Working together to strengthen children's resilience and connection
On Wednesday, July 10th, it was finally happening: 150 children participated in the very first Superpower Day, especially for children experiencing or at risk of social isolation! Together with the KPN Mooiste Contact Fonds, we gave the participants a fantastic afternoon. Under the motto "The hunt for your superpower," the children were able to work on their self-confidence and resilience in a playful way. In 2025, we aim to expand these Superpower Days to reach many more children. We also want to strengthen online connections within this target group.
Discovering your own superpower
This first Superpower Day was held at the PEC Zwolle stadium. We invited children from grades 7 and 8 of primary schools in the region who are temporarily or permanently struggling at school and feel lonely or alone*. The event included peer contact, exciting games, an inspiring meeting with rapper Qucee, and a performance by singer Alessio.
In small groups, the children journeyed through five "worlds" where they could discover their own superpowers. For example, the games involved being yourself, overcoming adversity, and seizing opportunities. By completing all the challenges, the children ultimately unlocked a surprise performance by singer Alessio.
"I thought it was a really fun afternoon," says participant Bram. "I went with a friend, and we played games with other children all afternoon."
Content Creator Qucee spoke with the children and told them about his own childhood:
It's important for children to work on their resilience. When I was young, I thought I was the only child with mental health issues, but there are many more, and that's why I think it's important to work on this.
Roll out Superpower Days more widely
The Superpower Days are part of the strategic partnership recently established by the KPN Mooiste Contact Fonds and Kinderpostzegels. Based on our shared mission of "connecting together," we will be working over the next three years to help children who are socially isolated or at risk of becoming so. Sofie Vriends, director of Kinderpostzegels: "We want children to feel they're not alone and to break through their isolation. In 2025, we aim to expand the Superpower Days to reach many more children. Furthermore, we hope to strengthen online connections within this target group in the future, so that children and young people can discover and learn to use their own superpowers."
Even greater impact together
Mark Versteegen, director of the KPN Mooiste Contact Fonds, is also very enthusiastic about the collaboration with Kinderpostzegels. “Social contact is important to all of us. Online and offline connection isn't always easy for everyone. For over 15 years, the KPN Mooiste Contact Fonds has been connecting people, including children and young people. We utilize all possible communication techniques and resources, not to mention the dedication of thousands of KPN colleagues who volunteer. Our volunteers are also making a significant contribution to strengthening children's resilience during the past and upcoming Super Power Days. We are very proud of that.”
*Loneliness: a growing problem
Loneliness is a growing problem among children and young people. It's often linked to poverty or a difficult home life.
- 230,000 children in the Netherlands grow up in poverty.
- 1 in 4 children has a parent with an addiction or mental health problems.
- 1 in 8 children receives youth care.
Many of these children are completely alone. They struggle at school, their world shrinks, and they become isolated. Their lives lack a solid foundation for resilience.