Explore Early Childhood Through Storytelling, Adventure & Nordic Wonder
May 11-21, 2026
Join a unique study journey through Sweden and Finland, where you’ll dive into the magical world of Tove Jansson’s Moominvalley. Reflect on the mysteries of childhood—what we know, don’t know, and are still discovering—through powerful themes of play, imagination, and empathy. Let children’s literature guide your thinking as you experience Nordic nature, innovative early education, and the transformative power of story.
Along the way, you’ll visit an inspiring preschool, whimsical playgrounds, world-class museums, and cultural landmarks that bring early learning to life. This is more than a study tour—it’s a shared journey. You’ll build meaningful connections with fellow educators and be guided by Suzanne Axelsson, Cheryl Priest, and Alex Henry, who bring deep expertise, curiosity, and care to every step of the experience.
Gothenburg & Stockholm, Sweden
Your journey begins in the vibrant city of Gothenburg, where you’ll settle into your surroundings and connect with fellow travelers over a welcome dinner. The week unfolds with thought-provoking visits that blend culture, play, and pedagogy—starting at the Museum of World Culture, a space designed to spark big questions, deep curiosity, and open dialogue. You’ll spend a day with Linda Linder at The 3rd Place, a warm, in-between space that invites connection, creativity, and community. After time to reflect and gather insights with your guides Suzanne, Cheryl, and Alex, you’ll travel by train to Stockholm, where new inspiration awaits. In Sweden’s capital, you’ll experience storytelling that weaves together play, learning, and teaching in beautiful, unexpected ways. Then, dive into a dynamic exploration of outdoor learning with Suzanne Axelsson on a playground tour focused on risk, playability, and the art of noticing. The week concludes with reflections and a visit to the Museum of Viking History, grounding your learning in both the past and present of Nordic culture.
Helsinki, Finland
In the final leg of your journey, you’ll cruise all night to arrive in Helsinki, Finland—a city where nature, imagination, and innovation meet. You’ll visit a local preschool to observe Finnish early childhood education in practice, gaining insight into a system rooted in trust, joy, and child-led exploration. But perhaps most meaningfully, this chapter brings your personal journey full circle. Throughout the trip, you’ve been walking alongside your chosen Moomin character—reflecting, noticing, and growing through their lens. Now, you’ll step into their world at a special Moomin exhibit, where story, identity, and education converge in magical ways. Our time in Finland culminates in shared reflections and a celebratory group lunch—a chance to honor the connections you’ve made, the questions you’ve asked, and the story you’ll carry forward from this Nordic adventure.
Evolving Itinerary
- Monday – Hotel check in and welcome dinner in Gothenburg
- Tuesday – Museum of World Culture, a place for questions big or small, and a place for curiosity and dialogue
- Wednesday – The 3rd Place with Linda Linder, not your home, not your work, but a special place offering connection and community
- Thursday – Reflections on Gothenburg with Suzanne, Cheryl & Alex, Train to Stockholm
- Friday – Exploring the intertwining threads of play, learning and teaching through the language of storytelling
- Saturday – Risk, Playability & Noticing Playground Tour with Suzanne Axelsson
- Sunday – Reflections on Stockholm, Museum of Viking History, Overnight Cruise (yes, the fun kind!) to Helsinki
- Monday – Arrive in Helsinki, Finland, Preschool visit tbd
- Tuesday – Exploring the Moomins Museum Exhibit and Interactive Reflections
- Wednesday – Final Reflections and Group Lunch
- Thursday – Check Out of Hotel
Register TODAY for $300
Pay the Program Fee LATER $4,680
*See details below
**Payment plans allow you to spread the cost out between the 1st of next month and May 1!
ex. Register before the end of October and then pay $669 per month from November – May
Costs
Single Participant 10 Nights (single room when available with breakfast)
$300 – Deposit to Reserve Your Place +
$4,680 – Program Fee
$150 discount per person for 2 people sharing a room
Payment Plans Available – Spread your payment out between the 1st of next month and May 1!
Credit Card, Venmo, PayPal, Checks Accepted.
After receiving your registration and deposit, we will contact you to determine the payment plan that best meets your needs!
Program Fee Due in Full Before Trip Begins
Experience includes 45+ hours of professional development with certificate, full membership in the Cozy Ground Collaborative from early November through August 2026 (options for leveled free to paid membership after 8/2026), in-country experiences, program tours, school visit, cultural experiences, travel health insurance, program travel within and between Sweden and Finland, 10 nights lodging with breakfast, and several group meals. Also available – MiRegistry credit
Discounts available for:
Full cash or check payment (-$100 from final payment)
Prices Do NOT Include:
Airfare, Transportation to/from Airport to Hotels, Personal Exploration Expenses, Most Lunches and Dinners (designated hotels do provide Fika and Dinner), Extra Activities, Personal Expenses
Cozy & Flourish LLC 