From Moving In to Feeling at Home
Every great explorer needs a local guide. At Little Dutchies we support the whole family by demystifying the Dutch school system. Whether you’re navigating enrollment or choosing between educational philosophies, our background as Dutch primary school teachers ensures you have the expertise to make the best decisions for your little explorer. We bridge the gap between “moving in” and “feeling at home”.
Navigate the Dutch School System with Confidence
Choosing the right school is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make for your child. As certified Dutch teachers we offer 1-on-1 consultations to help you navigate this transition with clarity and ease.
During our one-hour online session (€100) we provide personalised advice tailored to your child’s needs. Whether you are curious about the different educational philosophies (like Montessori or Dalton), need help with primary school enrollment in Amsterdam, or want to understand what a typical Dutch school day looks like, we are here to answer your specific questions.
Common topics we cover include:
Which school philosophy best suits my child’s personality?
How does the enrollment system for primary schools in Amsterdam actually work?
What role do parents play in the Dutch primary school community?
After our session you will receive a personalized ‘Explorer’s Summary’ email with the key takeaways and links discussed, so you don’t have to worry about taking notes while we talk.
Sessions are held via Google Meet. Ready to get started?
Join Our Community of Explorers
Moving to the Netherlands shouldn’t feel like a solo trek. On our social media channels we share ‘trail notes’ to help your family navigate life in the Netherlands.
Instagram & Facebook
Follow us for a peek into our Guided Playdates, quick tips for learning Dutch at home, and “Expat Life Hacks” to help you feel like a local. Follow the Adventure on Instagram & Facebook:
YouTube
Subscribe to our channel where we explain the Dutch school system, give you a sneak peek into Dutch education, explain school traditions (like Sinterklaas and Koningsdag) and much more. Subscribe on YouTube:
Your Local Toolkit
We know that settling into a new country involves more than just language. To help you build your new life in the Netherlands we’ve gathered a few of our favorite resources that every expat family should have in their “backpack”.
“Navigate your expat adventure with confidence, clarity and ease!”
Navigating the System
- New2NL: An excellent resource for deep dives into the Dutch education system and help with school applications.
- Access Netherlands: A non-profit organization that helps internationals with everything from healthcare to housing.
- I am Expat: The go-to digital hub for internationals in the Netherlands. It covers the logistical side of moving (taxes, housing, healthcare) and is an essential guide for navigating the practical side of your Dutch adventure.
Living & Playing Like a Local
- Amsterdam Mamas: A massive, supportive community. Their website and Facebook group are perfect for finding the best “Kopje Koffie” spots with play areas or finding a local pediatrician.
- Kidsproof Amsterdam: (Note: Use Google Translate on this one!) This is the “secret weapon” for Dutch parents. It lists every kid-friendly event, workshop and museum activity in the city and surrounding areas like Amstelveen.
- I Amsterdam: The guide to everything Amsterdam. Look up essential information on living, studying and working in the Amsterdam Area. Also check out their events agenda for all of the upcoming events.
Language & Culture for the Home
- The Dutch Library (OBA): Membership for children is free! They have a great selection of “Prentenboeken” (picture books) and often host “Voorleesuurtje” (storytime) sessions.
- The Reading Corner: A wonderful digital library of animated picture books. It’s a fantastic way for your child to enjoy beautiful stories in Dutch at home, helping them connect the words they hear to the stories they love.
A Little Extra:
Helpful Instagram Accounts
@LittleDutchiesAmsterdam
For daily inspiration and Dutch vocabulary.
@GemeenteAmsterdam
To keep an eye on playground renovations and city-wide festivals like King’s Day.