Videos like yours make me aware we are quite well off here, making me more proud of this ""weird"" country. TYVM But you are still in the ""newlywed state of mind"" and have an advantage (Johann Cruijff said it like this"" Every disadvantage has its advantages"") by not having mastered the Dutch yet, and we Dutch though like ppl trying to speak/understand etc. our language we 9/10 speak English quite reasonably, and it is the road of least resistance that causes this, you are not getting to practice using Dutch much, many foreigners/ tourists/expats etc. think we just show of our English skill, but it is really Dutch don't like to waste their time much/ pragmatism.
@6:38 Speaking of typical Dutch scene: Noticed the little girl repairing her bike with dad on a warm summer evening. And her little brother on a balance bike. That short scene says it all IMO. You can't script that. Fabulous
No bucketbike though with 2 kids in a bucket and dad biking. That would've the perfect one or just a student with a bucketbike with a washingmachine in it.
im in Denmark, and i remember all the times my dad would repair my biketires when i was a kid, i would stand next to him with the tireiron and the rubberpatches in my hands, watching closely how he did. flipping the bike, so that he could unscrew the wheel and remove the chain and everything. Once i got older, maybe around 16 or so, whenever my mums bike would get a flat tire, i would be the one fixing it, in the yard :P not that my dad didnt want to, but because he knew, i would feel some kind of achievement, looking out for my mum too, with the "knowledge" and experience he gave me earlier. Damn, being a kid was a good time ^^
It is not only about the freedom the Dutch children have but that also comes with the responsibility to behave correctly, come home on time, etc. Also the children come home with their stories. Parent have to listen to these stories which will give these children more self respect. The whole package make the children more happy.
Jordan I grew up in the Netherlands in the late 40's and 50's and even when I went to school, Wednesday afternoons were free, I moved to Australia in 1966, been back many times (14), but I still miss the old country and besides the weather, if I had another chance, I would never leave the Netherlands to live somewhere else and by the way, I've done well here in Melbourne. Keep on making these videos, highly appreciated.
Wednesday and Saturday afternoon were 'school free'. Up to 1963 or 1964 school was on all days except Sunday. In 1962 the five days workweek was introduced, but schools followed two years later. And We. and Sa. afternoon there was a kids television program at 5 pm.
Same here bro. I moved to Canada at the end of 1972, all who well I too have done very very well here in Ontario . But if I could turn the clock back I don't think I would make the same move again and i would stay in The Hague
We say: 'there is no bad weather, only bad clothing'. When I was a kid I got so dirty by playing outside, that my mother picked me up at the frontdoor and put me fully dressed in the shower to get off most of the dirt first 😂. My mom always said: on the backside you can see the kids were clean before they went outside.
You're right. But as a former boys scout I must tell you that you are walking on the the wrong side of the road / bike lane. You must face the traffic on the left so you can see what's coming. On the right lane everything happens behind you.
Thank you for telling me this! I'll be sure to be more mindful of this in the future (ignore it in my next few videos though--I filmed those before reading your comment).
@@JordanGreenYT its not a big deal, but its true. As a pedestrian walking on a road or bikepath you walk against the traffic. As a runner myself I notice that about 50% actually do this. So its no biggie
Yep it is safety 1st, VVN (safe traveling NL-road safety board) teaches this to us from a young age. If things run up to youon your back you cant see then coming, so your better of walking into traffic then you can see them and wont be blindsided when there are no walkways.
This is wrong, you are free to walk on either side. In fact, when the bike lane (I mean only bikes/pedestrians allowed, not mixed road) is busy, it is better to walk in the same directions as the bike go. For bikes, it is far easier to stay behind a pedestrian going the same way when there is no room to pass. Especially runners should do that, considering they move faster. I do live near a bike lane that is both busy with bikes and pedestrians, and the ones going the other way do create issues. And the idea that when walking against the stream means that pedestrians see the bikes coming and could go out of the way is good in theory, but in reality rarely happens. Edit: Before you comment that I am wrong, please first look it up. The VVN site clearly says you can choose as a pedestrian. Depending on the situation, it can change what is best. If you want to look up the law: search RVV article 4. (It says nothing about a side to walk on). I understand the impulse to correct me, I was taught the same (always walk left), but that is simply no longer the case.
@@smokerx6291 Epic self burn. Imagine living in a richer place.. yet unable to provide happiness, impressive infrastructure nor a functioning society in many ways.. sad (btw look up the freedom index, democracy index, healthcare, Human Development oh and.. the Global Safety Index, where the US is ranked at place 132 out of a total of 164 countries.. just 1 spot above Iran!) Oh and gun deaths is the main cause of deaths for kids, gg guys!
@@smokerx6291 way to stereotype yourself. US might be rich, but what do they do with those riches? it all goes to people who never really use it for anything useful.
- Just a small correction: bike lanes are usually _not_ meant to be walked on, this is only the case in some rural areas or very specific locations & its usually marked with signs if so (sign of pedestrian and cyclist next to each other) - When walking on a road or bike lane you should always try and walk against traffic, because that way you see the vehicles for the lane you are walking in coming towards you, meaning _you_ can get off the road if they don't notice you, if you follow the direction of traffic you can't see what is coming up behind you and attempting to use the same space as you (one of the things we learn as Dutch kids hehe) - The thing about wednesday afternoons is just a tradition, the source isn't entirely clear. It's mostly so the kids get a little break from learning, but it also helps the teachers (gives them time to grade or prepare stuff etc in work hours) & it gives parents opportunity to do more with their kids when they are young.
Article 4 RVV1990 (Dutch trafic regulation) 1. Pedestrians use the sidewalk or the footpath. 2. They use the cycle path or the cycle/moped path if there is no sidewalk or footpath. 3. They use the verge or the outermost side of the carriageway if there is also no cycle path or cycle/moped path. 4. Notwithstanding the first and second paragraphs, persons who move around with the aid of objects other than vehicles use the cycle path, the cycle/moped path, the sidewalk or the footpath. They use the carriageway if there is no cycle path, a cycle/moped path, a sidewalk or a footpath.
As a Dutch person, I played outside so often. At some point, my little brother and I just went on adventures by ourselves in the park, the playground nearby or the neighborhood. When I was 11, I went to the playground at my school to play, which was a little further. I do have to mention, though, that I do see a difference these last couple of years. I teach 4-6 year-olds, and a lot of children don't play outside when school's out. It might have to do with that they're living in a big city. WOW.... kids got shot for ding dong ditching??? That is insane... I used to stand in front of the door after ringing the bell to make it more exciting than to run away. Another FYI, I do see a growing focus on school results. As teachers, we often try to help the parents focus on the process rather than the results as we never stop learning. Also, it depends per school whether children are out earlier on Wednesday. Our school has the same hours every day. Schools are allowed to fill in the hours themselves as long as they teach the required hours to the kids. This set up also creates off days for the kids so there's study time for teachers.
I like the way you're so earnestly researching the Dutch way of things. And btw... Me and my man were 24 when our first child arrived! 😊 Our reason? When you get them early, you will have (hopefully) lots of time left to enjoy life as empty nesters! And guess what? It worked out beautifully. I wish you a happy life with us in the Netherlands
It only rains 8% of the time and it hardly ever freezes. Even in your video it's nice sunny weather when it's end of november. As a kid i never cared about the weather too much. Just hopped on the bike and went anywhere without parental supervision.
you will learn to just ignore the weather and just do what you was planning to do either way. weather should not be an excuse in a country where it rains so much. just adept and live your life. we pay a lot of taxes, but at least a part of that is used for infrastructure and keeping everything clean and maintained. and we can see results. (still no one likes tax of course, but at least we see some of it being used for a good cause)
Jordan. I Would love to see you start streaming regularly again. Your live streams got me through some really rough times and I still re-listen to them from time to time. Congratulations on your new life in Europe!!!
