You've just found out you're pregnant, and everyone tells you the same thing: sign up as soon as possible, at as many childcare locations as you can. Don't even bother looking around first — just register everywhere. But whether that's actually the smartest approach is worth questioning.
Waiting list vs. no spot: what's the difference?
When you register your (unborn) child at a daycare center (kinderdagverblijf/KDV), there are two possible outcomes: they have a spot available right away, or you're placed on a waiting list. That second scenario can vary enormously. Most daycare centers don't plan more than 3 to 4 months ahead. There are simply too many variables: children leaving, staffing changes, siblings getting priority — the list goes on. Being on the waiting list doesn't necessarily mean there's no space; it just means you need to "wait" until the next planning round. Other locations plan much further ahead — sometimes more than a year out. In that case, being on the waiting list does mean there's a genuine shortage of spots, with demand exceeding available capacity. As a parent, this distinction matters a great deal.
The confusion for parents
Parents think: with waiting lists the way they are these days, I'll just sign up everywhere and decide later who has a spot. But because different organizations plan in completely different ways, you'll never get a neat, side-by-side overview of all your options at once. You might receive an offer from location A tomorrow, but not hear from location B for another six months. And once an offer comes in, you typically have only a short window to accept it before it expires. That's how you can end up missing out on the place that would have suited you best.
The confusion for childcare providers
On the other side, childcare providers quickly lose track when everyone signs up indiscriminately. A coordinator goes through the effort of finding a spot for a child, only to never hear back from the parents — because they've already found a place somewhere else.
Why your choice really matters
Choosing a daycare center or childcare provider is a significant decision. First and foremost, you're choosing a co-caregiver for your child. Does this location's approach align with your values? Do you feel comfortable with the staff and the environment? Is the location actually convenient — relative to your work and home — or will it add even more time to your commute?
On top of that, childcare in the Netherlands is expensive, even with the childcare benefit (kinderopvangtoeslag). You might be able to sign a contract with a premium location straight away, but find yourself having second thoughts a few months in. The difference can easily run into hundreds of euros per month.
Finally, experience shows that parents rarely switch daycare centers — even when they're not entirely happy. By then, your child has built a bond with their regular caregivers, made friends in the group, and settled into a routine. Starting the waiting list process all over again is the last thing most new parents have time for. All of this makes that first decision even more important.
How early should you register for childcare?
Earlier is always better — that still holds true. But you can also register too early; most providers accept registrations from 12 weeks of pregnancy onwards. We recommend signing up between week 12 and week 25 of your pregnancy, and if you're moving to a new area, as soon as possible.
Getting started: how to find a place that's truly right for you
Start exploring before you sign up — and Kiddie.nl is here to help. Browse locations in your neighborhood or along your route to work, read Municipal Health Service (GGD) inspection reports, and compare activities and services. During your tour, ask about the placement policy, how long the average wait is for your preferred days, and what happens if you're unable to accept an offer when it comes.
