Childcare in Netherlands: Costs, Options and Support for Expats

Finding quality Childcare in Netherlands can feel overwhelming, especially for expat families navigating the Dutch kinderopvang system for the first time. Whether you’re searching for daycare in Amsterdam, preschool options in The Hague, or after-school care in Rotterdam, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Dutch childcare costs, government subsidies, and the best childcare options for working families. Mild to moderate psychological concerns such as stress, anxiety, or relationship problems can often be managed through online mental health platforms, also known as e-health. These services are usually accessible anonymously and may not require a referral.

Understanding Childcare in netherlands System (Kinderopvang)

Childcare in the Netherlands operates under a comprehensive regulatory framework that ensures consistent quality standards across all providers. The Dutch approach views childcare as a shared responsibility between parents, employers, and the government, reflecting the country’s commitment to supporting working families.

Key Features of Dutch Childcare

All Netherlands childcare providers must be accredited and registered with local municipalities, ensuring families have access to regulated, high-quality care. The system includes:

• Mandatory health and safety policies at all registered facilities
• Professional certification requirements for all childcare staff
• Regular government quality inspections by the Municipal Health Service (GGD)
• Income-based subsidies through the kinderopvangtoeslag system
• Comprehensive insurance coverage for all registered providers

The Dutch Inspectorate of Education conducts regular assessments to maintain these standards, while the Government of the Netherlands provides detailed regulations and guidance for both providers and parents.

Types of Childcare in the Netherlands

Daycare Centres (Kinderdagverblijf)

Daycare centres represent the most common form of childcare in the Netherlands for children aged 0-4 years. These facilities typically operate during standard working hours (07:30-18:00 or 08:00-18:30), offering both half-day and full-day options to accommodate different work schedules.

Average costs for daycare Netherlands:

• Three days per week: €750 per month
• Full-time care: €1,200-1,500 per month
• Part-time options: €400-600 per month

Major Dutch daycare providers include:

• Partou: Offering bilingual programmes across multiple cities
• Hestia: Specializing in international childcare options
• Smallsteps: Focusing on English-speaking environments
• Kinderopvang De Speelvogel: Traditional Dutch approach with multilingual staff

Important planning tip: Waiting lists for popular daycare centres can extend 6-12 months, particularly in major cities like Amsterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht. Early registration is essential for securing your preferred childcare option.

Preschools (Peuterspeelzaal)

Peuterspeelzaal provides part-time early learning experiences for children aged 2-4 years, typically offering twice-weekly sessions lasting 2-3 hours each. These programmes focus on social development, Dutch language exposure, and school readiness.

Preschool costs Netherlands:

• Average cost: €25 for two half-days per week
• Income-based pricing: Many facilities offer sliding scale fees
• Municipal subsidies: Available for families not eligible for kinderopvangtoeslag

For expat children, preschools offer invaluable first exposure to Dutch language and culture, helping prepare them for primary school integration. Working parents can claim childcare allowance Netherlands for registered preschool care, while non-working families may qualify for municipal subsidies.

After-School Care (Buitenschoolse Opvang – BSO)

After-school care Netherlands serves primary school children aged 4-13, with three distinct types:

• VSO (Voor School Opvang): Before-school care starting from 07:00
• TSO (Tussen School Opvang): Lunchtime care during school breaks
• BSO (Buitenschoolse Opvang): After-school care until 18:30

BSO costs typically range:

• Hourly rates: €6-10 per hour
• Monthly packages: €650 per child for regular attendance
• Holiday care: Additional €30-40 per day during school breaks

Primary schools must offer after-school care options, often partnering with established daycare centres to provide comprehensive coverage. Many BSO providers also offer holiday camps and care during school study days, ensuring consistent support for working parents year-round.

Childminders (Gastouders)

Childminders Netherlands provide small-group care (maximum six children) in domestic settings, either at their home or yours. This option offers personalized attention in a home-like environment, making it ideal for families seeking more intimate care arrangements.

Gastouder costs:

• Average hourly rate: €6 per hour per child
• Full-day care: €48-60 per day
• Flexible scheduling: Often available for non-standard hours

All childminders must be registered through government-approved agencies that ensure safety standards and provide mediation services. You can search for registered childminders at Gastouderbureau, which maintains a comprehensive database of certified providers.