Look at (about) minute 6:40 in the backround. That little kid crossing the road. That really shows how Dutch biking starts. ps Some advise to the 'foreigners': If you really have to walk on the bikelane, please do so on the other side of the road. Where you can see the bikes coming towards you. Just a little tip here.
lol, the "Dutch weather is nothing to write home about".. :) We still have the 4 seasons here in the Netherlands. If you can chill in the sun with your shorts on or go to the beach in "winter".. it's not really winter.. lmao.. But yeah, even we Dutch complain about the weather.. and we grow up with it haha.
I just saw an ABC video where a mom was arrested because her 11 year old walked into town to the Dollar Store a few minutes down the road. Completely baffling to a Dutch parent.
A looooong time ago I was an au pair in the States. I was completely baffled that "my" kids weren't allowed to walk to school by themselves, despite their school being at walking distance and no busy streets. We were walking to school alone at age 5 in 1980's Netherlands. I must say that the parents of my kids were totally cool with giving their kids more freedom, however, the school explicitly forbade it.
I remember seeing a video of a father who almost got arrested cos he let his kids go to school by themselves using public transport. Can’t remember if it was the US or Canada. Also completely baffling to us.
The hierarchy here in the Netherlands is less prevalent than in the US for example, that also shows in how kids interact with their teachers. It teaches us at a young age that everyone's ideas matter, everyone's perspective matters, regardless of your position or age, this in turn creates more confident and well rounded adults. I appreciate your pov Jordan, I hope you and your gf will be content wherever you decide to settle down. 😊🌷
Jordan Alexander Green out here dropping some more game, walking the bike lane. You love to see it. Great video again as always. Hope you guys are well. Much love bro 💙
As a kid, about 11-12 years old, we were doing these so called droppings. A group of kids was dropped somewhere in the forrest, in the dark and then had to find back the way to the camp/club/base. No phones, no GPS. I thought it was great. Some time ago, I tried to explain this to some American collegues, but they didn't understand 😂
I mean, dropping your child off in the forest at night with no phone or GPS is peak irresponsible 😂😂😂 BUT it sounds kinda fun with a group of friends🤷🏾♀️ You survived
Droppings are great. But forests in the Netherlands are not quite the same as in the usa. No dangerous animals (may since 5 years wolves), a house or road within a couple of kilometers
I think leaving America would hurt me more. However, if you dont have nothing to lose in your life even your careers in America, then go for it. I might travel to the Netherlands as a tourist.
Hi Jordan, it seems you really like the Netherlands. Good for you. And your kids. America is such a great country but life is definitely better here I guess.
Loving your clear cut, somewhat dry analysis of our country, because we are not very braggadocios people and don't like tooting our own horn (in general) it does feel nice to be presented the fun and good stuff we often forget about because we love to complain! Groeten uit Brabant!
After visiting a few countries over the last few years, I've definitely been bitten by the international travel bug. I would love to take the leap and move abroad (if even for a short time), but I think that ship has sailed at 35. However, I appreciate these types of videos and your insights, Jordan. Thanks!
What is also nice about playing outside is that the children may become friends for life. In my case I kept in touch with a few of them, but last year after 40 years we met each other again in our home village. Since then we keep in touch via a WhatsApp group.
As i understand children under the age of 12 get a lot of homework in the US. Overhere that is not the case. The schoolingsystem is set up to make sure the kid likes school and that will stimulate the childs development. You can correct me if i understood the US schoolingsystem wrong
Good observation about the different school levels. It also means that you only have to meet the treshold to go over to the next year. You don't have to perform to the max, you don't have to show you are smarter than your classmates. It's about learning rather than being performance measured to be top of the class. Cylings lessons were introduced when I was in primary school, which I cycled to when there still were far less bike lanes and we had to avoid the route with dangerous crossings. A lot is just culture, infrastructure followed, the cycling turning point started with children have to be able to play in the streets safely in the big cities. Dutch parents kick their children out, go play outside I don't want you here, get some fresh air, make friends, be active. And learn, play stands in high regard because it's fun but also a way of learning. Children learn a lot more from their peers than from adults when they are older. The break even point is around 12 or something.
Yes, i think you are spot on about the Dutch schooling system. And man, those (nation wide) shorter wednesday schooldays really were a blessing to me. Pitty it only was/is in primary school and not in secondary school.
Great video, thank you! 🙏🏼 I have fond memories of playing outside with my friends as a kid, too- and also of the freedom my bike gave me, especially as a teenager (and still!). Now I have a 17 year old son and I am SO glad I don't have to drive him around. He too, I bet 😉 And: almost all drivers here ride bikes as well, so that makes them extra aware of bike traffic
We were kids, second class elementary school. One day we found a car, it was an Opel. We found it, and we did not have a clue how to get it home. It was unlocked and therefore we could play in it. We tried to get the buttons lose. Suddenly another car stopped and two men rushed out towards 'our' car. Me and my friend we both ran away, both in an other direction, the men did not get us. The next day the father of my friend told us that we should not have fled to my friends house, there was a complain about us. But we honestly found the car in the streets. We had a very happy childhood.
We do have a lot of parcs. We need them too, because we're a very dense populated country. Lots of waterways too. Probably the most waterways in the world.
I have another reason why more kids are outside. At least this goes for me when I was young, and a lot of friends of mine (not all friends but a lot of them). My parents would get mad if i where inside during the day. After school was not really a problem, although I still was outside a lot. But off days like the weekends, I would get kicked out. Go play outside, is the phrase that came up a lot. If I would say, I don't know what to do, they would simply reply with; Think of something, go, get! And there I was together with other kids outside, fishing, climbing trees, playing warr with fake pistols, catching bugs and frogs. All the good stuff. Parents need to step up and just shoo there kids outside. I don't mean lock them outside, but push them outand then when they show up after half an hour because they are bored or no other kids are outside, sure let them play with legos or what not. But please enforce some parental power and force the kids to go and play with friends etc. It was really normal where I lived. Result was that every day every minute I had, I went to a friends house to play soccer or whatever. And when he had other friends over you get to know other people (I moved a few times this is how i learned to meet new people). For real, don't underestemate kids social lifes! It is a foundation of the grown man or woman they become.
:::::::::: 4:16 If you walk on the other side of the road, if you would walk against the traffic, you would see the traffic coming, and you would not get hit by traffic in your back. It''s lot safer.
Did you know you are walking on the wrong side of the bike lane all the time? You should walk on the wrong side so you can see oncoming traffic - and you are a guest on the "mandatory" bike-lane. If needed you are the one that should step aside off the bike lane in the rare case it is needed ;-)
Yes we do go outside , I always go to the park with my child , take walks when I can with her. If you live in the city I'm from Rotterdam you can also find something to do with kids , nature.
Yeah, schoolfree wednesday-afternoons are a nationwide thing. They are usually filled with a club, sport or friends. There used to be cartoons as well. Not sure if that's still a thing. Also: Bikepath rule #8: always walk on the opposite side (into the biketraffic) so you can see the traffic coming. Cheers.
Meneer je loopt op het fietspad wij hebben een stoep waar je op moet lopen Meneer.en ja we klagen over het weer maar ik zou nergens anders willen wonen we zijn vrij.💯👍
I ding dong ditched a guy that i didnt like with my friend in 2012!! It felt good!! About the school, there are many times i wish i could of gotten out early so i agree with you on that! I also hate school! I would never go back.
I used to ding dong ditched alone sometimes😂 I would pick a door close to the street/curb, wait for a random pedestrian heading in my direction, estimate how much time it would take for that stranger to pass by the door I picked, then ring the bell and ditch, quickly hide somewhere I could still see the door, and then watch 2 people being very confused and awkward 😂
The whole biking thing and the construction of all the cycling infrastructure really began in the 70's as a way to make streets safer, especially for children. So as a result right now, children can go as they please and really dont need adult supervision. This is obviously great for the children, but also for the parents because it obviously saves a lot of time and they dont need to helicopter parent as much. What most parents do is just track the phone of their kids so they can quickly see if they went to school, or sportspractice or the park or whatever what was agreed upon.
