential in their joint expansion — to develop modern and secure care facilities that meet the growing needs of aging populations and support local economies through job creation and infrastructure investment.
NordenBladet – Whether you’re assembling a piece of furniture, setting up software, or installing a new gadget, following a step-by-step guide can make the process hassle-free. In this article, we’ll provide you with a simple template for creating easy-to-follow installation instructions for just about anything.
Materials Needed:
Before you start creating your step-by-step installation instructions, make sure you have the following materials on hand:
Pen and Paper or Digital Device: You’ll need something to write or type your instructions on.
Camera or Smartphone: You might want to include pictures to illustrate the steps.
Now, let’s get started on creating those clear and straightforward instructions!
Step 1: Title
Begin with a clear and concise title that describes what you’re installing or assembling. This helps the user understand the purpose of the instructions.
Example: “Assembly Instructions for XYZ Bookshelf.”
Step 2: List of Required Materials
Create a list of all the materials or tools needed for the installation. Be specific and include everything necessary for the task.
Example:
XYZ Bookshelf components
Screwdriver
Screws (included in the package)
User manual (included)
Step 3: Start with Safety
Always prioritize safety. If there are any safety precautions or warnings, include them at the beginning of your instructions.
Example:
Wear safety goggles when handling tools.
Keep small parts away from children and pets.
Step 4: Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, break down the installation process into simple, numbered steps. Each step should be clear and concise. Use action verbs to describe what the user needs to do.
Example:
Step 1: Lay out all the XYZ Bookshelf components on a clean, flat surface.
Step 2: Using the screwdriver, attach the side panels (A) to the top panel (B) using the provided screws (C).
Step 3: Secure the bottom panel (D) to the side panels (A) using screws (C).
Step 4: Attach the back panel (E) to the assembled structure using screws (C).
Step 5: Insert the shelves (F) into the designated slots on the side panels (A).
Step 6: Make sure all screws are tightened securely.
Step 7: Your XYZ Bookshelf is now assembled and ready to use!
Step 5: Visual Aids (Optional)
If possible, include photographs or diagrams to visually illustrate each step. A picture can often convey instructions more effectively than words alone.
Step 6: Troubleshooting Tips (Optional)
If there are common issues or challenges users may face during installation, provide troubleshooting tips. Address frequently asked questions or potential problems.
Step 7: Final Check
At the end of the instructions, remind the user to double-check their work and ensure everything is properly assembled or installed.
Step 8: Additional Information (Optional)
If there are any additional details, maintenance instructions, or warranty information, include it at the end of the document.
Creating easy-to-follow installation instructions doesn’t have to be complicated. By following this simple template and using clear language, you can help users successfully complete their installation or assembly tasks with confidence. Remember, the key is to keep it straightforward and user-friendly!
NordenBladet – In the heart of Scandinavia, nestled among breathtaking landscapes, you’ll find a timeless architectural gem – the turf-roofed house (torvtak). These traditional dwellings, also known as sod-roofed houses, harken back to a bygone era and stand as a testament to the ingenuity and connection to nature that define Nordic and Scandinavian cultures. In this article, we’ll explore the allure of these unique structures, delving into their history, construction, and enduring charm.
Historical Significance
Turf-roofed houses have a rich history dating back hundreds of years, with their origins rooted in the harsh climates and limited building resources of the Scandinavian region. These houses were primarily constructed in rural areas and served as homes, barns, and storage buildings for farmers and their families.
The practice of using turf as roofing material was borne out of necessity. Thick layers of grass, moss, or sod provided insulation, offering protection from the frigid winters. Over time, the technique evolved, incorporating timber frameworks and stone foundations, resulting in sturdy and sustainable structures.
Construction Techniques
Turf-roofed houses are characterized by their distinctive green or brown roofs, which are essentially living roofs covered in vegetation. The construction process typically involves the following steps:
Foundation: Builders lay a stone foundation to provide stability and prevent moisture from seeping into the structure.
Wooden Framework: A wooden framework is erected to create the shape and structure of the building, including walls and roof support.
Sod Layers: Layers of turf, often cut from the surrounding landscape, are carefully stacked on top of the wooden framework. These layers provide insulation and are held in place by wooden pegs.
Vegetation: Grass, moss, or other suitable plants are planted on the turf roof. These plants help regulate temperature, absorb rainwater, and blend the structure into the natural surroundings.
