Earlier this year, dozens of municipalities registered with the aim of transforming their schoolyards from paved spaces into green, playful and educational environments. “There is enormous interest,” says Vincent van der Veen of IVN. “This shows that more and more municipalities and schools recognise its importance and want to be part of this revolution in Dutch schoolyards.”
€2.5 million extra for healthy development
Thanks to an additional investment from the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport, this will now become a reality for 80 schools. State Secretary Judith Tielen (Sport): “Moving forward in life begins with growing up as healthily as possible. Playing outside and exercising a lot is a good start: it helps children improve their concentration, learning ability and social behaviour in the classroom. To encourage this, we have increased the current ‘Healthy Schoolyards’ subsidy by €2.5 million. This will allow children at 80 additional schools to enjoy schoolyards that are more conducive to play and exercise, with fewer tiles and more greenery.”
IVN and Jantje Beton will soon begin implementation in more than 25 municipalities spread across all provinces. “Ultimately, our goal is for every child in the Netherlands to have access to a Healthy Schoolyard like this,” says Marlies Bouman (Jantje Beton), describing the most important ambition for the future.
More exercise, less fuss
A logical ambition, because Healthy Schoolyards offer many benefits. Research has shown for years that a green and stimulating schoolyard results in happier and healthier children. “There is something for every child to experience in these kinds of schoolyards,” says Marlies Bouman. “Teachers often say that children play more and in different ways, with less fuss during breaks.”
Trees and plants also provide cooling, natural protection from the sun, better air quality and less waterlogging. “And they offer a unique opportunity for outdoor lessons,” adds Van der Veen. “Not only for nature education, but also for language or maths.”
Read more about the Healthy Schoolyards programme at www.gezondeschoolpleinen.nl