How does childcare work in the Netherlands?

As a parent or caregiver, you decide whether or not to send your child to childcare. It is not mandatory. Still, many families choose childcare, often because both parents work or study.

In addition, many families consciously choose childcare because children learn and discover through play, together with their peers. Research shows that childcare can have a positive effect on children’s social and emotional development. (Source: NOS (2024). Childcare has a positive effect: children are less restless and less depressed. nos.nl.)

In the Netherlands, there are several types of childcare. Which option suits your family best depends on your child’s age and your family situation.

• Daycare (0–4 years)

Your child attends during the day. Most daycare centres are open between 7:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., allowing you to bring and pick up your child at times that fit your day. Children play, eat and sleep at the centre and are guided by well-trained Pedagogical Professionals. They provide structure, personal attention and a safe environment.

• Childminder care (0-4 years)

With childminder care, your child is cared for in the childminder’s own home. This is a small-scale and homely form of childcare. The childminder must be registered in the National Childcare Register and meet strict quality requirements.

• Bilingual childcare (0-4 years)

Bilingual childcare is also available in the Netherlands. This is ideal if you are raising your child bilingually. At CompaNanny, we offer bilingual childcare at several locations: in Amstelveen, The Hague and Amsterdam. In bilingual groups, children hear and speak both Dutch and English, allowing them to develop both languages naturally.

• Kindergarten/toddler care (2–4 years)

Kindergarten, or toddler care, is often only open in the morning. At CompaNanny, children are welcome at Kindergarten from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The focus is on learning through play, such as language development, playing together with other children and getting used to a daily routine. A great preparation for primary school!

• After-school care (4–12 years)

At the After-school care, often referred to as BSO, children can relax after a school day and choose from a variety of activities: from creative projects to playing outside. Most locations are also open during school study days and school holidays, so you can always rely on childcare when you need it.

Childcare in the Netherlands is not free. Costs vary per childcare organisation and by type of care. Hourly rates are partly determined by which services and care products are included, such as meals, diapers, activities or parenting support.

In most cases, you pay an hourly rate and agree in a contract on the number of childcare hours you use.

Read more about our childcare costs at CompaNanny.

Fortunately, many parents are eligible for a financial contribution from the government, known as childcare allowance. If you qualify, you receive a monthly reimbursement for part of the costs, making childcare more accessible.

The amount of childcare allowance you receive depends on several factors, such as:

• The hourly rate
• Combined gross annual household income
• Type of childcare (Daycare, Kindergarten, After-school care)
• Number of childcare days per week

Would you like to know whether you’re eligible for childcare allowance and how to apply? Read our blog: Everything you need to know about childcare allowance 2026.

In the Netherlands, it’s wise to register early for childcare. Waiting lists are very common. Many parents therefore register their child during pregnancy, which offers peace of mind and certainty.

The registration process differs per organisation. Often, it starts with a tour so you can get a feel for the atmosphere, ask questions and get to know the childcare centre and Professionals. After that, you register your child—usually via the website—and receive a contract with a start date once a place becomes available.

Starting childcare can be exciting and may take some time. For both your child and you. That’s why most childcare organisations in the Netherlands offer one or more settling-in days. This allows your child to gradually become familiar with the new environment, the Pedagogical Professionals and the other children. Our professionals do everything they can to help your child feel at home as quickly as possible!