Pedagogical approaches form the foundation of educational policy in childcare. They guide how childcare professionals support children in their development. In the Netherlands, several educational theories influence daily practice in daycare centers (kinderdagverblijf/KDV), after-school care (BSO), and with childminders (gastouderopvang). In this blog post, we take a closer look at the most common approaches, their principles, and how they translate into everyday childcare practice.
The Reggio Emilia Approach
The Reggio Emilia approach was developed by Loris Malaguzzi in the Italian town of Reggio Emilia. This philosophy views children as capable, curious beings who are able to guide their own learning process.
Core principles:
- The child has '100 languages' for self-expression (such as drawing, building, and music)
- The environment is the 'third educator' (alongside parents and childcare professionals)
- Documentation of the learning process is essential
In practice: At a daycare center working according to the Reggio Emilia approach, you will often see:
- Plenty of natural materials and open-ended toys
- Project-based learning driven by children's interests
- Photos and descriptions of activities displayed on the walls
Advantages:
- Encourages creativity and self-expression
- Children learn through exploration and discovery
- Strong parental involvement
Disadvantages:
- Can feel less structured to some
- Places high demands on childcare professionals in terms of observation and documentation
- Can be costly due to specific materials and room setup
The Montessori Method
Developed by Maria Montessori, this method emphasizes children's natural development and their intrinsic motivation to learn.
Core principles:
- Respect for the child and their development
- A prepared environment with specific learning materials
- Freedom within boundaries
In practice: In a Montessori daycare center, you will see:
- Materials at child height, accessible for independent use
- Mixed-age groups
- Children choosing their own activities
Advantages:
- Promotes independence and self-sufficiency
- Children learn at their own pace
- Encourages concentration and perseverance
Disadvantages:
- Can be seen as overly individualistic
- Less emphasis on imaginative play
- Requires specific training for childcare professionals
The Pikler Approach
Emmi Pikler developed this approach, which focuses primarily on the youngest children (ages 0–4) and the value of respectful caregiving.
Core principles:
- Respect for the child's autonomy
- The importance of free movement and independent play
- Full, undivided attention during caregiving moments
In practice: At a daycare center following the Pikler approach, you will see:
- Spaces designed for free movement, without baby walkers or bouncy seats
- Childcare professionals calmly observing rather than intervening
- A strong focus on one-on-one moments during nappy changes and feeding
Advantages:
- Promotes motor development and self-confidence
- Strong attachment between child and caregiver
- A calm, stress-free environment for babies and toddlers
Disadvantages:
- Can come across as 'cold' to some parents due to less physical contact
- Requires patience and restraint from childcare professionals
- Less suited to older children who seek more stimulation and challenge
Steiner (Waldorf) Education
Rudolf Steiner's philosophy forms the basis of this holistic approach to child development, which places a strong emphasis on creativity and spirituality.
Core principles:
- Development in seven-year phases
- Emphasis on rhythm and repetition
- The importance of imagination and natural materials
In practice: In a Steiner daycare center, you will see:
- Plenty of natural materials and handmade toys
- Daily, weekly, and seasonal rhythms and rituals
- A strong focus on artistic activities and outdoor play
Advantages:
- Encourages imagination and creativity
- Offers a calm, homely atmosphere
- A strong connection with nature and the seasons
Disadvantages:
- Can be perceived as overly spiritual or old-fashioned
- Less emphasis on cognitive skills in the early years
- Limited use of modern technology
The Gordon Method
Developed by Thomas Gordon, this method focuses on effective communication between adults and children.
Core principles:
- Active listening
- I-messages
- Conflict resolution where both parties win
In practice: At a daycare center applying the Gordon method, you will see:
- Childcare professionals getting down to children's eye level when talking to them
- Children being encouraged to name and express their feelings
- A collaborative approach to finding solutions during conflicts
Advantages:
- Promotes emotional intelligence
- Teaches children to communicate effectively
- Encourages problem-solving thinking
Disadvantages:
- Can be time-consuming in a busy group setting
- Requires consistent application, including by parents at home
- Can feel too rational for very young children
The Emmi Pikler Approach
Emmi Pikler developed this approach, which focuses primarily on the youngest children (ages 0–4) and the value of respectful caregiving.
Core principles:
- Respect for the child's autonomy
- The importance of free movement and independent play
- Full, undivided attention during caregiving moments
In practice: At a daycare center following the Pikler approach, you will see:
- Spaces designed for free movement, without baby walkers or bouncy seats
- Childcare professionals calmly observing rather than intervening
- A strong focus on one-on-one moments during nappy changes and feeding
Advantages:
- Promotes motor development and self-confidence
- Strong attachment between child and caregiver
- A calm, stress-free environment for babies and toddlers
Disadvantages:
- Can come across as 'cold' to some parents due to less physical contact
- Requires patience and restraint from childcare professionals
- Less suited to older children who seek more stimulation and challenge
In Practice: Combining Methods
In practice, childcare organisations often combine elements from several different approaches. They select the aspects that best fit their vision and the needs of the children and families they serve. For example, a daycare center might emphasise free play (Pikler), while also offering structured activities (Montessori) and communicating effectively with children (Gordon).
It is well worth taking the time as a parent to explore the educational philosophy of a childcare setting. This allows you to make a well-informed choice that aligns with your own parenting style and your child's needs. During a visit or tour, don't hesitate to ask how the chosen method or methods are put into practice on a daily basis.
The Role of the Childcare Professional
Regardless of the approach chosen, childcare professionals play a crucial role in putting educational policy into practice. Their interactions with children, the way they set up the environment, and the activities they offer all determine the quality of care provided.
High-quality childcare organisations therefore invest in the ongoing professional development of their staff. They provide training, encourage reflection, and offer on-the-job coaching. This ensures that childcare professionals continue to grow and are able to apply their chosen educational principles as effectively as possible in their day-to-day work.
In Conclusion
Choosing a particular pedagogical approach in childcare is rarely a black-and-white decision. Every approach has its strengths, and every child is unique. What matters most is that there is a well-considered vision that is applied consistently and reviewed regularly.
As a parent, your best starting point is to consider which approach fits your child and your own parenting values. Visit several childcare locations, observe how the professionals interact with the children, and ask questions about their educational approach. That way, you will find the place where your child can truly thrive and look forward to going every day.
