Why green schoolyards?
Research has been demonstrating the importance of green schoolyards for years. They result in happier, healthier children and improved academic performance. Children experience less stress in green schoolyards, and there is also less bullying. In addition, green schoolyards are of great importance for biodiversity, which is under severe pressure in our small, densely populated country. It is therefore high time to overhaul schoolyards!
60% of schoolyards are paved
Research conducted by IVN among parents and teachers shows that no less than sixty percent of schoolyards in our country are paved. The differences between provinces are considerable. While a substantial number of schoolyards in North Brabant and Overijssel have been greened in recent years, the Randstad in particular is lagging behind. This is concerning, because children in disadvantaged neighbourhoods of large cities already have less contact with nature as it is.
National coordination needed!
IVN believes that every child has the right to a healthy, green schoolyard, regardless of where their cradle is located. The appearance of a schoolyard currently depends mainly on willing provincial or municipal authorities, the school itself, and committed parents who want to do their part. Most green schoolyards can be found in more affluent neighbourhoods. This inequality must end. With this petition, IVN is therefore calling on Minister Wiersma of Education to take national responsibility and ensure that all children can play and receive lessons in a healthy, green schoolyard by 2030 at the latest.