Environmental Benefits
The environmental advantages of turf-roofed houses are significant. Their green roofs absorb rainwater, reducing runoff and helping to mitigate flooding. They also act as natural insulation, improving energy efficiency and reducing heating costs. Additionally, the vegetation provides a habitat for local wildlife, contributing to biodiversity.
Modern Adaptations
While turf-roofed houses were once commonplace throughout the Scandinavian countryside, they became less prevalent with the advent of modern construction materials and techniques. However, there has been a resurgence of interest in preserving and even reinventing these traditional structures in recent years.
In modern architecture, turf roofs are being incorporated into contemporary designs, creating sustainable and eco-friendly homes that pay homage to the past while embracing the future. These modern adaptations often combine traditional aesthetics with cutting-edge technology, making them both visually striking and environmentally responsible.
Cultural Significance
Turf-roofed houses hold a special place in the hearts of Nordic and Scandinavian communities. They symbolize a deep-rooted connection to the land and a commitment to sustainable living. These houses have also become iconic representations of the unique blend of tradition and innovation that characterizes the region.
Visiting Turf-Roofed Houses
For those eager to experience the charm of turf-roofed houses, Scandinavia offers numerous opportunities. Open-air museums and historical villages often feature well-preserved examples that provide a glimpse into the past. In addition, many contemporary homes in rural areas have incorporated this traditional roofing style, allowing visitors to witness the fusion of old and new.
Scandinavian turf-roofed houses stand as a living testament to the enduring relationship between humanity and nature. They reflect a deep respect for the environment and a commitment to sustainability that has endured for centuries. As modern architecture continues to rediscover and adapt these traditional designs, the allure of turf-roofed houses remains as strong as ever, offering a glimpse into the timeless beauty of Nordic and Scandinavian culture.
Photos: Nordic sod roof houses (3x Unsplash)
Easy Turf Roof Installation Guide
Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide for installing a turf roof:
Materials Needed:
Turf sod (grass and soil)
Wooden planks or boards
Waterproof membrane (optional)
Staples or nails
Grass seeds (optional)
Watering can or hose
Step 1: Prepare the Structure Ensure your building or structure has a sturdy wooden frame or roof structure in place.
Step 2: Waterproof Membrane (Optional)
If you want extra protection against leaks, you can lay down a waterproof membrane on the roof structure.
Step 3: Lay Wooden Boards Lay down wooden planks or boards over the roof structure. This creates a stable base for the turf.
Step 4: Add a Layer of Soil Spread a layer of soil evenly over the wooden boards. Make sure it’s about 4-6 inches deep.
Step 5: Plant Grass Seeds (Optional) If you want a more traditional look, plant grass seeds evenly across the soil layer. Water them thoroughly.
Step 6: Lay Turf Sod Place the turf sod (grass-side up) over the soil or grass seed layer. Press it down gently to ensure good contact.
Step 7: Secure the Turf Use staples or nails to secure the edges of the turf to the wooden boards. Make sure it’s securely attached.
Step 8: Water and Maintain Water your newly installed turf roof regularly, especially during dry spells, to help the grass grow and keep the turf healthy.
Step 9: Enjoy Your Turf Roof Your turf roof is now installed! It will provide natural insulation and add a touch of beauty to your structure.
Tips:
Choose drought-resistant grass species if you live in a dry climate.
Trim the grass on your turf roof regularly to maintain its neat appearance.
Check for any leaks or damage to the wooden structure periodically to ensure the roof’s integrity.
Note: Installing a turf roof is a labor-intensive process and may require careful planning. It’s essential to ensure that your building’s structure can support the added weight of the soil and turf. Consider consulting with a professional for larger projects.
Featured image: Turf roofed house in Iceland (Unsplash)
NordenBladet – In a world filled with curated social media feeds and glossy magazine spreads, we are bombarded with images of flawlessly designed living spaces. It’s easy to feel a twinge of envy or frustration when our own homes don’t measure up to these seemingly unattainable standards. But what if we told you that the secret to a truly inviting and authentic living space lies in embracing imperfections? In this article, we’ll explore the intriguing concept of imperfect living spaces and how they can create a sense of warmth, character, and individuality that picture-perfect homes often lack. Brace yourself for a perspective that might just challenge your idea of what makes a house a home.
Embracing Eclectic Décor:
Say goodbye to matchy-matchy furniture sets and perfectly coordinated color schemes. Embracing an eclectic approach to home décor means mixing and matching different styles, patterns, and textures. Let your personal taste shine through as you curate a space that reflects your unique personality.