Professional Nannies

For families seeking exclusive, flexible care, professional nannies provide personalized services representing a premium childcare option. Rates vary significantly based on experience, qualifications, and additional services offered.

Nanny costs Netherlands:

• Standard rates: €10-20 per hour
• Live-in arrangements: €1,200-1,800 per month plus room and board
• Shared nanny services: €8-12 per hour when split between families

Families employing nannies are responsible for salary payments, social security contributions, and tax obligations. Some nannies offer specialized services like tutoring, language instruction, or care for children with special needs.

Au Pairs

The au pair system Netherlands allows foreign nationals aged 18-31 to live with host families, providing light domestic duties and childcare for up to 30 hours weekly. This cultural exchange programme offers affordable childcare while providing language and cultural learning opportunities.

Au pair arrangements include:

• Monthly allowance: €300-340
• Room and board: Provided by host family
• Maximum hours: 30 hours per week
• Cultural activities: Language classes and integration support

Non-EU/Swiss au pairs require residence permits obtained through recognized agencies. For detailed requirements, visit IND Au Pair Conditions.

Financial Support and Subsidies

The Netherlands offers comprehensive financial support for childcare, making it more affordable for working families despite higher gross costs compared to EU averages.

Childcare Benefit (Kinderopvangtoeslag)

Kinderopvangtoeslag is the primary income-based subsidy from the Dutch tax authorities, helping cover registered childcare costs. This benefit can cover up to 96% of childcare expenses for lower-income families.

Eligibility criteria include:

• Both parents (or single parent) must be employed or studying
• Childcare facility must be registered with the National Childcare Register
• Child must live with you
• You must contribute to childcare costs
• Must be EU national or have valid residency/work permits

Benefit amounts based on:

• Combined family income
• Number of hours worked by lowest-earning parent
• Type of childcare used
• Number of children requiring care

Benefits are available for up to 230 hours monthly per child, with amounts calculated based on the lowest-earning parent’s working hours and combined family income. Apply online through the Dutch Tax Office.

Child Benefit (Kinderbijslag)

Kinderbijslag is a non-means-tested quarterly payment supporting all children whose parents live or work in the Netherlands. This universal benefit provides: Ages 0-5: €246.33 per quarter, Ages 6-11: €299.12 per quarter Ages 12-17: €351.91 per quarte learn more at SVB Child Benefit.

Child Budget (Kindgebonden Budget)

Kindgebonden Budget provides additional income-based support for families with children, offering extra financial assistance based on family income and number of children. This benefit can provide up to €1,200 annually per child for qualifying families.

Details available at Government Guide.

Municipal Preschool Subsidies

Families ineligible for kinderopvangtoeslag may qualify for income-dependent municipal support covering up to 16 hours weekly of preschool care. These subsidies vary by municipality but often cover 50-80% of preschool costs for qualifying families.

• Netherlands Healthcare & Health Insurance Guide for Residents

International Childcare Options and Planning Guide for Expat Families in the Netherlands

Navigating the Dutch childcare system as an expat family requires understanding both the general kinderopvang framework and the specialized international options available throughout the Netherlands. Major expat hubs like Amsterdam, The Hague, and Eindhoven have developed comprehensive international childcare Netherlands programs that cater specifically to the needs of multilingual families and those preparing their children for international educational pathways.

English-Speaking Daycare and International Programs

The demand for English-speaking childcare in the Netherlands has grown significantly as the country continues to attract international professionals and their families. Amsterdam leads the way with several established international daycare options that provide high-quality care while maintaining English as the primary language of instruction. Kindergarden operates multiple bilingual Dutch-English programmes throughout the city, offering children the opportunity to develop fluency in both languages while receiving excellent early childhood education. Their approach combines the structured learning environment that Dutch parents expect with the flexibility and international perspective that expat families seek.

The International Childcare Centre in Amsterdam takes a different approach, providing full English immersion experiences that prepare children for eventual enrollment in international schools. This option proves particularly valuable for families who plan to relocate again or want their children to maintain strong English language skills throughout their Dutch residency. The centre’s curriculum follows international early childhood development standards while incorporating Dutch cultural elements and basic language exposure.

