paroolOct 30, 2026, 09:56

One press of the 'PlayBell' and parents get a notification: pilot project to encourage children to play outside more in Bos en Lommer

A new initiative called the 'SpelBel' has been launched in Amsterdam's Bos en Lommer neighborhood to encourage children to play outside by notifying parents via an app. Developed by Jantje Beton and ScrollScrollScroll, the project aims to remove social barriers for children who find it difficult to ask friends to play in person.

A pilot project featuring a new 'SpelBel' has been launched at Hertspieghelplein in the Bos en Lommer neighborhood of Amsterdam. Children can press a button on a sign attached to a lamppost, which triggers a notification to registered parents via an app, informing them that children are playing in the playground. This initiative, developed by Jantje Beton and ScrollScrollScroll, aims to reduce the social anxiety many children feel when knocking on friends' doors to ask them to play.

The project addresses findings from research by Jantje Beton, which indicated that one in four children find it intimidating to visit friends' homes unannounced. By using a QR code on the sign, parents can join the network to coordinate outdoor activity. The Amsterdam pilot, which is also running in Breda and Enschede, is scheduled to last at least three months. City officials hope this digital bridge will encourage more children to get outside during the autumn months and foster stronger community connections.

Culture Lifestyle Amsterdam Netherlands

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Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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