@@JordanGreenYT Hah, I was one of those kids, im from 1980. As children, we really looked after each other. It was more about the social connections back then. We all knew each other parents and they had contact between them about what was agreed. So, lets say I leave for school at 8 in the morning, and it was agreed I would pick up my friend Jimmy at 08:10. If I wouldnt be there, Jimmy's mom would call my mom of course so even at a young age I knew I couldnt just bail without getting in trouble. And of course the school would call the parents if we werent there at 08:30... And so on and so forth. But I do feel like that really taught me to have some sort of responsability from a young age onward. I could totally bail yeah... but did I think I would get away with that? Do I want to deal with the consequences like getting grounded if I didnt? You know... life skill man!
@@JordanGreenYTthey just told us be home at a certain time. Or call (land line) when you’re at a friends house and you’re staying over longer than planned.
I got a nintendo (8bit with Duck Hunt!!) but I had to play outside before I could nintendo which I played with her. And like I said in an answer before, all sports had summer camps and the scouts ofc. In the summer I usually went 3 weeks on summer camps.
In certain circles in the UK and USA the countryside is seen as the ideal place to bring up children, so your idea that high density housing promotes children's health and happiness is interesting. I hadn't thought of it before, but it makes sense when you think how easy it is to walk or cycle to see your friends in NL, which wouldn't be possible in rural UK or USA.
This exactly why i did not want to live outside a city or village. You have to bring your child everywhere. To friends, to sport, to school. Much easier if everything and everyone lifes max 10 minutes biking. So your child can go on their own.
The US is known for its multicultural society, which can present various challenges regarding safety and social integration. For instance, in Sweden, there is a noticeable concern among native residents about allowing children or women to walk alone in areas with significant immigrant populations from Africa and Mid-Eastern regions. This concern stems from perceived differences in cultural attitudes towards women and children. When a country has a homogenous culture, its citizens often share similar values, traditions, and customs. However, with the arrival of large numbers of immigrants from diverse cultures, there can be tension as both groups navigate their differences and customs. Incompatible cultures don't integrate, and locals must change their way because the most aggressive culture always dominates.
Well, that's a problem. The assumption that Africans or people from Middle Eastern backgrounds don't have the same values and therefore should be looked at as a potential threat. Most people just want to raise their families, keep their head down, and pay their bills.
@@thejasminediaz This is not based on assumptions but rather on personal experiences and observations. Naturally, it depends on the individual, and there are many families who seek a better life by moving from the Middle East or Africa to Northern Europe. However, the majority of violent crimes currently are committed by immigrants from these regions. The police in Sweden have reported that they are not adequately trained or equipped to handle this kind of violence. In August this year, Denmark announced it was tightening its border controls with Sweden to combat the threat posed by immigrant gangs. Additionally, educational standards in schools are being lowered to ensure that immigrant children have a better chance of passing their classes. These observations are based on actual events and statements, not assumptions.
Don't forget that here in the Netherlands, one of the richest countries in the world, there are also many children who go to school without having breakfast due to poverty. Not everyone lives in the kind of neighbourhood you walk through in this video.
We are a rapidly growing nation, and we would benefit from having people like you and your future family here. I would definitely like to see more liberal Americans move to the Netherlands or even to Europe. It would make us stronger. I wish you and your "girl" all the best in life.
I started out doing VWO Atheneum in highschool. But I never really had any academic goals or dreams. I went to HAVO in third grade by my own choice. Then I ended up doing MBO, because I enjoyed working with my hands more than academics. Never regretted my choices. I think I would be miserable if I was forced to be a bookworm.
Whether it's the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland,.one of the Baltics, Sweden, Norway, Denmark or Finland doesn't make much of a difference. All of them are fine, plus maybe more, which I don't know as well. Children tend to have more fun in the forest than in parks. Therefore, Germany and the Baltics may be the best. Bike lanes in the Netherlands are unsurpassed, though.
The Netherlands is trying to encourage other EU countries to follow their example on infrastructure planning and cycling so all of Europe has proper infra standards compared to the Netherlands. How is your Dutch by the way?.
To say that 'research has shown that Dutch children are amongst the happiest children in the world' is an understatement. Research, every year again and again like clockwork, has shown that Dutch children are THE happiest children in the world. As in: ranked No. 1. For many years now....
In Europe, children walk to kindergarten and primary school on their own. The children of my niece do that now and I used to do this when I was a child.
Dutch children play outside unattended and more independent. No helicopter parents, at least not much. The moment they learn to ride a bicycle (4-6 yo) their independence starts growing. They learn the traffic rules while cycling and walking with their parents and at school. Children independently ride a bicycle, take public transport or walk to school, friends etc. Children have a (little) saying in certain decisions like Holliday destinations, sports they play. And probably the most important is they can get chocolate sprinkles on bread😅
A weakness of the Dutch education system is what we call the 'sixes-culture', as in getting 6 out of 10 grades. If you discuss it with your gf she will know what it means. It's about not getting pushed beyond good enough to pass exams.
It depends, my neighbors moved to Dubai and then came back after 6 months because their kids struggled to find friends to play with and were depressed (at 8/10 years old) because they felt isolated and out of place, they missed playing football and hanging out with the neighbors kids here (switzerland) and they didn't even grow up here, they grew up in Florida and despite not speaking any german back then they instantly found a ton of friends (girls and boys) when they moved here. So the "best place to raise your kids" can differ for different parents and kids.
I agree with the safety-parts. I disagree with all other parts. I grew up in The Netherlands in the 2000s and 2010s and my experience isn’t as bright as you portray it. The road-construction is a spider-web. You never know what you’re getting yourself into, until it’s right in front of you and that is scary. Sometimes there are bicycle-roads and sometimes you have to drive on the car-roads, it’s always a hit-or-miss and driving on the car-roads as a cyclist is dangerous. Even though the education system is great, it wasn’t always like that. When I had my primary school test to see what high school I had to go to, they schooled me in VMBO, and I wish they chose lower class, because it was a struggle to get to the next year with unreasonably low grades and eventually a failure. I didn’t have the opportunity to go to college because the expectation were too high. I’m doing low-end jobs like cleaning, not because I enjoy it, but because our system doesn’t provide us better opportunities. About the social aspect: in the early years of primary school, children visit other children’s homes and play together. When entering high school, it’s either playing online video games together or not talking until the next day. We don’t often text each other, the way it is portrayed in the movies. Only to ask questions about homework or tests.
As a Dutchie You know what my way of Ding Dong ditching was when i was a kid? I bought a universal remote control for televisions. And every evening i checked what houses the tv was on then i zapped the channel and run away. I remember doing this to 1 household a lot. And a week later there television was at the street to be picked up by the garbage guy. I told my parents. They made me contact that family to tell them what i did. Fortunate there television was not picked up yet. And it did not rain. So the television was working fine. My mother told me if there tv was broke because of the rain i had to buy a new tv for them out of my own savings. Well after that i was done playing the ding dong ditch on my way 😂😂
Nah you're devious for that 💀 We call it knock and run and I was never a mischievous kid... I remember one Sunday afternoon throwing/kicking a soccer ball at a metal box attached to this house in my neighbourhood (I think it was an electrics box) like once or twice... never again. I felt so bad when the homeowner came out and told me about how it had impacted them with the noise and what not.
