De Kwieke Kievit

De Kwieke Kievit is a small-scale daycare centre located in a characteristic farmhouse at Goorweg 41 in Winterswijk-Meddo. Since 4 August 2010 we have been providing care for children from 10 weeks to 4 years in a homely and safe environment. What makes us unique is that the front part of a working dairy farm has been converted into a daycare centre, so children experience real farm life every day. We have room for 36 children, divided into three horizontal groups: a baby group (10 weeks – 18 months), a toddler group (13 months – 2.5 years) and a pre-school group (2.5 – 4 years). The baby and pre-school groups are located in the front house and can see each other, which builds confidence during transitions. The toddler group is housed in the rear. Our pedagogical vision rests on four pillars: respect, space, individuality and positivity. We believe every child should be able to develop at his or her own pace. Therefore we offer quiet corners as well as challenging areas, both indoors and outdoors. Every day we go outside: playing in the large, naturally designed garden with sand, water, tree trunks and tractor tyres; visiting the calves and cows; helping in the vegetable garden or romping in the hay. Inside you will find reading corners, a block area, craft and creative spaces. We sing together, read aloud and make music. A fixed daily rhythm gives the children structure: at 9.30 a.m. fruit and a drink, then outdoor play; around 12.00 p.m. a bread meal with fresh air and hungry tummies; afterwards those who need it take a nap. Children who stay awake choose quiet play or go outside again. At the end of the afternoon we share a biscuit and wait for mum or dad. Parents keep in touch with the staff through a notebook about how the day went. We are open every weekday from 7.30 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. (from 7.00 a.m. by arrangement). We are closed during the middle week of the summer holidays and the week between Christmas and New Year. Feel free to drop by for a tour and experience for yourself the homely atmosphere and space that De Kwieke Kievit has to offer.