By Anna de Vries, 17, Haarlem, Netherlands
June 30, 2025
As a Dutch teenager, I’ve grown up in a country repeatedly ranked as having the happiest kids in the world, according to UNICEF’s 2025 report. When I read about this, I wasn’t surprised, but I also wanted to share my perspective on why this might be true. It’s not just about eating chocolate sprinkles (hagelslag) for breakfast—though that’s a nice bonus! Here’s what I think makes Dutch kids like me so happy, based on my life and those of my friends.
Freedom to Roam
One of the biggest differences I notice compared to stories from kids in other countries, like the U.S., is how much freedom we have. By the time I was 9, I was biking to school on my own through Haarlem’s quiet streets. My parents trusted me to navigate, and that trust made me feel capable. Whether it’s cycling to a friend’s house or taking a train to Amsterdam, Dutch kids are given space to explore. This independence builds confidence and makes us feel like we’re in charge of our own adventures. It’s not just me—most of my friends bike or walk to school without parents hovering. According to a recent article, this “freedom of movement” is a key reason Dutch kids rank so high in happiness.
Less Pressure, More Play
School here feels different too. Don’t get me wrong, we study hard, but there’s less obsession with perfect grades. Our teachers encourage us to learn at our own pace, and we get plenty of time to play or hang out after school. I’ve heard from American friends about their packed schedules with homework and extracurriculars, but in the Netherlands, we’re encouraged to just be kids. My afternoons are often spent chilling at the park or playing football with friends, not rushing to tutoring. This balance makes me feel relaxed, not stressed. A UNICEF report noted that Dutch kids rank first in mental health, and I think this chill approach to school is a big part of it.
Parents Who Listen
Dutch parents are pretty open. My mom and dad always ask for my opinion, whether it’s about family plans or even serious topics like relationships. They don’t shy away from talking about things like sex or mental health, which makes me feel supported. It’s not about them being my best friends, but they respect me as a person. This openness creates a safe space where I can be myself. Experts say this parenting style, which values kids’ autonomy, is a big reason we’re so confident and happy.
A Culture of Rest
Another thing I love is how much we prioritize rest. My family has always had a routine—dinner together, early bedtimes when I was younger, and no overscheduling. I get enough sleep, which makes a huge difference in how I feel. In the Netherlands, it’s normal for kids to have consistent sleep schedules, and research shows this boosts our mood and focus. I remember visiting a cousin in another country where kids stayed up super late, and they were exhausted! Here, rest is sacred, and it keeps us energized for school and play.
Bikes, Friends, and Fun
Finally, it’s just fun to be a kid here. The Netherlands is built for us—safe bike paths, cool playgrounds, and places like the NEMO Science Museum or Efteling theme park make weekends exciting. Plus, 81% of Dutch teens say it’s easy to make friends, and I agree. Whether it’s grabbing ice cream with my crew or biking to the beach, there’s always something to do without needing a car or a parent. This freedom to connect with friends makes every day feel like an adventure.
Sure, it’s not perfect. The UNICEF report mentioned our academic skills have slipped a bit, with literacy and numeracy dropping to 49% among 15-year-olds. But honestly, I’d rather have a system that prioritizes my happiness over perfect test scores. Growing up Dutch means feeling trusted, respected, and free to enjoy life. That’s why I think we’re the happiest—and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.