SKSG Baloe

SKSG Baloe is a daycare centre located in a charming former school building at Gerbrand Bakkerstraat 107, right in the heart of Groningen. Hidden behind a gate lies a large, leafy garden where up to 82 children aged 0–4 can play, explore and feel at home. The city centre and UMCG hospital are both within walking distance. Babies (0–2) are welcomed in calm baby groups that follow the Emmi Pikler approach: the focus is on discovering how something feels, smells or works, rather than on the end result. Each baby has a dedicated mentor who provides continuity and a secure attachment. Toddlers (2–4) join our pre-school education programme Startblokken. Every 6–8 weeks we introduce a new theme; all activities—from crafts to cooking—are linked to this theme or arise spontaneously from the children’s own interests. Our spacious, fully fenced garden invites children to run, climb and investigate nature. Indoors, creativity flourishes: we love to paint, build, sing and celebrate. Festivals such as carnival and Sinterklaas are marked with great enthusiasm, and once a year we host a spectacular party for parents and children. A friendly hairdresser also visits regularly at a special rate. Continuity and trust are central to our approach. Every child has a mentor who works on their group, and each group is always staffed by at least one familiar professional. A flexible team member—the “team flexer”—steps in when needed, ensuring that faces stay familiar and routines remain predictable. Days begin and end in our shared Simba group; afterwards children move to their own “home” group. On quiet days groups may join together, but never on a structural basis. In short, SKSG Baloe offers a safe, green oasis in the city where children can simply be themselves, supported by attentive educators and surrounded by creativity and joy.