Here's an idea for the kids of today in other countries, to enhance their 'ding dong ditching'. When there is enough snow outside to make a nice big heavy ball of snow.. Take a stone, that is higher then the door opening of a house, put a piece of wood on the door opening and the stone and place the ball of snow on the wood. Now, that ball is leaning against the door, until it is opened .......... It brings all kinds of nastiness to your victims, but in the end, it is just water, so stuff gets wet, but not actually destroyed. Have at it, treat your neighbors !
i like your comments. one minor comment, since you are on a path for ‘faster’ traffic ie bikes you should be walking on the ‘wrong side’ of the road. there is a logic to it, makes sence but i am not going to bother you ;) keep it up
Dutch children are more ouyside than anywhere else? 30 years ago you could hear kids playing outside everywhere, but nowadays I seldom hear or see kids outside. When I was young I used to be amnd play outside ALL the time. Only rain could be a spoiler, other than that we lived outside. I guess nowadays social media and pc games are the norm.
You think things through a lot deeper than most of the people I know do. Maybe it's because you're compairing life here with life in the USA. I noticed that you - like many Americans that make these videos - are made scared of a lot of things by living in the USA. Scared you'll get hit by a car, or a bike; scared to get truancy punishments and many other things. IF you'll get punishments here, they'll probably be more like staying at school for an extra hour, or something like that. A few weeks ago I was pulled from the bike lane by an American, because I walked there. "You can get run over" was what he said. 😀. Here people don't run over other people just because they walk where they're not supposed to walk. They just steer around them. Just like people in cars. They tend to be more aggressive vocally, but mostly just when they're IN their car. Of course there are some that do crazy stuff, but there are those in every country. That's not the norm.
Why do Americans romanticize Europe so much? People are individuals. I see plenty of children playing outside. I hope you're are happy in the Netherlands. If you don't like the US, I hope you know that you don't have to come back. I don't mean that in a rude way. You seem like a nice guy, but I get tired of seeing Americans more abroad, but can only find negative things to say about the US. Stay where you are happy. If you life sucked in the US, blame yourself, not the whole country. I have driven across the US many times and every place is different. Parks don't make people happy. Believe me, bro. Are they happy when they're walking around in blackface? I'm just saying. They have some issues as well. The Netherlands is no paradise, my friend. Enjoy the Netherlands.
There are so many variables you are not touching on concerning the freedom of children in the two countries. Such as: ( In America) the volume of human trafficking, crime (gangs having young kids commit crimes because they won’t get harsh jail time), drugs, school shootings, the level of trust of the judicial system, and racial profiling. Also, the only time children in America can go into a store for free treats is on Halloween.
There is a law in the Netherlands that you as a car driver in the dark, must asume there are people on bikes without Lights. In an accident, the car driver will in many cases the person who is the cause of the accident, law rules
people grow up riding bicycles and watch therefor out for other people almost automaticly. Aside from the fact that we have a bicycle first rule in the way that if you hit a person riding a bicycle you are the responsible party so you need to pay not the cyclist.
Just wanted to ask (deep I know) but what does success/purpose look like to you in your life right now? What is it that gets you out of bed each day? What do you want your lasting legacy to be? I know 'Built Different' era Jordan wanted to flex on those who rejected him, and wanted the fame and fortune, but I'm pretty certain that's not the case nowadays. Are you still focusing on being a writer, do you have plans on uploading more frequently on TH-cam etc? I don't mean to get all up in your business. Was just curious because I've been having this dilemma about what success looks like in life, and am just curious on what it looks like to you. Stay blessed bro 💙🥂
I appreciate you for asking bro! Right now, I'm much more focused on freedom than flexing. I'm still putting all the pieces together (writing, TH-cam, etc.), but the image is starting to become clearer.
I dont have stats for it but i think Dutch children are also happier because i feel like abusive households are uncommon here. This is anecdotal, but i personally dont know anyone who has a bad relationship with their parents or had a shitty home situation in their childhood. Not to say that it doesn’t happen here, but perhaps less so than in (most) other countries
I do feel like younger children here are less inclined to be on their phones---especially when with their friends. Teenagers are probably pretty similar though.
As a Dutch mom of teenage girls: I notice that that TikTok and instagram plays a huge role in their life. They keep in contact with their peers online but also still go for shopping with their friends. Sometimes you see teenagers hanging outside but that is mostly not concidered positive at all .
Dear Jordan, you forgot to mention about the number of school shootings in the US, which is staggering. There were 83 school shootings this year and still counting. You also forgot to mention that firearms killed more children and teens, ages 1 to 17, than any other cause, including car crashes. Averaging to nearly 7 deadly victims a day. With a disproportionatel affect to colored people. We don't have a such a thing as your damned 2nd amendment. That is one of the reasons our children can live safe and happily in the Netherlands (and Europe) compared to the US.
Something BIG is coming to my Instagram soon. Click the link to follow me so that you don't miss it! instagram.com/greenxjordan/
Videos like yours make me aware we are quite well off here, making me more proud of this ""weird"" country. TYVM
But you are still in the ""newlywed state of mind"" and have an advantage (Johann Cruijff said it like this"" Every disadvantage has its advantages"") by not having mastered the Dutch yet, and we Dutch though like ppl trying to speak/understand etc. our language we 9/10 speak English quite reasonably, and it is the road of least resistance that causes this, you are not getting to practice using Dutch much, many foreigners/ tourists/expats etc. think we just show of our English skill, but it is really Dutch don't like to waste their time much/ pragmatism.
@6:38 Speaking of typical Dutch scene: Noticed the little girl repairing her bike with dad on a warm summer evening. And her little brother on a balance bike. That short scene says it all IMO. You can't script that. Fabulous
I also noticed that! That is very typical indeed. Biking is in our DNA.
No bucketbike though with 2 kids in a bucket and dad biking. That would've the perfect one or just a student with a bucketbike with a washingmachine in it.
im in Denmark, and i remember all the times my dad would repair my biketires when i was a kid, i would stand next to him with the tireiron and the rubberpatches in my hands, watching closely how he did. flipping the bike, so that he could unscrew the wheel and remove the chain and everything. Once i got older, maybe around 16 or so, whenever my mums bike would get a flat tire, i would be the one fixing it, in the yard :P not that my dad didnt want to, but because he knew, i would feel some kind of achievement, looking out for my mum too, with the "knowledge" and experience he gave me earlier. Damn, being a kid was a good time ^^
It is not only about the freedom the Dutch children have but that also comes with the responsibility to behave correctly, come home on time, etc. Also the children come home with their stories. Parent have to listen to these stories which will give these children more self respect. The whole package make the children more happy.
Jordan I grew up in the Netherlands in the late 40's and 50's and even when I went to school, Wednesday afternoons were free, I moved to Australia in 1966, been back many times (14), but I still miss the old country and besides the weather, if I had another chance, I would never leave the Netherlands to live somewhere else and by the way, I've done well here in Melbourne. Keep on making these videos, highly appreciated.
Wednesday and Saturday afternoon were 'school free'. Up to 1963 or 1964 school was on all days except Sunday. In 1962 the five days workweek was introduced, but schools followed two years later. And We. and Sa. afternoon there was a kids television program at 5 pm.
Same here bro. I moved to Canada at the end of 1972, all who well I too have done very very well here in Ontario . But if I could turn the clock back I don't think I would make the same move again and i would stay in The Hague
🇳🇱
Liedje : ' Het Dorp '
van Wim Sonneveld.
Speciaal voor jullie. :)
@rubenverheij4770 De mooiste❤
We say: 'there is no bad weather, only bad clothing'. When I was a kid I got so dirty by playing outside, that my mother picked me up at the frontdoor and put me fully dressed in the shower to get off most of the dirt first 😂. My mom always said: on the backside you can see the kids were clean before they went outside.
That's true--especially with cold weather. It sounds like you had a great childhood!
You're right. But as a former boys scout I must tell you that you are walking on the the wrong side of the road / bike lane. You must face the traffic on the left so you can see what's coming. On the right lane everything happens behind you.
Thank you for telling me this! I'll be sure to be more mindful of this in the future (ignore it in my next few videos though--I filmed those before reading your comment).
