Instead of changing into their day clothes, tens of thousands of children in Belgium kept their pyjamas on to go to school on Friday morning. Why is this, and why is it happening today?
One day every year, thousands of pupils in Dutch-speaking schools are allowed to keep on their pyjamas or other sleepwear in class. This fun activity, named Bednet Pyjamaday, is part of an annual campaign organised by Bednet.
The organisation helps facilitate online distance learning for sick pupils who are unable to attend school for long periods or regularly. Children only need a laptop and an internet connection. Last year, 2,032 pupils used it to follow lessons, an increase of 38% compared to 2023.
Every year on 14 March, Bednet organises its pyjama day to support all students who are unable to attend school. "Bednet Pyjama Day is not just another fancy dress party," the organisation said.
"We are putting on our pyjamas, onesie, tracksuit or other form of sleepwear to show sick pupils that they are not alone and that we will continue to support them. By participating in the campaign, you support sick pupils throughout Flanders and Brussels."
The organisation also offers schools free learning materials to encourage pupils to think about the theme of "illness."
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This year marks the tenth edition of this unique concept. On this anniversary edition, Bednet aims to break the record for support. "We will do this by having as many people as possible walk around in their pyjamas for a whole day."
Ahead of the day, the organisation said its appeal seemed to be succeeding, as more than 130,000 people already signed up for the campaign. By Friday morning, 220,500 people had already signed up to take part.
"It is not an officially measurable record, but we want to send an unprecedented message of support to all sick pupils," said Mathieu Tallon, director of Bednet.
