If you're struggling to pay for childcare, it can sometimes feel like you're working for nothing. However, there are ways to save money and other trade-offs you can make based on what suits your family situation. We've listed a few for you.
A good hourly rate
An easy way to save money is to look for a good hourly rate. In practice, this means the lowest possible hourly rate, or at least one as close as possible to the maximum hourly rate, with as much as possible included in the rate. Think nappies, formula, lunch, and snacks. Read more here about how your hourly rate affects the amount of your benefit.
Opening hours
Because you almost always pay for the full opening hours of the childcare and not just the hours your child is there, it's smart to look at daycare centers (kinderdagverblijf/KDV) with shorter opening hours, as long as they work with your working hours. The longer the childcare is open, the more you pay. So look for childcare that fits your needs exactly and isn't open much longer than necessary.
Please note: many organizations charge a fine if you pick up your child (repeatedly) late. So be realistic about opening hours, your working hours, and any travel time.
Check what's included in the price
On Kiddie.nl, each childcare location's page shows which facilities are included. Look at this and decide what matters to you: organic food can mean a higher price, so if this isn't a must-have for you, you can save here. Is an outdoor playground important? Then check if there are other facilities you don't need. It's good to make a conscious choice here. Quality in the Netherlands is guaranteed by statutory minimum requirements, but extra facilities can be a nice addition.
Consider an alternative
Finding the daycare center too expensive? A childminder/host parent (gastouder) could be the answer. Childminders are generally cheaper than a daycare center or after-school care (BSO), even though you receive less benefit. So look into this option too and consider whether it appeals to you. A childminder can also suit your child very well; it's often calmer than a group setting and you have one fixed caregiver.
BSO: with or without holiday cover
With after-school care (BSO), you can often choose between a package with or without holiday cover. This means 40 school weeks versus 52 weeks a year. At first glance, 52 weeks seems more expensive since you'll also be going on holiday for several weeks yourselves. But the hourly rate for 40 weeks is higher than for 52 weeks. Moreover, most parents have far fewer holidays, so you'll still need to arrange childcare for some holiday weeks. Study days are also included in the annual contract. So carefully compare both options and do the maths to make sure you choose the right package.
Get started
Saving on childcare starts with a clear picture of your own situation. Which hours do you really need, what's your joint income for the benefit percentage, and which facilities are essential for your family? Make an overview of these factors before you start comparing locations.
On Kiddie.nl you'll find childcare locations with their hourly rates, opening hours, and what's included in the price. This way you compare not just on atmosphere and location, but also on what it will actually cost you.