@@JordanGreenYT its not a big deal, but its true. As a pedestrian walking on a road or bikepath you walk against the traffic. As a runner myself I notice that about 50% actually do this. So its no biggie
Yep it is safety 1st, VVN (safe traveling NL-road safety board) teaches this to us from a young age. If things run up to youon your back you cant see then coming, so your better of walking into traffic then you can see them and wont be blindsided when there are no walkways.
This is wrong, you are free to walk on either side. In fact, when the bike lane (I mean only bikes/pedestrians allowed, not mixed road) is busy, it is better to walk in the same directions as the bike go. For bikes, it is far easier to stay behind a pedestrian going the same way when there is no room to pass. Especially runners should do that, considering they move faster. I do live near a bike lane that is both busy with bikes and pedestrians, and the ones going the other way do create issues.
And the idea that when walking against the stream means that pedestrians see the bikes coming and could go out of the way is good in theory, but in reality rarely happens.
Edit: Before you comment that I am wrong, please first look it up. The VVN site clearly says you can choose as a pedestrian. Depending on the situation, it can change what is best. If you want to look up the law: search RVV article 4. (It says nothing about a side to walk on).
I understand the impulse to correct me, I was taught the same (always walk left), but that is simply no longer the case.
@@MarijnvdSterre When it is busy, you should run or walk on the pedestrian way, not on a bike lane. For your own safety.
I don't think America is ever going to reach Europes level of infrastructure honestly
L.A is richer than all of Europe combined. Calm down. Levels.
@@smokerx6291 first of all, that's not true. And secondly, that has nothing to do whatsoever to what he said.
Netherlands has higher gpd than LA fyi
@@smokerx6291ain’t that the city with the homeless crisis?
@@smokerx6291 Epic self burn. Imagine living in a richer place.. yet unable to provide happiness, impressive infrastructure nor a functioning society in many ways.. sad (btw look up the freedom index, democracy index, healthcare, Human Development oh and.. the Global Safety Index, where the US is ranked at place 132 out of a total of 164 countries.. just 1 spot above Iran!)
Oh and gun deaths is the main cause of deaths for kids, gg guys!
@@smokerx6291 way to stereotype yourself. US might be rich, but what do they do with those riches? it all goes to people who never really use it for anything useful.
The Netherlands really knows how to do urban design correctly, so its cities are walkable and bikable and inviting.
And the most important: that's freedom
- Just a small correction: bike lanes are usually _not_ meant to be walked on, this is only the case in some rural areas or very specific locations & its usually marked with signs if so (sign of pedestrian and cyclist next to each other)
- When walking on a road or bike lane you should always try and walk against traffic, because that way you see the vehicles for the lane you are walking in coming towards you, meaning _you_ can get off the road if they don't notice you, if you follow the direction of traffic you can't see what is coming up behind you and attempting to use the same space as you (one of the things we learn as Dutch kids hehe)
- The thing about wednesday afternoons is just a tradition, the source isn't entirely clear. It's mostly so the kids get a little break from learning, but it also helps the teachers (gives them time to grade or prepare stuff etc in work hours) & it gives parents opportunity to do more with their kids when they are young.
Article 4 RVV1990 (Dutch trafic regulation)
1. Pedestrians use the sidewalk or the footpath.
2. They use the cycle path or the cycle/moped path if there is no sidewalk or footpath.
3. They use the verge or the outermost side of the carriageway if there is also no cycle path or cycle/moped path.
4. Notwithstanding the first and second paragraphs, persons who move around with the aid of objects other than vehicles use the cycle path, the cycle/moped path, the sidewalk or the footpath. They use the carriageway if there is no cycle path, a cycle/moped path, a sidewalk or a footpath.
As a Dutch person, I played outside so often. At some point, my little brother and I just went on adventures by ourselves in the park, the playground nearby or the neighborhood. When I was 11, I went to the playground at my school to play, which was a little further.
I do have to mention, though, that I do see a difference these last couple of years. I teach 4-6 year-olds, and a lot of children don't play outside when school's out. It might have to do with that they're living in a big city.
WOW.... kids got shot for ding dong ditching??? That is insane... I used to stand in front of the door after ringing the bell to make it more exciting than to run away.
Another FYI, I do see a growing focus on school results. As teachers, we often try to help the parents focus on the process rather than the results as we never stop learning.
Also, it depends per school whether children are out earlier on Wednesday. Our school has the same hours every day. Schools are allowed to fill in the hours themselves as long as they teach the required hours to the kids. This set up also creates off days for the kids so there's study time for teachers.
We're lucky to have you here, young, enthusiastic, you're a great addition to our little country. I hope you have a happy life here.
Your channel is growing bro keep up the good content 👊
I like the way you're so earnestly researching the Dutch way of things. And btw... Me and my man were 24 when our first child arrived! 😊 Our reason? When you get them early, you will have (hopefully) lots of time left to enjoy life as empty nesters! And guess what? It worked out beautifully. I wish you a happy life with us in the Netherlands
It only rains 8% of the time and it hardly ever freezes. Even in your video it's nice sunny weather when it's end of november. As a kid i never cared about the weather too much. Just hopped on the bike and went anywhere without parental supervision.
Dutch weather sucks.
you will learn to just ignore the weather and just do what you was planning to do either way.
weather should not be an excuse in a country where it rains so much. just adept and live your life.
we pay a lot of taxes, but at least a part of that is used for infrastructure and keeping everything clean and maintained.
and we can see results. (still no one likes tax of course, but at least we see some of it being used for a good cause)
Jordan. I Would love to see you start streaming regularly again. Your live streams got me through some really rough times and I still re-listen to them from time to time. Congratulations on your new life in Europe!!!
Look at (about) minute 6:40 in the backround. That little kid crossing the road. That really shows how Dutch biking starts. ps Some advise to the 'foreigners': If you really have to walk on the bikelane, please do so on the other side of the road. Where you can see the bikes coming towards you. Just a little tip here.
lol, the "Dutch weather is nothing to write home about".. :) We still have the 4 seasons here in the Netherlands. If you can chill in the sun with your shorts on or go to the beach in "winter".. it's not really winter.. lmao.. But yeah, even we Dutch complain about the weather.. and we grow up with it haha.
I just saw an ABC video where a mom was arrested because her 11 year old walked into town to the Dollar Store a few minutes down the road. Completely baffling to a Dutch parent.
A looooong time ago I was an au pair in the States. I was completely baffled that "my" kids weren't allowed to walk to school by themselves, despite their school being at walking distance and no busy streets. We were walking to school alone at age 5 in 1980's Netherlands. I must say that the parents of my kids were totally cool with giving their kids more freedom, however, the school explicitly forbade it.
I remember seeing a video of a father who almost got arrested cos he let his kids go to school by themselves using public transport. Can’t remember if it was the US or Canada.
Also completely baffling to us.
Maybe it isn't allowed
because of creepy men?
Totally agree. My wife is European and we plan on raising our kids mostly in Europe
The hierarchy here in the Netherlands is less prevalent than in the US for example, that also shows in how kids interact with their teachers.
It teaches us at a young age that everyone's ideas matter, everyone's perspective matters, regardless of your position or age, this in turn creates more confident and well rounded adults.
I appreciate your pov Jordan, I hope you and your gf will be content wherever you decide to settle down. 😊🌷
Jordan Alexander Green out here dropping some more game, walking the bike lane. You love to see it.
Great video again as always. Hope you guys are well.
Much love bro 💙
how do you know his middle name... are you government lol?
@@ayub4929 lol nah bro... just a consistent viewer of his videos 🤷♂
Yep, Dutchmen don't walk, they bike. Much more efficient. 😅
I appreciate the love bro!
@@JordanGreenYT 💙
As a kid, about 11-12 years old, we were doing these so called droppings. A group of kids was dropped somewhere in the forrest, in the dark and then had to find back the way to the camp/club/base. No phones, no GPS. I thought it was great.