The Beauty of Wabi-Sabi:
Derived from Japanese aesthetics, the concept of wabi-sabi embraces imperfections and celebrates the transient nature of life. Embrace the beauty of weathered wood, slightly chipped ceramics, and faded fabrics. These imperfections tell stories and add depth to your living space.
The Art of Purposeful Clutter:
Contrary to popular belief, a little bit of clutter can actually bring charm and authenticity to your home. Display your cherished collections, arrange books haphazardly, and let your living space exude a lived-in feel. It’s the imperfections that create a sense of comfort and a lived-in atmosphere.
Cozy Corner Nooks:
Instead of striving for pristine perfection, create cozy nooks that invite relaxation and reflection. Transform a corner of your home into a reading sanctuary with a comfy chair, soft lighting, and a stack of well-loved books. These intimate spaces provide solace and respite from the chaos of daily life.
The Magic of Unfinished Projects:
Instead of viewing unfinished projects as a source of frustration, see them as opportunities for creativity and growth. Embrace the journey rather than focusing solely on the end result. Unfinished projects can add an element of intrigue and excitement to your living space, reminding you that life is a work in progress.
In a world obsessed with perfection, embracing imperfect living spaces can be a liberating and transformative experience. It’s time to challenge the notion that our homes should mirror picture-perfect magazines. By embracing eclectic décor, the beauty of wabi-sabi, purposeful clutter, cozy nooks, and unfinished projects, we invite warmth, character, and individuality into our living spaces.
Let go of the pressure to conform to societal standards and instead create a home that reflects your true self. Embrace the imperfections, for it is within these idiosyncrasies that true beauty and authenticity reside. So, go ahead, step outside the confines of perfection and unlock the magic of imperfect living spaces. Share your thoughts and experiences, and let’s start a conversation about the hidden beauty that lies within the imperfect corners of our homes.
NordenBladet – It can be very challenging to stay positive when you have a mentally disabled child who will remain a child forever. Disabled children grow into disabled adults. You will face additional challenges, and you may be worried about your child’s future.
However, there are some things you can do to help maintain a positive outlook:
Focus on the present: Instead of worrying about the future, focus on the present moment and the positive things that you and your child can do together.
Celebrate small victories: Instead of focusing on the things that your child can’t do, celebrate the small victories and achievements that he/she makes.
Practice self-care: Make sure you take care of yourself, both physically and emotionally. This can help you stay positive and be there for your child.
Build a support network: Reach out to friends and family members who can offer help and support. You don’t have to go through this alone.
Educate yourself: Learn as much as you can about your child’s condition and how to manage it. This can help you feel more in control and less overwhelmed.
Seek support: Find a support group or therapist who can help you cope with the challenges of raising a child with special needs. Talking to others who are in a similar situation can be very helpful.
If you feel so stressed, tired, or sad that you don’t know if you can ever be happy, then this could be a sign that you need help. Talk to a doctor about these feelings and ask to be screened for mental health issues like anxiety and depression. These are treatable and it can get better if you take action.
There´s nothing wrong to have bad days and feel overwhelmed. But by focusing on the positives and taking care of yourself, you can help maintain a positive outlook and provide the best care for your child. Recognize that disabled people can live wonderful lives!
NordenBladet – In Estonia and Nordic countries child’s upbringing and environment plays a crucial role in shaping their beliefs, values, and attitudes.
The upbringing and environment of a child play a crucial role in shaping their beliefs, values, and attitudes in Estonia and Nordic countries due to the cultural emphasis on these factors as key determinants of personal development.
In Estonia and Nordic countries, the family is considered the primary agent of socialization, with parents and other caregivers providing the foundation for a child’s growth and learning. The educational system also supports this model, with a strong emphasis on child-centered learning and the development of critical thinking skills.
Additionally, the Nordic welfare state provides a comprehensive network of social services and support for families, including access to high-quality early childhood education and care, health care, and family leave policies. These resources help to create a supportive environment for children to grow and thrive.
The effectiveness of this model is demonstrated by the high levels of social trust, equality, and well-being that are characteristic of Nordic societies. Children in these countries have better educational outcomes, lower levels of poverty and inequality, and higher levels of health and well-being compared to many other countries.
These tips below demonstrate the many different factors that can shape a child’s beliefs, values, and attitudes and why it is important to consider the full range of influences on child development. By providing a supportive and nurturing environment, families, educators, and communities can help children grow into well-rounded, confident, and compassionate individuals.
Family Influence: The family is the primary source of socialization for a child and shapes their values, beliefs, and attitudes through modeling and teaching.
