Practical tips for expat families returning to the Netherlands
Moving to the Netherlands is a big adventure. Perhaps you’re looking forward to being closer to family, relocating for work, or simply starting a new chapter in life. But no matter how exciting the move may be, it can feel overwhelming for children.
Last week, I spoke with a mother who called me from England. Her family is moving to the Netherlands this summer, and her biggest concern wasn’t the move itself. Instead, she asked:
“How can I help my children feel safe and confident when they start at their new school?”
A very understandable question.
Maybe you can relate. You’re busy arranging housing, paperwork, work commitments, and schools, while your child is saying goodbye to friends, familiar surroundings, and perhaps even a language that feels like home.
Children learn best when they feel safe. That’s why your child doesn’t need to speak perfect Dutch right away. What matters most is that they feel welcome, make friends, and know that it’s okay to make mistakes. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to make the transition to the Netherlands easier. Also if you’re not a native Dutch speaker yourself, or even don’t speak any Dutch at all!
1. Introduce Dutch in a fun and playful way
There’s no need to start with textbooks and grammar exercises.
Instead, visit a local library as soon as you arrive in the Netherlands. Many libraries offer both English and Dutch children’s books. Looking at pictures together, comparing words, and reading simple stories can help children become familiar with the language naturally.
Dutch television programs can also be very helpful. For example, try watching Bluey in Dutch. Children quickly become familiar with the sounds and rhythm of the language. You can even turn on English subtitles so you can follow along and explain what’s happening.
The goal isn’t to understand everything immediately. The goal is to make Dutch feel familiar.
2. Help your child make friends before school starts
One of the biggest worries many children have is:
“Will I make friends?”
That’s why it’s helpful if children can meet other kids before the school year begins.
Some great options include:
- Dutch sports camps
- Summer camps
- Expat camps that support children who don’t speak Dutch yet
- Playdates with local children
I personally taught at Dutch expat camps for many years and saw firsthand how valuable it is when children already know a few Dutch friends before starting school. It boosts confidence and makes those first weeks much less intimidating.
3. Create a Dutch vocabulary notebook together
Buy a fun notebook and turn it into your family’s personal Dutch dictionary.
Write down new words you discover:
- While walking around town
- At the supermarket
- At school
- During playdates
Not only will your child learn, but you’ll learn too. Many children enjoy seeing how many Dutch words they’ve collected over time.
Learning Dutch becomes a shared family adventure.
4. Encourage outdoor play
The Netherlands is a country where children spend a lot of time outdoors.
Kids often play outside in neighborhoods, parks, playgrounds, and town squares. This is where many friendships begin.
Through play, children naturally learn:
- New vocabulary
- Dutch customs
- Social skills
- How to interact with other children
Inviting classmates or neighborhood children over to play can also help your child feel more at home in their new environment.
5. Let your child visit their new school
If you’re arriving shortly before the summer holidays, ask whether your child can visit the school before the new school year begins.
This gives them the opportunity to:
- See their classroom
- Meet their teacher
- Explore the school building
- Meet future classmates
The more familiar faces your child sees before their first day, the less overwhelming that first day will feel.
You can also ask if the school has a parent WhatsApp group or online community. Connecting with other families can make arranging summer playdates much easier.
6. Prepare for Dutch school routines
This may sound like a small detail, but for children, it can make a big difference.
Ask the school questions such as:
- What do children typically bring for snack time?
- What supplies are required?
- Are there any school traditions or routines we should know about?
Children often want to fit in. Having similar school supplies and snacks as their classmates can help them feel more comfortable and confident.
Shopping together for a lunchbox, water bottle, and school supplies can also make the upcoming transition feel exciting and positive.
7. Consider extra Dutch language support
Some children pick up a new language very quickly. Others benefit from a little extra support before the move.
At Dutch for Kids, we often see that children feel much more confident when they have already been introduced to Dutch before returning to the Netherlands. Through personalized one-on-one online Dutch lessons, children can practice everyday vocabulary, conversations, and situations they are likely to encounter at school.
This not only improves their language skills but also helps them feel safe and prepared when they walk into their new classroom.
Many families choose an online Dutch course before relocating so their children can begin their new adventure with greater confidence.
Give your child time
Moving to the Netherlands is a major life change. Some children adapt quickly, while others need more time.
Both are completely normal.
Keep listening to your child’s feelings. Give them space to share their worries, questions, and excitement. Celebrate small victories along the way. A first Dutch word, a new friendship, or a successful playdate are all important milestones.
In the end, it’s not perfect Dutch that creates a successful transition. It’s the feeling of being safe, supported, and welcomed.
Free E-book: 30 fun activities to prepare for life in the Netherlands
Would you like to help your child prepare for the move to the Netherlands in a fun and relaxed way this summer?
Download our free e-book with 30 enjoyable activities you can do together during the summer holidays. These activities help children learn about the Dutch language, culture, and daily life while creating wonderful family memories.
Whether you’ve already arrived in the Netherlands or are still preparing for the move, these activities will help your child start this new chapter with confidence and excitement.
Download your free e-book today and give your child a safe, positive, and confident start in the Netherlands.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to the Netherlands with Children
My child doesn’t speak Dutch yet. Can they still attend a Dutch school?
Yes. Dutch schools are increasingly experienced in welcoming children who have lived abroad. It can help if your child is already familiar with some basic Dutch through books, videos, or online Dutch lessons before starting school.
How long does it take for children to learn Dutch?
Every child is different. Some children begin understanding Dutch within a few months, while speaking and writing fluently usually takes longer. The most important thing is that children feel comfortable enough to communicate and make mistakes.
What can we do during the summer holidays to prepare for the move?
Read Dutch books, watch Dutch children’s programs, visit playgrounds, arrange playdates with Dutch children, and create a Dutch vocabulary notebook together. Small daily activities often make the biggest difference.
Is it normal for my child to feel nervous about moving?
Absolutely. Many children feel anxious about leaving friends, school, and familiar surroundings behind. Talk openly about the move and make space for all emotions. It’s perfectly normal to feel both excited and sad at the same time.
Do online Dutch lessons help children prepare for school in the Netherlands?
For many children, yes. Especially if they don’t speak much Dutch yet, personalized one-on-one support can help them feel more confident when starting school. They become familiar with everyday words and conversations, which often helps them settle in more quickly.
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