Oostzaan kids win vote: inclusive sports day to boost village health
Young residents of Oostzaan have spoken: a sports day for children with and without disabilities will soon become reality. The winning plan, chosen by the Children's Municipal Council, aims to make the village healthier and more inclusive for all kids.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Children's Municipal Council 2026 |
| Theme | Fit in your head and strong in your body |
| Winning School | The Noorderschool |
| Winning Proposal | Sports day for children with disabilities |
| Other Proposals | Walking/cycling competition, walking route with quiz, anti-bullying game |
| Location | Oostzaan, Noord-Holland |
| Mayor | Marvin Polak |
| Implementation | Winning plan will be executed |
The Municipality of Oostzaan supports youth participation in local governance through initiatives like the Children's Municipal Council. This program educates young residents about civic engagement while giving them a platform to influence community health and well-being policies.
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external link to whydonate.comRead the full translated article below
Children's Municipal Council of Oostzaan presents plans for a fitter and stronger village
This week, young residents presented their ideas for a mentally and physically healthier village in the council chamber of the town hall in Oostzaan. The students form the Children's Municipal Council 2026, this year with the theme ‘Fit in your head and strong in your body’.
After lessons on local politics, sixth-grade students could sign up for the Children's Municipal Council. The selected participants were then tasked with devising plans for a healthier Oostzaan. Prior to the presentations, the young councillors took the oath. They then presented their proposals to each other and to Mayor Marvin Polak. The students voted on the plans, just like in the real council. The winning idea will actually be implemented.
The proposals from the schools
The Rietkraag – Encouraging walking or cycling to schoolThe Rietkraag proposed a competition between all primary schools in Oostzaan. The school with the fewest cars in front of the building wins a playground equipment of their choice. The students emphasized that exercise is healthy and that fewer cars around schools are safer.
The Noorderschool – Sports day for children with disabilitiesThe Noorderschool presented a sports day where all activities are suitable for children with disabilities. Think of basketball, volleyball, and tag in a wheelchair. Children without disabilities can also participate, but must also use a wheelchair.
The Korenaar – Walking route with quiz questions through the villageStudents from The Korenaar want a walking path with quiz questions through Oostzaan. With this, they aim to encourage children to play outside more often and get more exercise. During the presentation, there was enthusiastic discussion about all the lemonade flavors that could be served at the opening.
The Kweekvijver – Action against bullyingStudents from The Kweekvijver advocated for an ‘Over the Line’ game at all primary schools. Students respond to statements about bullying by standing on one side of a line. The goal: raising awareness and talking about bullying behavior.
Debate and voting
After the presentations, the groups, together with adults from the municipal council, debated the proposals. Practical questions arose, such as where the activities should take place exactly and whether certain vehicles, such as a go-kart, are allowed or not.
In the end, the eleven young councillors cast their votes. The final vote made the difference: The Noorderschool won with the idea for a sports day for children with disabilities. Mayor Polak emphasized that the winning plan will indeed be implemented.