Some children only start learning Dutch after they have moved to the Netherlands. Other families choose to begin Dutch lessons before the move.

The fact that every child starts their Dutch language journey at a different moment is exactly what makes our job as teachers so rewarding. Every family has its own story, its own goals and its own pace.

With online Dutch lessons for children, your child can already start learning at home. We begin with simple words, short sentences and practical conversations. Children learn how to introduce themselves, ask their teacher a question, name classroom objects and talk about their age, hobbies and family.

Of course, your child does not need to speak perfect Dutch before starting in a Dutch bridging class (schakelklas). However, having a small foundation can make a huge difference. The first day at school often feels much less overwhelming when a child already understands a few words and knows how to ask simple questions.

At Dutch for Kids, we teach Dutch to expat children of all ages and language levels. Some children already speak Dutch at home and want to improve their reading, writing, spelling and grammar. Others are complete beginners and learn their very first Dutch words with us.

Dutch lessons during or after a bridging class

A bridging class gives children an excellent foundation, but moving on to a regular Dutch primary or secondary school is another exciting step.

Your child not only meets a new teacher and new classmates, but also starts following subjects such as maths, geography, history and reading comprehension entirely in Dutch. Everyday conversations may already feel comfortable, while academic language, spelling and grammar are often still challenging.

That is why many parents choose to continue with extra Dutch lessons alongside school. Some children take lessons during the summer holidays before starting their new school, while others have one online lesson per week during their first months in a regular Dutch classroom.

Every lesson is completely tailored to your child’s needs. We may work on:

• Reading comprehension
• Dutch vocabulary
• Spelling and grammar
• Writing skills
• Speaking confidence
• Topics that are covered at school

This creates a safe and supportive transition from the bridging class to a regular Dutch primary or secondary school.

Frequently asked questions about the Dutch bridging class (schakelklas)

1. What is a Dutch bridging class (schakelklas)?

A bridging class is designed for children who do not yet speak enough Dutch to immediately join all lessons in a regular Dutch school.

Children receive intensive Dutch language instruction while also becoming familiar with the Dutch education system.

Depending on the school or municipality, a bridging class may also be called a language class, newcomer class or international bridging class.

2. How long does a child stay in a bridging class?

This varies from child to child.

Some children move on to a regular classroom after about six months. Others stay for one year, eighteen months or sometimes even two years.

The length of time depends on several factors, including your child’s age, starting level, how quickly they learn Dutch and their previous educational experience.

3. Does my child need to speak Dutch before starting a bridging class?

No.

Many children start a bridging class without speaking any Dutch at all.

They begin with simple sentences such as:

“My name is Adam.”

“I am eight years old.”

“This is my pencil.”

“May I go to the toilet?”

From there, their Dutch develops step by step.

Some families also choose to start online Dutch lessons before moving to the Netherlands. This often gives children extra confidence during their first weeks at school.

4. What does my child learn in a bridging class?

Children learn to speak, understand, read and write Dutch.

As their language develops, they also work on vocabulary, grammar, spelling and reading comprehension.

In addition, they learn how a Dutch school works. They practise working independently, following classroom instructions, asking questions, working together with classmates and participating in everyday school activities, including PE and outdoor play.

5. Will my child attend a regular Dutch school after the bridging class?

In most cases, yes.

After completing the bridging class, children move on to a regular Dutch primary or secondary school. The school works together with parents to decide which class and level are the best fit.

Your child does not need to speak perfect Dutch at that point. The most important thing is that they have built a solid foundation to participate confidently in class and continue developing their language skills.

6. Does my child still need Dutch lessons after the bridging class?

Not every child does, but many families appreciate some additional support during the transition.

Moving to a regular Dutch school can be a big step. Children suddenly need to understand longer texts, read assignments, write answers and learn subject-specific vocabulary.

Online Dutch lessons provide targeted support exactly where it is needed, helping children build both their language skills and their confidence.

7. Can Dutch for Kids help before we move to the Netherlands?

Absolutely.

Many children start learning Dutch before they move.

We always begin at your child’s own level. Some children are complete beginners, while others already work on reading, spelling, grammar or reading comprehension.

For beginners, we focus on practical Dutch that children can immediately use at home, at school and while playing with friends.

8. Can Dutch for Kids help during or after a bridging class?

Yes.

We regularly support children who are currently attending a bridging class or who have recently moved on to a regular Dutch school.

Our lessons are fully personalised. We help children with the transition, explain Dutch grammar and spelling rules, practise reading comprehension and reinforce the topics they are learning at school.

9. What is the difference between a bridging class and online Dutch lessons?

In a bridging class, children learn Dutch every day in a classroom together with other newcomer children.

Our online Dutch lessons are different.

Every lesson is taught one-to-one and is completely personalised. We adapt the lessons to your child’s level, learning pace and personal goals.

The two approaches complement each other perfectly. While the bridging class provides daily immersion in Dutch, our individual lessons offer extra time for questions, revision, spelling practice and personal attention.

10. Are bridging classes also available for older children?

Yes.

Bridging classes are available for different age groups.

For primary school children, they are usually called a bridging class, language class or newcomer class.

Older students who enter Dutch secondary education often attend an International Bridging Class, commonly known as an ISK.

Dutch for Kids also supports older children and teenagers with online Dutch lessons, both before moving to the Netherlands and alongside their education after they arrive.