Less School, More Learning | Alexander Szadkowski | TEDxJvL Youth

The current education system, with its long school days, is contributing to student demotivation, stress, and even depression. Children spend hours sitting in classrooms, often retaining little of what they learn, leading to disengagement. This also impacts teachers, who become stressed and less effective due to the demanding schedule. A significant concern is the declining mental health among youth, with studies showing a high percentage of students in the Netherlands experiencing mental health issues. In contrast, countries with shorter school days, like Italy, Finland, and Denmark, demonstrate better outcomes. Italy, with its approximately 5-hour school days, has a much lower rate of mental health problems among children compared to the Netherlands. Similarly, Finland and Denmark prioritize student well-being, creativity, and physical activity alongside academics, resulting in higher academic achievement, lower stress levels, and increased engagement. Shorter school days allow students more time for personal development, including exploring interests, developing social skills, and engaging in physical activity. This balance between structured learning and personal growth enables students to return to school more focused and motivated, ultimately leading to improved academic performance and better mental and physical well-being. The examples suggest that reducing school hours can simultaneously enhance mental health and academic success.