There are many ways to encourage your child to exercise, either with you or with other children. Check out the activities in your neighbourhood, such as:
- Swimming lessons for babies and toddlers
- Toddler gymnastics
- Toddler dancing
- Toddler judo
- Toddler yoga
Browse the website of your local council to see what’s on offer in your area. The Sportwijzer questionnaire can help you choose a fun sport for your child. Many neighbourhoods also have local sports coaches who can help. Use Google to see if there is one in your area.
Many Dutch municipalities host activities organised by Sjors Sportief, which plans a series of activities locally in collaboration with sports associations and creative organisations. Many of these activities are either cheap or free. Have a look at the website https://www.sjorssportief.nl for an overview of the activities in your neighbourhood.
Other websites with fun and practical tips:
- Gratis bewegen: this website contains a lot of fun and handy tips to exercise without spending money.
- PlayAdvisor: this website lists the best places to play and exercise, such as nice (free) play areas nearby.
- Kidsproof: here you will find an overview of activities and outings in your area that you can enjoy with your child.
Your children can play outdoors even if it’s raining. It’s often the parents who prefer to stay indoors when it’s raining, not the children, who love to play outside even when it’s cold or wet.
Are you on a low income or on benefits? And do you have little money to spend on exercising with your child? There are different organisations that can help.
Stichting Leergeld
Stichting Leergeld focuses on preventing social exclusion. This foundation helps 4- to 18-year-old children from low-income families, ensuring they can participate in fun activities at school and beyond. A few examples are school trips, music lessons or gym memberships.
For more information have a look at the website https://www.leergeld.nl/ouderinfo/
Your local council
You can also ask your local council for help. Many local councils help parents and children by providing them with funds or discount passes, such as the ‘Gelrepas’ provided by the municipality of Arnhem. The ‘Gelrepas’ gives the residents of Arnhem significant discounts or allows them to participate in various activities free of charge.
Don’t hesitate to ask your local council for more information.