Partou International has established itself as a leading provider with multiple locations across Amsterdam and other major cities, employing English-speaking staff who understand the unique challenges facing expat families. Their programs are designed to help children transition smoothly between different educational systems while maintaining their home language and cultural identity. The staff at Partou International locations often have experience working with diverse international communities, making them particularly skilled at addressing the social and emotional needs of children from various cultural backgrounds.

In The Hague, the diplomatic and international business community has created demand for specialized childcare services that understand the unique requirements of globally mobile families. Happy Kids has built a reputation serving the diplomatic community, offering flexible scheduling that accommodates the irregular hours often required by international assignments. Their staff includes native English speakers and multilingual caregivers who can communicate effectively with parents from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

The International School of The Hague extends its educational excellence to early years programming, providing a seamless transition from early childhood care to primary education within the same institutional framework. This continuity proves invaluable for families who prefer to establish long-term educational relationships and want their children to develop familiarity with the school environment before formal academics begin.

Kinderopvang International in The Hague creates a truly multilingual environment where children are exposed to English, Dutch, and often additional languages spoken by their diverse peer group. This approach helps children develop the multilingual competencies that will serve them well throughout their international upbringing while ensuring they meet Dutch language requirements for potential future integration into local schools.

Early Childhood Education and Special Support Programs

Voor- en Vroegschoolse Educatie (VVE) represents one of the Netherlands’ most progressive approaches to early childhood development, providing subsidized educational support for children aged 2-6 who may face educational disadvantages. This program focuses comprehensively on language development, socio-emotional growth, cognitive advancement, and motor skill development, creating a holistic foundation for lifelong learning success.

The VVE program operates through multiple channels to ensure accessibility for families across different circumstances. Playgroups and childcare organizations serve children ages 2.5-4, providing structured learning experiences that complement regular childcare while addressing specific developmental needs. Primary schools offer VVE programming for ages 4-5, creating smooth transitions between early childhood support and formal education. Specialized educational support centres provide intensive services for children with particular challenges or those requiring additional assistance to reach developmental milestones.

Municipal authorities determine VVE eligibility through a comprehensive assessment process that often begins with referrals from baby and toddler clinics. This systematic approach ensures that children who would benefit most from additional support receive priority access to these valuable resources. The programs maintain exceptionally high quality standards, requiring at least two qualified professionals per group and limiting group sizes to a maximum of 16 children to ensure personalized attention and optimal learning outcomes.

Registration Requirements and Access Procedures

Successfully accessing Dutch childcare and government subsidies requires completing several essential registration steps that form the foundation of your family’s integration into the Dutch system. The Burgerservicenummer (BSN) serves as your Dutch citizen service number and represents the key to accessing all registered childcare services and government benefits. Every family member must obtain their BSN by registering with their local municipality within five days of arrival in the Netherlands.

BSN registration

The BSN registration process involves visiting your local municipality office with proper identification documents, proof of address, and any relevant immigration documentation. Municipal staff will guide you through the registration process and provide information about local services, including childcare options available in your area. For detailed guidance on this process, visit BSN and Registration – Netherlands Worldwide. This initial registration creates your official presence in the Dutch system and enables access to the comprehensive support networks available to residents.

Understanding vaccination policies proves important for childcare planning, as the Netherlands maintains a unique approach to childhood immunizations. Childhood vaccinations are not mandatory, and childcare centres are required to admit unvaccinated children, reflecting the Dutch emphasis on parental choice in health decisions. However, ongoing public health debates may influence future policy changes, and some private facilities may establish their own vaccination requirements as part of their enrollment policies.

School age requirements create important planning considerations for families with children approaching primary school age. Children gain legal rights to education from age 4, with mandatory attendance beginning at age 5. Most children start primary school (basisschool) at age 4, creating transition planning needs between childcare and formal education that families must consider when selecting initial childcare arrangements.

Research Strategies and Decision-Making

Finding the right childcare requires systematic research and careful evaluation of available options. Beginning your search by consulting your municipality website provides access to local resources and official information about registered providers in your area. Local Centres for Youth and Family offer additional guidance and can provide recommendations based on your specific needs and circumstances.

