Children in the Netherlands have again taken first place for wellbeing among developed countries in a new UNICEF study. At the same time, the Netherlands itself ranks only fifth in the global happiness index for adults.
The main factor is said to be the quality of social connections. Dutch children are more likely to feel supported. Part-time work has long been common in the country among both mothers and fathers. As a result, parents spend more time with their children, take part in their lives and maintain a closer emotional bond.
Bullying is relatively rare in Dutch schools, and a ban on using smartphones during lessons helps reduce digital pressure and bring attention back to face-to-face interaction. Experts also point to the high level of gender equality, which helps create a more stable support system for children.
A distinctive feature of the Dutch approach is the development of independence. Parents involve children in decision-making and give them more freedom in everyday life. The urban environment also helps: safe streets and a well-developed cycling infrastructure allow many children to travel to school and activities on their own.
Experts note that the country also faces difficulties. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, indicators of children’s mental wellbeing and academic performance have worsened, levels of school stress have risen, and child poverty remains unresolved. In response, youth centres and support programmes for teenagers are being developed in different parts of the country.
Interestingly, many elements of the Dutch model do not require huge budgets. Sometimes it is enough to create more space for parents to spend time with their children, make streets safer or help teenagers find a place where they are willing to listen to them.