Some time ago, I tried to explain this to some American collegues, but they didn't understand 😂
I mean, dropping your child off in the forest at night with no phone or GPS is peak irresponsible 😂😂😂 BUT it sounds kinda fun with a group of friends🤷🏾♀️ You survived
Droppings are great. But forests in the Netherlands are not quite the same as in the usa. No dangerous animals (may since 5 years wolves), a house or road within a couple of kilometers
Those were awesome times!
I think leaving America would hurt me more. However, if you dont have nothing to lose in your life even your careers in America, then go for it. I might travel to the Netherlands as a tourist.
thnx 4 not coming permanently we have a housing crisis already
Definitely worth visiting, if nothing else!
@@daboydudus3912 only in the big cities lol. You can easy find a house in the north
@@mirrrie True, but there is a reason why.
Lived aĺl my life happily up north far away from smart-asses like @boozelala
Hi Jordan, it seems you really like the Netherlands. Good for you. And your kids. America is such a great country but life is definitely better here I guess.
Loving your clear cut, somewhat dry analysis of our country, because we are not very braggadocios people and don't like tooting our own horn (in general) it does feel nice to be presented the fun and good stuff we often forget about because we love to complain! Groeten uit Brabant!
After visiting a few countries over the last few years, I've definitely been bitten by the international travel bug. I would love to take the leap and move abroad (if even for a short time), but I think that ship has sailed at 35. However, I appreciate these types of videos and your insights, Jordan. Thanks!
I’m 48, I moved to Netherlands 🇳🇱 at age 47. You’re not too old
I left my country at 42 so it's never too late!
"35, Damn, that's the best age to change your life for the better."
What is also nice about playing outside is that the children may become friends for life. In my case I kept in touch with a few of them, but last year after 40 years we met each other again in our home village. Since then we keep in touch via a WhatsApp group.
As i understand children under the age of 12 get a lot of homework in the US. Overhere that is not the case. The schoolingsystem is set up to make sure the kid likes school and that will stimulate the childs development. You can correct me if i understood the US schoolingsystem wrong
Interesting video bro. Great points
Good observation about the different school levels. It also means that you only have to meet the treshold to go over to the next year. You don't have to perform to the max, you don't have to show you are smarter than your classmates. It's about learning rather than being performance measured to be top of the class.
Cylings lessons were introduced when I was in primary school, which I cycled to when there still were far less bike lanes and we had to avoid the route with dangerous crossings. A lot is just culture, infrastructure followed, the cycling turning point started with children have to be able to play in the streets safely in the big cities. Dutch parents kick their children out, go play outside I don't want you here, get some fresh air, make friends, be active. And learn, play stands in high regard because it's fun but also a way of learning. Children learn a lot more from their peers than from adults when they are older. The break even point is around 12 or something.
Yes, i think you are spot on about the Dutch schooling system. And man, those (nation wide) shorter wednesday schooldays really were a blessing to me. Pitty it only was/is in primary school and not in secondary school.
Great video, thank you! 🙏🏼
I have fond memories of playing outside with my friends as a kid, too- and also of the freedom my bike gave me, especially as a teenager (and still!). Now I have a 17 year old son and I am SO glad I don't have to drive him around. He too, I bet 😉
And: almost all drivers here ride bikes as well, so that makes them extra aware of bike traffic
I bet you're both glad about not needing to pay for an extra car as well! I appreciate the support 👍🏾
@@JordanGreenYT absolutely! Especially since we live close to Amsterdam Central station. Parking would be the ultimate nightmare 😂
We were kids, second class elementary school. One day we found a car, it was an Opel. We found it, and we did not have a clue how to get it home. It was unlocked and therefore we could play in it. We tried to get the buttons lose. Suddenly another car stopped and two men rushed out towards 'our' car. Me and my friend we both ran away, both in an other direction, the men did not get us. The next day the father of my friend told us that we should not have fled to my friends house, there was a complain about us. But we honestly found the car in the streets. We had a very happy childhood.
We do have a lot of parcs. We need them too, because we're a very dense populated country. Lots of waterways too. Probably the most waterways in the world.
I have another reason why more kids are outside. At least this goes for me when I was young, and a lot of friends of mine (not all friends but a lot of them).
My parents would get mad if i where inside during the day. After school was not really a problem, although I still was outside a lot. But off days like the weekends, I would get kicked out. Go play outside, is the phrase that came up a lot. If I would say, I don't know what to do, they would simply reply with; Think of something, go, get!
And there I was together with other kids outside, fishing, climbing trees, playing warr with fake pistols, catching bugs and frogs. All the good stuff. Parents need to step up and just shoo there kids outside.
I don't mean lock them outside, but push them outand then when they show up after half an hour because they are bored or no other kids are outside, sure let them play with legos or what not. But please enforce some parental power and force the kids to go and play with friends etc. It was really normal where I lived.
Result was that every day every minute I had, I went to a friends house to play soccer or whatever. And when he had other friends over you get to know other people (I moved a few times this is how i learned to meet new people). For real, don't underestemate kids social lifes! It is a foundation of the grown man or woman they become.
::::::::::
4:16 If you walk on the
other side of the road, if
you would walk against
the traffic, you would see
the traffic coming, and you
would not get hit by traffic
in your back. It''s lot safer.
Did you know you are walking on the wrong side of the bike lane all the time? You should walk on the wrong side so you can see oncoming traffic - and you are a guest on the "mandatory" bike-lane. If needed you are the one that should step aside off the bike lane in the rare case it is needed ;-)
Perfect analyse 👍👍Btw this setup for children is in most North European countries.
Yes we do go outside , I always go to the park with my child , take walks when I can with her. If you live in the city I'm from Rotterdam you can also find something to do with kids , nature.
Yeah, schoolfree wednesday-afternoons are a nationwide thing. They are usually filled with a club, sport or friends. There used to be cartoons as well. Not sure if that's still a thing.
Also: Bikepath rule #8: always walk on the opposite side (into the biketraffic) so you can see the traffic coming. Cheers.
I appreciate the bike lane advice. I always wondered why people do that! And I appreciate the insight. I'm definitely jealous of Dutch kids now 🤦🏾♂
@@JordanGreenYTMy kid has "continu rooster", continuous roster. Out at 2 pm every day. So not all schools have the short wednesday.
Trust your instincts and do what is best for you!!!
Of course! Thanks for watching 🥂
@@JordanGreenYTYou're welcome!!!
Meneer je loopt op het fietspad wij hebben een stoep waar je op moet lopen Meneer.en ja we klagen over het weer maar ik zou nergens anders willen wonen we zijn vrij.💯👍
I ding dong ditched a guy that i didnt like with my friend in 2012!! It felt good!!
About the school, there are many times i wish i could of gotten out early so i agree with you on that! I also hate school! I would never go back.
I feel you 🤣 My friends and I were little menaces when it came to ding dong ditching. And early release days were the absolute best!
Morals, values, intact households and a place to play and meet other kids
Bro who is your barber in the Netherlands bro? Straight fire 🔥🔥🔥
I used to ding dong ditched alone sometimes😂 I would pick a door close to the street/curb, wait for a random pedestrian heading in my direction, estimate how much time it would take for that stranger to pass by the door I picked, then ring the bell and ditch, quickly hide somewhere I could still see the door, and then watch 2 people being very confused and awkward 😂
The whole biking thing and the construction of all the cycling infrastructure really began in the 70's as a way to make streets safer, especially for children. So as a result right now, children can go as they please and really dont need adult supervision. This is obviously great for the children, but also for the parents because it obviously saves a lot of time and they dont need to helicopter parent as much. What most parents do is just track the phone of their kids so they can quickly see if they went to school, or sportspractice or the park or whatever what was agreed upon.