Speaking with other parents at schools, libraries, and community groups provides invaluable insider knowledge about local childcare options. These conversations often reveal practical details about daily operations, staff quality, and family satisfaction levels that official websites and brochures cannot convey. Parent networks also share information about waiting list strategies, application timing, and tips for successful enrollment.

The National Childcare Register (Landelijk Register Kinderopvang) serves as the essential official resource for finding approved providers and applying for childcare allowances. This comprehensive Dutch-language database, available at Landelijk Register Kinderopvang, allows filtering by location, childcare type, and specific needs, ensuring that families can identify options that meet their particular requirements. Understanding how to navigate this system effectively proves crucial for accessing both childcare services and government financial support.

Making your final decision requires visiting potential childcare providers in person to evaluate their suitability for your family’s needs. Key factors to assess include the educational philosophy and daily routines that will shape your child’s daily experience. Safety procedures and emergency protocols demonstrate the provider’s commitment to child welfare and preparedness for various situations. Staff qualifications and turnover rates indicate the stability and quality of care your child will receive.

Facility cleanliness and age-appropriate equipment reflect the provider’s attention to creating healthy, stimulating environments for child development. Communication methods with parents determine how well you’ll stay informed about your child’s progress and daily activities. Flexibility for schedule changes or special needs indicates the provider’s ability to adapt to your family’s evolving requirements over time.

Cost Analysis and Financial Planning

Understanding the true costs of childcare in the Netherlands requires analyzing both gross expenses and net costs after applying available subsidies. Average monthly childcare costs vary significantly based on the type of care selected and the intensity of services required. Daycare centres typically charge between €600-800 for part-time care and €1,200-1,500 for full-time arrangements, representing the most expensive but also most comprehensive option available.

Childminders offer more affordable alternatives, with part-time arrangements costing €400-600 monthly and full-time care ranging from €800-1,200. This option provides personalized attention in smaller group settings while maintaining professional standards through government registration requirements. Professional nannies represent the premium option, with part-time arrangements costing €800-1,200 and full-time care ranging from €1,600-2,400, though families gain maximum flexibility and exclusive attention for their children.

Au pairs provide the most economical option for families seeking live-in help, with monthly costs ranging from €300-400 regardless of whether arrangements are part-time or full-time. This option works particularly well for families who can provide appropriate housing and want to participate in cultural exchange programs. After-school care costs range from €300-500 for part-time arrangements to €600-800 for full-time coverage, serving families with school-age children who need extended care.

The kinderopvangtoeslag system dramatically reduces net costs for eligible families, with many paying only 30-50% of gross childcare expenses. Applications for this crucial financial support can be submitted through the Dutch Tax Office – Childcare Benefit portal. This substantial subsidy makes quality childcare accessible to working families across various income levels, supporting the Dutch commitment to work-life balance and family support.

Strategic Planning Timeline and Success Factors

Success in securing appropriate Dutch childcare requires systematic planning that begins well before care is actually needed. Families should begin their childcare journey 6-12 months before requiring services, using this time to research available options thoroughly, visit multiple facilities and providers, join waiting lists for preferred options, and begin gathering required documentation for applications and subsidies.

The 3-6 months before needing care should focus on completing administrative requirements, including obtaining BSN numbers and completing municipality registration, applying for kinderopvangtoeslag, finalizing childcare arrangements, and arranging backup care options for emergencies or schedule changes. This preparation phase ensures that all systems are in place when care actually begins.

The final 1-3 months before starting childcare should concentrate on transition preparations, including completing enrollment paperwork, arranging transition visits for your child to become familiar with their new environment, coordinating with employers about schedule changes, and preparing emergency contact information and care instructions.

The Dutch childcare system offers exceptional support for working families, combining high-quality care with substantial financial assistance that makes excellent childcare accessible across income levels. Whether families choose daycare centres, childminders, or international options, understanding available rights and options ensures finding arrangements that perfectly match family needs and values. The Netherlands’ comprehensive commitment to work-life balance through extensive childcare support makes it an increasingly attractive destination for international families seeking quality living environments that support both career advancement and family well-being.