What if we saw the city through a child’s eyes?
What happens when we truly involve children in conversations about their living environment?
Some of the sharpest insights come from them — often expressed in a single sentence that might take professionals much longer to articulate. Perhaps it’s time we start looking at the future of our cities more often through the eyes of younger generations. Fewer assumptions, more listening: that’s what they show us. Because if you really want to understand what’s happening in a neighbourhood, you have to give young people a voice.
The National Day of Children’s Mayors 2026 was an inspiring and energetic event. It remains remarkable to see how young people from across the Netherlands engage with such openness, clarity and enthusiasm — with each other, as well as with policymakers and professionals — about their living environment.
From green schoolyards to the question of how neighbourhoods can better encourage outdoor play, their ideas were concrete, thoughtful and often strikingly perceptive. During the networking session with Lisa van der Slot (architect and partner at De Zwarte Hond), it became clear once again how clearly and openly young urban residents reflect on these themes.
This perspective is incredibly valuable. At De Zwarte Hond, we take it seriously in how we design and think about the city — not as an afterthought, but as an essential part of the conversation.
Our thanks to all organisations and participants for the energy, insights and meaningful encounters.