Gastouderopvang in the Netherlands

To what extent is childminding a true alternative to childcare centres in The Netherlands?

Tijne Berg- le Clercq

November 30, 2010

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Conclusion my plenary speechOver time, childminding agencies and childminders in The Netherlands have had to meet more (strict) demands

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Central question of this presentation To what extent is childminding a true alternative to childcare centres in The Netherlands?

3 main differences:– Amount of child care allowance paid – Personal attention & flexibility– Quality

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Difference 1:Amount of child care allowance paid(The governmental perspective)

Maximum hourly rate 2010:

• Child care centres: € 6,25

• Child minding: € 5,00

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Difference 2:Personal attention & flexibility(The parent perspective)Pros & cons of child care services & childminding according to parents in 2007:• Child care centres:

– Pay attention to quality– Have well-educated staff– But give child little personal attention– Are not very flexible in their opening hours

• Childminding:– Is personal, small & flexible– Parents doubt its quality

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Difference 3:Quality (The employer perspective)More (detailed) quality demands for child care centres than for childminding agencies:

• CC: Should apply for more permits

• CC: Should comply with hygiene code

• CC: Should create playground equipment logbook

• CC: Should draw up risk inventory & evaluation

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Difference 3:Quality (The employer perspective)More (detailed) quality demands for child care centres than for childminding agencies:• Maximum number of cared for children:

– CC: 12 – Childminding: 6

• Size inside and outside play areas: – CC: specified m2 – Childminding: sufficient space

• Pedagogical practice:– CC: More detailed indicators for measuring

quality than for childminding

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