An increasing number of daycare centers and schools in the Netherlands are banning birthday treats, including healthy snacks, to promote healthier eating habits, reduce competition among parents, and lessen the financial burden on families, according to Trouw.
In the past, it was common for children to bring items like decorated mandarins, raisin boxes, or fruit skewers to share with classmates. However, this tradition is fading. Kind&co Ludens, which operates around 500 childcare locations in the central Netherlands, has recently implemented a policy banning all birthday treats, even those considered healthy, such as fruit.
Carlie Mulders, the manager of pedagogy and quality at Kind&co Ludens, explained, “It became increasingly difficult to ensure parents followed the guidelines for healthy treats.” She added that parents were also bringing non-food items like plastic trinkets, which no longer fit with the institution’s sustainability goals.
The new policy shifts the focus from food to activities. Birthdays are now celebrated with special activities or decorations, without the need for gifts or snacks. The change also aims to reduce the financial strain on families, especially those struggling to afford treats for large groups.
Blos Kinderopvang, which runs about 300 daycare locations, has adopted a similar approach. While children still celebrate their birthdays, they now enjoy non-food activities such as wearing a festive hat, receiving special attention, or choosing a game to play.
Tilly de Jong, who leads the campaign “If It’s Your Birthday, Celebrate,” advocates for moving away from treat-centered celebrations. She emphasizes the social and economic inequalities caused by the pressure to provide extravagant birthday treats.
“There are families who can’t afford treats for an entire class, and then there are parents who go overboard,” de Jong said. “One school in Hilversum had a parent bring a pizza truck to the schoolyard. The competition has gotten out of hand.”
At MKC Zeeburgereiland De Optimist, a primary school in Amsterdam, treats were banned about 18 months ago as part of the school’s healthy eating policy. School leader Merel van Lier said the decision addressed issues related to dietary restrictions.
“Some children eat halal, others are gluten-free, some are allergic to dairy, and others are vegan,” Van Lier explained. “This often led to exclusions, which didn’t feel right.”
At De Optimist, birthdays are now celebrated with activities like personalized cards, songs, or group games. Although some children initially missed the treats, the transition has been smooth. “A few children mentioned missing the treats, but overall, we’ve had no major complaints from parents,” Van Lier added.
Marjet Winsemius of the Foundation for Working Parents (Stichting Voor Werkende Ouders) said the move away from treats has been a relief for many parents. “Parents no longer have to stress about preparing the perfect snack the night before their child’s birthday,” she said.
Winsemius also pointed out that elaborate treats often create tension among families with limited resources. “Some parents arrive with almost nothing because they can’t afford it, and they’re judged for it. The pressure to outdo others is unnecessary and stressful.”
Related topics:
