With SpeelTHijd in de Wijk (Playtime in the Neighborhood), various municipal services go into the neighborhoods together to engage with children and young people. A van full of play and sports equipment, a street football cage with its accompanying Panna Cup, a mobile playground, creative activities, and sports challenges ensure they can play to their heart's content in their own area. Additionally, they get acquainted with regular youth work offerings through the presence of the youth service. In 2026, SpeelTHijd visited no fewer than 21 different neighborhoods, placing a mobile playground in 12 of them.
However, the initiative is much more than just playtime. While children are having fun, neighbors meet each other over a cup of coffee or a piece of cake. Neighborhood workers, municipal services, and policymakers engage with residents in an accessible way, giving them the opportunity to share their ideas, questions, and needs.
Staff from the social services department and volunteers from the Digipunt (Digital Point) and the sports department also join various neighborhood visits. For instance, during eight neighborhood visits, residents could participate in accessible workouts under the banner Fitte Zomer On THour (Fit Summer On Tour), organized by the sports department, and discover new sports activities.
Through SpeelTHijd in de Wijk, the municipality is building warm neighborhoods where everyone feels welcome and residents are truly heard. It brings services closer to the people and creates space for encounters, participation, and connection.
“"Do you want to help this initiative grow? Then vote for SpeelTHijd in de Wijk in the Matexi Awards. Voting is open until November 16th. Be sure to validate your vote via your mailbox."
