On IVN’s Hartje Winter page, you will find everything you need to take part: activity sheets to download, audio stories, practical tips and a campaign toolkit that makes it easy to share Hartje Winter with colleagues and parents. This makes playing outside in winter not only fun, but also easy to organise.
Together for children and nature
IVN Nature Education and Humankind have been working together since 2013, sharing the conviction that every child deserves the chance to grow up connected to nature. This intensive collaboration gave rise to the nationwide outdoor play programme Hartje Winter. Humankind contributes pedagogical expertise, while IVN provides knowledge of nature education. More than 3,100 childcare locations and around 100,000 children have already taken part. Join us and help the snowball effect grow – together, we can make playing outside in winter the norm!
Why play outside in winter?
Scientific research shows that playing outside is essential for children’s motor skills, concentration and health. Nevertheless, children play outside less on average in winter than in summer (Mulier Institute, 2020). That is precisely why it is important to encourage outdoor play in the heart of winter. After all, exercising and discovering nature are fun and healthy, even during the coldest months of the year.
Fresh air and daylight promote the production of vitamin D, which has a positive effect on muscles and the immune system. This helps children stay fit and energetic throughout the winter months. Would you like more evidence and inspiration? On the IVN page for primary education, you will find a collection of research highlighting the benefits of playing outside in winter.