Frequently asked questions about our new name: Basker

1. Why a new name? 

In recent years, we have grown and welcomed various organisations into our childcare family. We have worked more closely together, learned from each other’s knowledge and experience, and shared our best practices. Step by step, we have grown into a single entity. With Basker, we are bringing this together under one recognisable name. This allows us to tell one clear story, work together even better and bring good initiatives and innovations to all our locations more quickly. And above all, we maintain our focus on what really matters: the children.  

While our name is changing, our commitment to offering high-quality, internationally-oriented childcare remains exactly the same. Reflecting this commitment, the Zein locations will operate under the name Basker International Childcare, with a tailored approach that suits the needs of international children and their families.  

Why invest in a new name and materials? 

Having multiple names in use led to confusion and inefficiency. By uniting under one brand, we save both time and costs. Rest assured: this investment does not come at the expense of what we provide for children. Everything we do, including this rebranding, is designed to strengthen our mission: doing what’s best for children. 

Is Basker a new organisation, or has there been a takeover? 

No, this is not a takeover. The locations formerly known as BLOS, Zein and Zonnekinderen have come together under one new name: Basker. We have long been part of the Babilou Family childcare network, so nothing has changed in that regard. We remain the same organisation, with the same familiar faces, pedagogical vision and quality of care, only under a new name.  

What does the name “Basker” mean? 

The name Basker is inspired by the English verb ‘to bask’. That is often translated as ‘to enjoy’, but it means much more than that. It’s about a warm, safe environment where you feel seen and at home. Imagine a child sitting in the sunshine. Relaxed and with an open gaze. Curious about what’s to come. But ‘basking’ is also about being proud of who you are and daring to take your place in the world. That is what we want to give children at Basker International Childcare: the space to play, to develop, to enjoy – and to explore the world with confidence.    

2. What has changed for me and my child? 

Has my childcare location remained the same? 

Yes. Your familiar location and childcare professionals remain exactly the same. Only our name and visual identity have changed, or will do so gradually in the coming period. You will notice updates such as new signs at the entrance and refreshed colours and design elements. We are doing this carefully, with as little impact on daily care as possible. 

Will the familiar faces remain? 

Absolutely. The colleagues you and your child know and trust will continue to work with us as before. Only the name under which they do so will change. Our commitment, expertise and personal approach will remain exactly the same. 

What does this mean for After School Care? 

There is something exciting for our After School Care: it will now be known as Club Basker International Childcare – a place where children feel at home, have fun and discover new things.  

Do I need to do anything, for example regarding my childcare allowance? 

No, you do not need to take any action yourself. The change to the name Basker has been automatically communicated to the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration (Belastingdienst/Toeslagen). However, please make sure to update your new childcare rates for 2026 yourself, as these are not automatically adjusted and are unrelated to the name change. 

3. What has changed within the organisation? 

What has changed about the brand/labels? 

We have combined the strengths of Zein, Zonnekinderen and BLOS, bringing these three trusted brands together under one new name: Basker.  
This means we now work as one organisation with a unified story and identity, allowing us to focus even more on what truly matters: the children, their parents and our colleagues. 

At the same time, we have preserved what works well.  
Zein locations will operate under the name Basker International Childcare, with a tailored approach that suits the needs of international children and their families, reflecting our ongoing commitment to offering high-quality, internationally-oriented childcare. 

Our partnerships with Integrated Child Centres (IKCs), formerly part of Zonnekinderen, also remain an important part of Babilou Family Nederland, now under the name Basker. 

BijdeHandjes retains its name due to its Christian identity. We believe it’s important that colleagues, children and parents who consciously choose a Christian environment continue to recognise themselves in it. 

Finally, nothing has changed at the corporate level: Babilou Family Nederland remains our parent organisation — the umbrella under which we continue to build a better future by helping children develop with care and attention. 

Examples of what has changed or will change: 

• Location name and façade signage
• Printed materials, policy documents and internal templates
• Children’s vests and certain staff clothing
• Online platforms and communication channels 

We are implementing these updates carefully and step by step. 

When did the new name officially take effect? 

Our locations have been officially registered as Basker in the National Childcare Register (LRK) since 15 October 2025. We launched our new brand online in mid-November, and in the coming months you will gradually see the new look appear across our locations. 

 What if I have a question that isn’t listed here? 

We completely understand that you may have questions. Our team is happy to help. Please contact us via [email protected], and we will be glad to assist you further.