That makes a lot of sense! I wonder how parents kept track of their children before cell phones became mainstream? 🤔
@@JordanGreenYT Hah, I was one of those kids, im from 1980. As children, we really looked after each other. It was more about the social connections back then. We all knew each other parents and they had contact between them about what was agreed. So, lets say I leave for school at 8 in the morning, and it was agreed I would pick up my friend Jimmy at 08:10. If I wouldnt be there, Jimmy's mom would call my mom of course so even at a young age I knew I couldnt just bail without getting in trouble. And of course the school would call the parents if we werent there at 08:30...
And so on and so forth. But I do feel like that really taught me to have some sort of responsability from a young age onward. I could totally bail yeah... but did I think I would get away with that? Do I want to deal with the consequences like getting grounded if I didnt? You know... life skill man!
@@JordanGreenYTthey just told us be home at a certain time. Or call (land line) when you’re at a friends house and you’re staying over longer than planned.
I got a nintendo (8bit with Duck Hunt!!) but I had to play outside before I could nintendo which I played with her. And like I said in an answer before, all sports had summer camps and the scouts ofc. In the summer I usually went 3 weeks on summer camps.
Have you seen any videos from Nomad Capitalist? American who also left and also became a former American. Good advice from the fella.
In certain circles in the UK and USA the countryside is seen as the ideal place to bring up children, so your idea that high density housing promotes children's health and happiness is interesting. I hadn't thought of it before, but it makes sense when you think how easy it is to walk or cycle to see your friends in NL, which wouldn't be possible in rural UK or USA.
This exactly why i did not want to live outside a city or village. You have to bring your child everywhere. To friends, to sport, to school. Much easier if everything and everyone lifes max 10 minutes biking. So your child can go on their own.
The US is known for its multicultural society, which can present various challenges regarding safety and social integration. For instance, in Sweden, there is a noticeable concern among native residents about allowing children or women to walk alone in areas with significant immigrant populations from Africa and Mid-Eastern regions. This concern stems from perceived differences in cultural attitudes towards women and children.
When a country has a homogenous culture, its citizens often share similar values, traditions, and customs. However, with the arrival of large numbers of immigrants from diverse cultures, there can be tension as both groups navigate their differences and customs. Incompatible cultures don't integrate, and locals must change their way because the most aggressive culture always dominates.
Well, that's a problem. The assumption that Africans or people from Middle Eastern backgrounds don't have the same values and therefore should be looked at as a potential threat.
Most people just want to raise their families, keep their head down, and pay their bills.
@@thejasminediaz This is not based on assumptions but rather on personal experiences and observations. Naturally, it depends on the individual, and there are many families who seek a better life by moving from the Middle East or Africa to Northern Europe. However, the majority of violent crimes currently are committed by immigrants from these regions.
The police in Sweden have reported that they are not adequately trained or equipped to handle this kind of violence. In August this year, Denmark announced it was tightening its border controls with Sweden to combat the threat posed by immigrant gangs. Additionally, educational standards in schools are being lowered to ensure that immigrant children have a better chance of passing their classes. These observations are based on actual events and statements, not assumptions.
Don't forget that here in the Netherlands, one of the richest countries in the world, there are also many children who go to school without having breakfast due to poverty. Not everyone lives in the kind of neighbourhood you walk through in this video.
We are a rapidly growing nation, and we would benefit from having people like you and your future family here. I would definitely like to see more liberal Americans move to the Netherlands or even to Europe. It would make us stronger. I wish you and your "girl" all the best in life.
The Netherlands is as small as the state of Maryland, but our population's 3 times that of Maryland. Imagine.
I started out doing VWO Atheneum in highschool. But I never really had any academic goals or dreams. I went to HAVO in third grade by my own choice. Then I ended up doing MBO, because I enjoyed working with my hands more than academics. Never regretted my choices. I think I would be miserable if I was forced to be a bookworm.
So you are not working….you do what you like….good for you! 👍🏻
I was allowed 8 to go to school by myself in the Netherlands
There are parts of the US where that would be unthinkable! It's great that children here have so much freedom.
Me too!
I was allowed at 7 in the UK. Didn't think it was a big deal.
@@JordanGreenYTEven a crime, CPS will intervene and take your child away.
I walked to kindergarten on my own from the age of 4. Sometimes I also walked to the primary school when my brother had forgotten something at home.
Jordan, when did you record this? You have a T-shirt and it's pretty cold rn in the Netherlands
I'm from Morocco and Dingdong ditching was one of my best childhood memories 😂😂😂
I am in a wheelchair and my friends always left me in front of the door 😂
Whether it's the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland,.one of the Baltics, Sweden, Norway, Denmark or Finland doesn't make much of a difference.
All of them are fine, plus maybe more, which I don't know as well.
Children tend to have more fun in the forest than in parks. Therefore, Germany and the Baltics may be the best.
Bike lanes in the Netherlands are unsurpassed, though.
Must say compared to 10 month ago you look much healthier.
You recently had a case where a US mother was arrested in the US because her teenager was walking alone on the sidewalk.
The Netherlands is trying to encourage other EU countries to follow their example on infrastructure planning and cycling so all of Europe has proper infra standards compared to the Netherlands.
How is your Dutch by the way?.
To say that 'research has shown that Dutch children are amongst the happiest children in the world' is an understatement. Research, every year again and again like clockwork, has shown that Dutch children are THE happiest children in the world. As in: ranked No. 1. For many years now....
They don't have that kind of test on schools in the US? I thought that was a common thing across the world.
I listen to Truthunedited all the time. Are you the voice behind Truthunedited? Please respond, honestly. Thank you in advance .
The other week I saw a video of a US mother being arrested and handuffed. Reason? Her ten year old son was walking by himself on the street!!!
That's weird. Didn't he carry his bulletproof backpack?
In Europe, children walk to kindergarten and primary school on their own. The children of my niece do that now and I used to do this when I was a child.
I played outside allways building cabins soccer hiding go seek skating etc kids in the USA are misty inside
Greetings am American Dutchie
I recently saw something about a woman getting sued because she allowed her kid walk a small distance.
That just blew my mind, but not in a right way.
Yep, an ABC news video, she was arrested because her kid left the house to walk over to the Dollar Store down the road. Wtf.
Children also get taught traffic rules at the age of 10-12 and they get examed on the bike
Dutch children play outside unattended and more independent. No helicopter parents, at least not much.
The moment they learn to ride a bicycle (4-6 yo) their independence starts growing. They learn the traffic rules while cycling and walking with their parents and at school. Children independently ride a bicycle, take public transport or walk to school, friends etc.
Children have a (little) saying in certain decisions like Holliday destinations, sports they play.
And probably the most important is they can get chocolate sprinkles on bread😅
A weakness of the Dutch education system is what we call the 'sixes-culture', as in getting 6 out of 10 grades. If you discuss it with your gf she will know what it means. It's about not getting pushed beyond good enough to pass exams.
As a Dutch person let me tell you the best place to raise your kids is Dubai. Safe and clean and for boys the competitive environment will be amazing
It depends, my neighbors moved to Dubai and then came back after 6 months because their kids struggled to find friends to play with and were depressed (at 8/10 years old) because they felt isolated and out of place, they missed playing football and hanging out with the neighbors kids here (switzerland) and they didn't even grow up here, they grew up in Florida and despite not speaking any german back then they instantly found a ton of friends (girls and boys) when they moved here. So the "best place to raise your kids" can differ for different parents and kids.
Pretty funny to see my own house in your video. Do you live here?
I agree with the safety-parts. I disagree with all other parts.
I grew up in The Netherlands in the 2000s and 2010s and my experience isn’t as bright as you portray it.
The road-construction is a spider-web. You never know what you’re getting yourself into, until it’s right in front of you and that is scary. Sometimes there are bicycle-roads and sometimes you have to drive on the car-roads, it’s always a hit-or-miss and driving on the car-roads as a cyclist is dangerous.
