Through the exercise program, children are encouraged to be more physically active during the school day instead of sitting still for hours on end. This is achieved through activities such as active memory games, clapping rhythms and mirror dancing. These physical activities help children feel better, concentrate better, absorb the lesson material more easily and prevent overweight.

Activity gap

Almost half of all children do not meet the physical activity guideline. In addition, there is a difference between children from low-income families and children from families with enough money to spend. Children from low-income families exercise and play sports less than their peers. Furthermore, children in special (primary) education in Utrecht are twice as likely to be overweight and three times as likely to be obese as children at mainstream primary schools.

Alderman for Sport Eva Oosters: “Some children sit still for more than seven hours a day, and that is not healthy. That is why we are now creating more opportunities for games and physical activity at schools, so that children move more. This exercise program is particularly aimed at children who may have fewer opportunities, so that all children are physically active for at least one hour a day, as recommended by the national guideline.”

The municipality, SportUtrecht, school boards and teachers are working together on the exercise program. SportUtrecht is developing a tailor-made plan so that the schools can continue independently after one year. Before the schools continue on their own, teachers will receive support in integrating games and sports activities into the school day.

Healthy school environment

The exercise program is not being carried out in isolation. The municipality, schools and SportUtrecht are working together in the areas of sports, education and health. They are working toward a healthy school environment, including healthy cafeterias and school lunches. Parents are also being involved in promoting a healthy lifestyle, a healthy weight and sufficient physical activity. The program will be evaluated in 2024, and from 2025 the municipality will expand its offering.

More information at www.utrecht.nl/sport