The Power of Bilingual Childcare

Why choose bilingual childcare?

More and more families in the Netherlands recognise the value of growing up in an international environment. This includes expat families staying long term in the Netherlands, as well as Dutch families who consciously choose a multilingual upbringing for their children. Language plays an important role in how children understand the world around them, express themselves, and connect with others. Now and in the future.

At Basker International, we believe children learn best when language is naturally woven into their day, not through lessons, but through everyday experiences such as playing, discovering, talking, singing, asking questions, and enjoying time together. Bilingual childcare supports this approach perfectly.

The benefits of a bilingual environment

Research shows that children who grow up with more than one language from a young age:

Develop stronger problem-solving skills
Switching between languages activates different areas of the brain, encouraging flexible and creative thinking.
Adapt more easily to new situations
Bilingual children often have a broader frame of reference and can switch between environments more easily. This helps them in new groups, at school and later in life.
Are more open to other cultures and perspectives
Language and culture are deeply connected. Being exposed to two languages every day helps children develop a naturally open and curious outlook on the world.
Gain an advantage in later language learning
The earlier children hear and use different languages, the easier it becomes to learn new languages later on. The foundations are laid through play and everyday interactions.

At Basker International, we see this every day: children growing in language, confidence and joy in communication.

How bilingual childcare works at Basker International

We follow the one-teacher-one-language approach. This means:

one member of staff always speaks English
one member of staff always speaks Dutch

This gives children clarity and consistency, much like in a bilingual household. It creates a safe and predictable language environment where children know what to expect.

Bilingual groups in Day Care

Circle time takes place twice a day: once in Dutch and once in English. During play, daily routines and activities, both languages are used naturally and fluidly.

Our aim is for children to feel confident, understood and secure in both languages - without any pressure or expectation.

Bilingual groups in After School Care

Just like our regular groups, the bilingual group follows the full activity programme. Throughout the afternoon, children hear and use both languages in a natural way:

Snack time – Dutch
During snack time, conversations take place in Dutch.
Discussion & Sharing Time – English
Children share how their day has been and the planned activities for the afternoon are discussed in English.
Activity Time – depending on the setting
Indoor activities are usually in Dutch and outdoor activities are generally in English

This allows children to move between both languages in a playful, relaxed way — without pressure or expectations, but with lots of joy.