Even though the education system is great, it wasn’t always like that. When I had my primary school test to see what high school I had to go to, they schooled me in VMBO, and I wish they chose lower class, because it was a struggle to get to the next year with unreasonably low grades and eventually a failure. I didn’t have the opportunity to go to college because the expectation were too high. I’m doing low-end jobs like cleaning, not because I enjoy it, but because our system doesn’t provide us better opportunities.
About the social aspect: in the early years of primary school, children visit other children’s homes and play together. When entering high school, it’s either playing online video games together or not talking until the next day. We don’t often text each other, the way it is portrayed in the movies. Only to ask questions about homework or tests.
As a Dutchie You know what my way of Ding Dong ditching was when i was a kid? I bought a universal remote control for televisions. And every evening i checked what houses the tv was on then i zapped the channel and run away. I remember doing this to 1 household a lot. And a week later there television was at the street to be picked up by the garbage guy. I told my parents. They made me contact that family to tell them what i did. Fortunate there television was not picked up yet. And it did not rain. So the television was working fine. My mother told me if there tv was broke because of the rain i had to buy a new tv for them out of my own savings. Well after that i was done playing the ding dong ditch on my way 😂😂
😂 my mum would have been like yours. But she would have laughed in silence
Nah you're devious for that 💀
We call it knock and run and I was never a mischievous kid... I remember one Sunday afternoon throwing/kicking a soccer ball at a metal box attached to this house in my neighbourhood (I think it was an electrics box) like once or twice... never again. I felt so bad when the homeowner came out and told me about how it had impacted them with the noise and what not.
America is a very dark place. It has no hope. I don't see no light nor hope nowhere in America.
Wel trump won so there's hope!
Lol, there is less hope because of TrumptyDumpsterfire. I hope you love being broke because the poor will be more so.
Why do you walk on the bike lane?
Here's an idea for the kids of today in other countries, to enhance their 'ding dong ditching'.
When there is enough snow outside to make a nice big heavy ball of snow..
Take a stone, that is higher then the door opening of a house, put a piece of wood on the door opening and the stone and place the ball of snow on the wood.
Now, that ball is leaning against the door, until it is opened ..........
It brings all kinds of nastiness to your victims, but in the end, it is just water, so stuff gets wet, but not actually destroyed.
Have at it, treat your neighbors !
i like your comments. one minor comment, since you are on a path for ‘faster’ traffic ie bikes you should be walking on the ‘wrong side’ of the road. there is a logic to it, makes sence but i am not going to bother you ;) keep it up
Don't forget car drivers here are also cyclists! And vice versa...so they know each other's rules in traffic.
True! Plus, my girlfriend said that children here are subject to bike lessons in school, so I'm sure that helps a lot.
Also we have cyclist exams on the bikes when we are kids
Dutch children are more ouyside than anywhere else? 30 years ago you could hear kids playing outside everywhere, but nowadays I seldom hear or see kids outside. When I was young I used to be amnd play outside ALL the time. Only rain could be a spoiler, other than that we lived outside. I guess nowadays social media and pc games are the norm.
You think things through a lot deeper than most of the people I know do. Maybe it's because you're compairing life here with life in the USA. I noticed that you - like many Americans that make these videos - are made scared of a lot of things by living in the USA. Scared you'll get hit by a car, or a bike; scared to get truancy punishments and many other things.
IF you'll get punishments here, they'll probably be more like staying at school for an extra hour, or something like that.
A few weeks ago I was pulled from the bike lane by an American, because I walked there. "You can get run over" was what he said. 😀. Here people don't run over other people just because they walk where they're not supposed to walk. They just steer around them. Just like people in cars. They tend to be more aggressive vocally, but mostly just when they're IN their car. Of course there are some that do crazy stuff, but there are those in every country. That's not the norm.
Why do Americans romanticize Europe so much? People are individuals. I see plenty of children playing outside. I hope you're are happy in the Netherlands. If you don't like the US, I hope you know that you don't have to come back. I don't mean that in a rude way. You seem like a nice guy, but I get tired of seeing Americans more abroad, but can only find negative things to say about the US.
Stay where you are happy. If you life sucked in the US, blame yourself, not the whole country. I have driven across the US many times and every place is different. Parks don't make people happy. Believe me, bro. Are they happy when they're walking around in blackface? I'm just saying. They have some issues as well. The Netherlands is no paradise, my friend.
Enjoy the Netherlands.
its Jordanië Groente from now
There are so many variables you are not touching on concerning the freedom of children in the two countries. Such as: ( In America) the volume of human trafficking, crime (gangs having young kids commit crimes because they won’t get harsh jail time), drugs, school shootings, the level of trust of the judicial system, and racial profiling.
Also, the only time children in America can go into a store for free treats is on Halloween.
You’re walking on the cyclinglane!
There is a law in the Netherlands that you as a car driver in the dark, must asume there are people on bikes without Lights. In an accident, the car driver will in many cases the person who is the cause of the accident, law rules
In Germany, police may stop and fine you if you ride a bike without lights in the dark. Wearing a reflective vest is encouraged as well.
True
people grow up riding bicycles and watch therefor out for other people almost automaticly.
Aside from the fact that we have a bicycle first rule in the way that if you hit a person riding a bicycle you are the responsible party so you need to pay not the cyclist.
Just wanted to ask (deep I know) but what does success/purpose look like to you in your life right now?
What is it that gets you out of bed each day? What do you want your lasting legacy to be?
I know 'Built Different' era Jordan wanted to flex on those who rejected him, and wanted the fame and fortune, but I'm pretty certain that's not the case nowadays.
Are you still focusing on being a writer, do you have plans on uploading more frequently on TH-cam etc?
I don't mean to get all up in your business. Was just curious because I've been having this dilemma about what success looks like in life, and am just curious on what it looks like to you.
Stay blessed bro 💙🥂
I appreciate you for asking bro!
Right now, I'm much more focused on freedom than flexing.
I'm still putting all the pieces together (writing, TH-cam, etc.), but the image is starting to become clearer.
@@JordanGreenYT You love to see it! Wishing you all the best bro!
Lol, I know my English is pretty decent, but I had to look up 'ding dong ditching' 😂
Belletje lellen dus 🇳🇱 😂
Wasn't that obvious from context? 😅
Hoe klinkt de bel? Ding dong.
hahaha, nu wel 🙃 @@HolgerJakobs
I dont have stats for it but i think Dutch children are also happier because i feel like abusive households are uncommon here. This is anecdotal, but i personally dont know anyone who has a bad relationship with their parents or had a shitty home situation in their childhood. Not to say that it doesn’t happen here, but perhaps less so than in (most) other countries
Lol the US is best optimized for Productivity and Business
‘America’ u mean the USA?
please not more people from the outside its too crowded already
...and the people in the Netherlands still keep complaining their kids don't play outside anymore, haha!
Most funerial ice-cream van I ever heard
Do you feel like kids in the Netherlands are less likely to be on their phones as a result of being outside more?
I do feel like younger children here are less inclined to be on their phones---especially when with their friends. Teenagers are probably pretty similar though.
As a Dutch mom of teenage girls: I notice that that TikTok and instagram plays a huge role in their life. They keep in contact with their peers online but also still go for shopping with their friends. Sometimes you see teenagers hanging outside but that is mostly not concidered positive at all .
Dear Jordan, you forgot to mention about the number of school shootings in the US, which is staggering. There were 83 school shootings this year and still counting.
You also forgot to mention that firearms killed more children and teens, ages 1 to 17, than any other cause, including car crashes. Averaging to nearly 7 deadly victims a day. With a disproportionatel affect to colored people.
We don't have a such a thing as your damned 2nd amendment. That is one of the reasons our children can live safe and happily in the Netherlands (and Europe) compared to the US.