Every child deserves to be seen and heard
Our mission is simple: To turn “I don’t understand” into “I can do this!” one playdate at a time
At Little Dutchies we believe every child deserves to be seen and heard. Founded by a certified Dutch primary school teacher with expertise by experience, Little Dutchies bridges the gap between “moving in” and “feeling at home.” Through our unique, play-based approach, we transform language learning into a joyful expedition, giving expat children the tools and confidence they need to truly thrive in their new Dutch classroom and Amsterdam community.
Every child’s path in their Great Dutch Adventure is unique. Whether your little explorer is just starting at Basecamp or is ready to start Unlocking the Letter Chest, our expeditions are designed to meet them exactly where they are.
Ready to start the journey? Explore our expeditions below to find the perfect roadmap for your child’s Great Dutch adventure.
We exist to provide a softer, more personal landing.
Our philosophy is built on three pillars:
Expertise with Empathy
We are certified primary school teachers who live and breathe the Dutch curriculum. We know exactly which Dutch school vocabulary your child needs to feel safe, secure and ready to excel in class.
The Power of One-on-One
We believe the comfort of a child’s own home is the safest harbour for learning. Without the pressure of a large group, explorers are braver, more daring and find their voice faster.
Play as a Language
Children don’t learn best through grammar drills; they learn through joyful connection. We use the universal language of play to make Dutch an adventure, not a chore.
The Heart Behind the Adventure: Meet Helen
Why I turned my own Dutch adventure into a mission for your child
I’ve been in your child’s shoes
When I was eight year old my family moved from England to the Netherlands. I still remember the overwhelming feeling of walking into a classroom where the sounds, smells and words felt like a puzzle I couldn’t solve. I felt held back and at a disadvantage, wanting to connect, but not knowing how.
The Power of a “Glue Stick” Moment
The turning point wasn’t a textbook; it was my teacher sitting with me, cutting pictures out of magazines and sticking them into a notebook. That one-on-one attention transformed my anxiety into a sense of belonging. It’s those small, supportive moments that stay with a child forever.
From the Classroom to Your Living Room
After graduating at the University of Applied Sciences in 2012 and working in the education sector—first for five years as a university study coach and then for seven years as a certified primary school teacher—I saw history repeating itself. I watched brilliant, non-native children feel lost in busy classrooms because teachers simply didn’t have the time to offer that vital one-on-one support.
Why I Created Little Dutchies
I founded Little Dutchies to be the bridge I wish I’d had when I first arrived in the Netherlands. Little Dutchies is unique because we don’t do drills or use impersonal online screens.
- We speak “Play”: We use the universal language of fun to teach.
- We focus on School: All of our certified Dutch primary school teachers teach the specific vocabulary your child needs to thrive in a Dutch classroom.
- We come to you: We build confidence in the safest place on earth—your home.
I’m here to make sure your child’s “Great Dutch Adventure” is filled with joy, one playdate at a time.