KNM: Children & Parenting
Dutch parenting emphasizes independence, open communication, and respect for children's opinions. Physical punishment is illegal. Childcare (kinderopvang)...
Dutch parenting emphasizes independence, open communication, and respect for children's opinions. Physical punishment is illegal. Childcare (kinderopvang) is common from a young age, and the government provides childcare allowance (kinderopvangtoeslag) to help with costs. Work-life balance is prioritized.
| English | Dutch | Age/Details |
|---|---|---|
| Childcare | Kinderopvang | From 0-4 years |
| Childminder | Gastouder | Care at home of host parent |
| After-school care | BSO | Ages 4-12, after school |
| Child health clinic | Consultatiebureau | Free check-ups, vaccinations |
| Maternity leave | Zwangerschapsverlof | At least 16 weeks |
| Parental leave | Ouderschapsverlof | 26 weeks per parent (partially paid) |
| Pregnancy/Birth | Dutch | What to Know |
|---|---|---|
| Midwife | Verloskundige | Contact a midwife when you are pregnant; the first appointment is usually around week 7-10 |
| Pregnancy checks | Zwangerschapscontroles | The midwife checks the health of the mother and the growth of the baby |
| Gynecologist | Gynaecoloog | A specialist doctor for pregnancy or birth when extra medical care is needed |
| Maternity care | Kraamzorg | Help for mother and baby after birth; covered by basic insurance, sometimes with a personal contribution |
| Birth registration | Geboorteaangifte | Register the birth at the municipality within 3 days |
| Baby health insurance | Zorgverzekering kind | Add the baby to a health insurer within 4 months after birth |
Examples
- Mijn kind gaat naar de kinderopvang.
- My child goes to childcare.
- Krijg je kinderopvangtoeslag?
- Do you receive childcare allowance?
- Het consultatiebureau controleert de groei.
- The child health clinic monitors growth.
- Slaan is verboden in Nederland.
- Hitting is prohibited in the Netherlands.
Study note
The Consultatiebureau provides free health check-ups and vaccinations for children 0-4 years. Vaccination is not mandatory but strongly recommended - most Dutch parents vaccinate. If you have concerns about a child's welfare (yours or others), contact Veilig Thuis (Safe at Home).
Practice after reading
Train knowledge of Dutch society with timed KNM practice questions.