Playing is how young children discover and understand the world around them. Through play, they develop social, emotional, language and motor skills while having fun. Qualified childcare professionals support and guide children in a safe and stimulating environment, helping them prepare for a successful start at primary school.
In Amstelveen, several childcare options are available for children aged 0–4 years.
Age: 0–4 years
Opening hours: Vary by provider and location (many centres operate approximately between 7:30 AM and 6:30 PM).
Daycare provides full-day care for children from birth until they start primary school. Depending on the location, children may be placed in:
All locations provide a safe, caring and stimulating environment where children can learn, play and develop.
Age: 2–4 years
Opening hours: Vary by provider and location (often morning sessions).
Preschool is designed for children aged 2–4 years and focuses on social, emotional and language development, while helping children prepare for primary school. Children attend for two or more sessions per week and learn through structured play activities.
A regular preschool place is available for all children.
Many working or studying parents are eligible for a childcare allowance from the Dutch Tax Administration. Eligibility and the amount of allowance depend on individual circumstances and household income.
Families who are not eligible for childcare allowance can still enrol their child in preschool but will be responsible for the full cost themselves.
For more information about childcare allowance and eligibility, please visit the website of the Dutch Tax Administration.
Some children receive a VVE (Early Childhood Education) indication from the Youth Health Care Service (JGZ). VVE offers additional support, particularly in language development, and helps children prepare for primary school.
Children with a VVE indication are prioritised when places become available and generally attend a programme of at least 16 hours per week.
If parents are not eligible for childcare allowance, the municipality may contribute towards the cost of a VVE placement.
Families who are not eligible for childcare allowance and whose child does not have a VVE indication may still qualify for a municipally subsidised preschool place.
Eligibility criteria, parental contributions and available hours may vary. More information can be found on the municipality’s website.
Several childcare organisations offer daycare and preschool programmes in Amstelveen.
Please note that availability may be limited and waiting lists may apply. For information about availability, registration procedures and costs, please contact the childcare organisation of your choice.
Annebet van Mameren from New2NL made a nice video about childcare and preschool in the Netherlands. See the video below.