Educational Experience: Schools and other educational institutions play a key role in shaping a child’s beliefs and values by providing structured learning experiences and shaping their critical thinking skills.
Social and Cultural Context: The broader social and cultural context, including religious beliefs, political values, and community norms, also shape a child’s beliefs and attitudes.
Peer Relationships: Peer relationships and social networks play an important role in shaping a child’s beliefs and attitudes, particularly during adolescence.
Media and Technology: The media and technology that children are exposed to, including TV, movies, and the internet, can have a significant impact on their beliefs, values, and attitudes.
Personal Experiences: A child’s personal experiences, such as significant life events, can also shape their beliefs and attitudes by influencing their perspectives and worldview.
The Nordic model of child-rearing and upbringing provides a holistic approach to child development that recognizes the importance of both the family and the broader social environment in shaping a child’s beliefs, values, and attitudes. While it is not without its challenges, it remains an effective and widely admired approach to raising healthy, happy, and well-adjusted children.
NordenBladet – How to involve young people in solving crisis situations? Young people can play an instrumental role in addressing crisis situations. They are the future leaders and they bring new ideas, energy, and a fresh perspective to the table. In order to involve young people in crisis response, the following 12 solutions can be applied:
Engage in youth-led initiatives: Encourage young people to take the lead in creating their own initiatives aimed at addressing the crisis. This will empower them to drive change and provide them with a sense of ownership and responsibility.
Provide opportunities for youth volunteering: Create programs that allow young people to volunteer their time and skills to crisis response efforts. This will give them a sense of purpose and a way to contribute to the solution.
Emphasize the importance of youth involvement: Raise awareness about the importance of youth involvement in crisis response and the role they can play in making a difference.
Foster youth leadership: Provide training and resources to young people so they can develop their leadership skills and become effective advocates for change.
Encourage collaboration and partnership: Foster partnerships between young people, government, NGOs, and other organizations to create a more unified response to the crisis.
Engage young people through social media: Utilize social media to reach out to young people and involve them in crisis response efforts. This will allow them to share their ideas, opinions and experiences with a wider audience.
Promote youth-led research: Support young people in conducting research to understand the root causes of the crisis and develop evidence-based solutions.
Encourage youth-led innovation: Encourage young people to use their creativity and innovative thinking to develop new and innovative solutions to crisis situations.
Provide mentorship and support: Provide mentorship and support to young people to help them grow their skills and achieve their goals in crisis response efforts.
Create opportunities for youth participation in decision-making: Ensure that young people have a voice in decision-making processes that affect their communities and their futures.
Provide access to resources and funding: Provide young people with access to resources and funding to support their efforts to address the crisis.
Celebrate and recognize youth achievement: Recognize and celebrate the achievements of young people in crisis response efforts. This will encourage them to continue their efforts and inspire others to get involved.
By implementing these solutions, young people can be fully engaged and empowered to make a meaningful contribution to addressing crisis situations. They have the potential to bring about real change, and it is important that we provide them with the support and resources they need to succeed.
Here are some examples of how young people are involved in crisis response efforts in the Scandinavian region:
Sweden: In Sweden, youth organizations such as the Swedish Red Cross Youth (https://migrationsmartpractices.ifrc.org) and the Swedish Save the Children Youth (https://resourcecentre.savethechildren.net)are actively involved in disaster relief and crisis response efforts. These organizations engage young volunteers in providing support to those affected by crisis situations.
Norway: In Norway, the Norwegian Red Cross (https://www.rodekors.no)has a youth program that provides young people with the opportunity to volunteer and get involved in disaster relief and crisis response efforts. The organization also provides training and support to young people to help them develop their leadership skills and become effective advocates for change.
Denmark: In Denmark, youth organizations such as the Danish Red Cross Youth (https://www.urk.dk) and the Danish Youth Council (https://en.duf.dk) are involved in disaster relief and crisis response efforts. These organizations provide young people with opportunities to volunteer and contribute to the solution, and they also advocate for youth involvement in decision-making processes.
These are just a few examples of how young people are involved in crisis response efforts in the Scandinavian region. By leveraging the passion, creativity, and energy of young people, organizations and governments can create more effective and inclusive crisis response efforts that benefit all members of society.
NordenBladet – Raising a child is a complex and rewarding journey. As a parent, it is important to nurture your child and help them develop the skills they need to become self-sufficient adults. An independent child is one who is confident, self-reliant, and capable of making their own decisions. Such a child is able to handle the challenges of life with resilience and determination, and is able to make the most of opportunities as they arise.
