Types of childcare in the Netherlands
Day care
Nurseries provide care for children from 10 weeks to 4 years old. The nursery is usually open on working days and has extended opening hours. The pedagogical staff offer a structured program with activities aimed at the development of children.
Preschool
Preschool locations are aimed at children from 2 to 4 years old. They provide educational and social activities to stimulate the development of young children. Preschool locations are usually open during school hours and are often managed by municipalities or private organizations.
After-school care
Out-of-school care is intended for children from 4 to 12 years old that attend school. It offers childcare outside school hours, such as before and after school and during school holidays. After-school care can take place in special facilities or in schools themselves. It focuses on relaxation, play and providing a safe environment.
It is important to note that childcare in the Netherlands must comply with strict regulations and quality requirements. All forms of childcare must meet legal standards regarding safety, pedagogy and staff.
Partou locations with expat children
Maybe you prefer your child attending a childcare center where they can meet other expat children. Click the button below to discover these locations in your area. Of course, your child is also more than welcome at one of our other locations.
Childcare allowance
Childcare allowance is a financial contribution from the Dutch government to support parents with the costs of childcare. Expats can also be eligible for childcare allowance, but must take into account certain specific aspects:
1. Residence permit: To be eligible for childcare allowance, you must have a valid residence permit that entitles you to live and work in the Netherlands. Without a valid residence permit, you are not eligible for childcare allowance.
2. Registered childcare: The childcare you use must be registered with the Municipal Basic Administration (GBA) and meet the government’s quality requirements. Please make sure that the childcare institution where you register your child meets these requirements so that you are entitled to childcare allowance.
3. Income requirements: Childcare allowance is income-dependent. The amount you receive is based on your income and the number of hours you work. As an expat, you must properly document your income situation and possibly provide additional documents, such as your payslip or an income statement from the tax authorities.
4. Application process: To apply for childcare allowance, you have to submit an application to the tax authorities. This can be done online (toeslagen.nl) or via a specific app. It is important to submit the application in time, preferably before you start using childcare.
5. Report changes: If your personal situation changes, such as a change of job, income, family composition or childcare hours, you must report these changes to the tax authorities as soon as possible. This may affect the amount of childcare allowance you receive.
Calculate your costs
The costs of childcare depend on your personal situation. With our calculation tool you can easily and quickly see the (net) costs for the childcare you need. Currently this tool is only in Dutch. We are working on an English version.
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