Gastouder (Childminder) Care in the Netherlands: An Expat's Guide

What is Gastouderopvang?

Gastouderopvang translates to 'host parent care' or childminder care. A gastouder is a professional who cares for children, typically in their own home, but sometimes also at the child's home. They care for a small group of children, usually up to six children under the age of 13, including their own, at any given time. This small group size allows for more individualized attention and a consistent caregiver.

This form of childcare is available for children from birth up to secondary school age, providing a continuum of care as children grow.

Benefits for Expat Families

Gastouderopvang offers several distinct advantages, particularly appealing to expat families:

• Flexible Hours: Gastouders often provide more flexible childcare hours than traditional daycare centers, including early mornings, evenings, or occasional weekends, which can be ideal for varying work schedules.
• Homely Environment: Children are cared for in a home setting, which can feel less overwhelming and more familiar, especially for young children or those new to a foreign country.
• Individualized Attention: With a smaller group size, children generally receive more personalized care and attention from a single, consistent caregiver.
• Language Exposure: If you find a Dutch gastouder, it provides excellent natural exposure to the Dutch language for your children, aiding integration. Some gastouders may also be able to communicate in English.
• Mixed-Age Groups: Often, children of different ages are cared for together, simulating a family environment and fostering sibling-like relationships.

Regulation and Quality: Working with a Gastouderbureau

To ensure quality and eligibility for childcare subsidies, gastouders must be officially registered. This involves working through a 'Gastouderbureau' (Childminder Agency).

• LRK Registration: The gastouder and the Gastouderbureau must be registered in the National Childcare Register (Landelijk Register Kinderopvang - LRK). This is essential for parents to claim 'kinderopvangtoeslag'.
• Qualifications: Gastouders must have relevant pedagogical qualifications, a valid first-aid certificate for children, and be screened for criminal records (VOG - Verklaring Omtrent het Gedrag).
• Home Inspections: The Gastouderbureau, and sometimes the GGD (municipal health service), conduct regular inspections of the gastouder's home to ensure it meets safety and hygiene standards.
• Support and Administration: The Gastouderbureau handles administrative tasks, provides pedagogical support, and mediates between parents and childminders.

Costs and Childcare Subsidies

Gastouder hourly rates typically range from €5.50 to €7.50, depending on location, experience, and services offered. While this might seem lower than daycare, remember that you also pay a fee to the Gastouderbureau.

Eligible expat parents can claim 'kinderopvangtoeslag' (childcare subsidy) from the Belastingdienst. For gastouderopvang, there's a maximum hourly rate that the subsidy covers. In 2025, this maximum is estimated to be around €7.30 per hour. Your actual reimbursement depends on your household income and the number of children.

For full details on eligibility and how to apply for the subsidy, refer to our articles on Childcare Subsidies in the Netherlands and Childcare Subsidies Application.

Finding a Gastouder

The best way to find a gastouder is through a Gastouderbureau. They have a network of vetted professionals and can help match you with a suitable childminder based on your needs (location, hours, language, pedagogical approach).

1. Contact a Gastouderbureau: Research agencies in your area and reach out.
2. Specify Your Needs: Clearly communicate your required hours, location, number of children, and any specific preferences (e.g., English-speaking).
3. Meet Potential Gastouders: Arrange introductory meetings to assess their home environment, discuss their approach, and see how your children interact with them.
4. Check References: If possible, speak to other parents who use their services.
5. Review Contract: Carefully read the contract provided by the Gastouderbureau and the gastouder.