This educational series “HOW to raise an independent child?” prepared by NordenBladet consists of eight useful recommendations that can help you raise your child to be independent and successful. We will explore what it means to raise an independent child and offer tips and strategies to help you support your child as they grow and develop.
Here are some key points for raising an independent child:
1. Encourage independence: Give children the chance to make their own decisions, within reason. Let them solve problems and make mistakes on their own. This will build their confidence and self-reliance.
Read also: The Impact of Parental Decisions on children and young people
3. Foster independence in daily activities: Encourage your child to do things on their own, such as getting dressed, brushing their teeth, and making their own meals.
7. Foster independence in social situations: Encourage your child to make friends and engage in social activities on their own. Teach them how to handle conflicts and navigate social situations.
Read more: Building confidence and independence in children’s SOCIAL SITUATIONS
Remember, the goal is to raise an independent child who is confident, self-reliant, and capable of making their own decisions. By following these steps, you will be well on your way to achieving this goal.
NordenBladet – The decisions made by parents have a significant impact on the lives of children and young people. By including the knowledge and perspective of children and young people in decision-making processes, parents can help to promote sustainable development, gender equality, and a child rights and youth perspective.
It is important for parents to actively listen to the views and opinions of their children and young people and to adopt a child-centered approach to decision-making. This can help to build trust, strengthen relationships, and provide children and young people with the opportunities and skills they need to shape their own lives.
Emotional Effects: Children and young people can be deeply affected by the decisions made by their parents. They may feel a range of emotions such as fear, anger, anxiety, or sadness, particularly if those decisions impact their security, stability, or relationships.
Life Choices: The decisions made by parents can also impact the life choices available to their children and young people. For instance, financial decisions made by parents can affect the educational and career opportunities available to their children.
Self-esteem: A child’s sense of self-worth and self-esteem can also be impacted by the decisions made by their parents. Children and young people may feel rejected, unwanted or unloved if they perceive that their parents do not value or listen to their opinions or needs.
Building trust: Including children and young people in decision making processes can help to build trust and strengthen relationships. This can also provide them with valuable life skills and foster a sense of ownership and responsibility.
Active Listening: To include the knowledge and perspective of children and young people, it is important for parents to listen actively and non-judgmentally to their opinions. This can involve asking questions, acknowledging their feelings, and being open to new perspectives.
Encouraging Participation: Parents can also encourage the active participation of children and young people in decision-making processes by providing opportunities for them to express their views and opinions. This could include household decisions, educational choices, and community involvement.
Child-centered Approach: A child-centered approach to decision-making can help to ensure that the rights, needs and perspectives of children and young people are taken into consideration. This approach considers the impact of decisions on children and young people, and seeks to empower them to be active participants in shaping their own lives.
NordenBladet – Teaching responsibility to children is a critical aspect of parenting as it helps them develop important life skills and become successful, well-rounded individuals. Raising responsible children helps them understand the value of hard work, accountability, and reliability, which are essential traits in personal and professional relationships.
Here are some tips on how to teach responsibility to children:
1. Lead by example – Children learn by observing and mimicking their parents, so set a good example by being responsible and dependable yourself.
2. Give chores and tasks – Assign age-appropriate tasks, such as cleaning their room or helping with household chores, to help your child learn the value of hard work.
3. Encourage self-sufficiency – Teach your child how to do things on their own, such as getting dressed or making their bed, to build their independence and responsibility.
4. Use natural consequences – Let your child experience the consequences of their actions, both positive and negative, to help them understand the impact of their decisions.
5. Teach time management – Encourage your child to plan their day and manage their time effectively, so they can prioritize and complete their responsibilities.
6. Provide structure and routine – Establishing a routine and having clear expectations helps children understand what is expected of them and fosters responsibility.
7. Encourage problem-solving – Teach your child how to solve problems and make decisions independently, to help them become more responsible and accountable.
8. Recognize and reward good behavior – Acknowledge and reward your child’s responsible behavior to reinforce positive habits and encourage continued growth.
9. Foster a positive attitude – Teach your child to have a positive and proactive approach to life, and encourage them to take responsibility for their actions and decisions.
10. Open communication – Maintain an open line of communication with your child, and encourage them to come to you with any questions or concerns they may have.
By following these tips, you can help your child develop the skills and confidence needed to become a responsible and dependable individual. The investment you make in your child’s development now will pay off in the long run, as they become confident and successful adults.
