Hello
I’m Katie Malinsky, the founder of Hygge Academy, and my passion for creating a nurturing, creative, and sustainable childcare environment stems from both my professional background and personal experiences.
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I hold a degree in Human Development and Family Studies, with a focus on Child Development, which has given me a deep understanding of the unique needs of young children. Over the years, I’ve worked in various childcare settings, from being a daycare teacher in infant and toddler rooms, to working as a nanny, camp counselor, and afterschool program leader. I’m also a proud mother of two young children, aged 2 and 4, which has further fueled my drive to create the ideal learning space for kids.
Our Story
In October 2023, life threw us an unexpected curveball: both my husband and I were laid off within the same week. At the time, our biggest expense was childcare. While we considered pulling our kids out of daycare, we quickly realized the risk—it could take 6 to 8 months to regain their spots due to long waitlists. This challenge reminded me of our struggles when we first moved to Wisconsin in 2022. Reliable childcare was incredibly difficult to find. Waitlists for daycare centers were overwhelming, and other options were either too expensive, inconsistent, or simply not places we felt comfortable leaving our children.
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During three months of unemployment, I began working on a better solution—and that’s how Hygge Academy was born. Inspired by the Danish concept of hygge, which emphasizes coziness and well-being, I envisioned a daycare that feels like a second home. A place where children can enjoy a warm, inviting environment filled with opportunities for active play, quiet moments, and meaningful connections.
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At Hygge Academy, we’re passionate about creating a safe, nurturing space for children to thrive. We carefully select non-toxic, eco-friendly toys, tableware, and supplies because we believe in providing high-quality, natural materials that support both children’s health and the planet.
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Our approach is guided by the philosophy that less is more. Research shows that children flourish in environments where they aren’t overwhelmed by excess. By embracing simplicity and curating a minimalist space, we encourage creativity, focus, and imaginative play.
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We also take a holistic approach to child development, nurturing not just imagination but life skills and a love for exploration. With a balance of indoor and outdoor play, children at Hygge Academy are given the freedom to learn, grow, and connect in an environment that feels calm, supportive, and intentionally designed.
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At Hygge Academy, we’re more than a daycare—we’re a community, and we’re honored to play a role in your child’s early years.
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Our Name
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Hygge Academy takes its name from the Danish concept of "hygge" (pronounced HOO-guh), a word that perfectly captures the values of coziness, connection, and well-being we strive to embody. This name is also deeply personal. It honors my Norwegian grandmother, a woman who radiated love and brought our family together through simple, heartfelt traditions—like the lefse she made every Christmas. Her life of 106 years left a lasting legacy of care and joy, and through Hygge Academy, we aim to share that same warmth with the world.