The Lettergarden

Strengths

• Pedagogical policy is well implemented in practice
• Childcare professionals guide children in a calm, friendly manner
• Relaxed atmosphere at the location
• Sufficient qualified staff with appropriate diplomas and first aid certificates
• Correct staff-child ratio and designated back-up staff on call
• Good domestic violence and child abuse reporting protocol
• Adequate parent information and complaints procedure available

Shortcomings

• Operator must submit correct and complete documents directly upon inspection, rather than incorrect or incomplete paperwork
• CO2 meter must be placed in the correct location (away from ventilation openings), not next to the window
• Evacuation route must be formally documented and kept clear (small bookcase obstructs passage)
• Safe sleeping protocol: consider removing the playpen as a designated sleeping place

Violations

• Safety and health policy was insufficiently concrete: measures for key risks were missing or lacked deadlines, indoor environment measures were not tailored to the location (bedroom without direct exterior window was omitted from the description), food safety policy was incomplete (Monday thawing procedure missing, temperature stated as 70°C instead of 75°C)

Summary

Daycare center (kinderdagverblijf/KDV) The Lettergarden in Almere, part of Kinderopvang Kiekeboe B.V., received an unannounced visit on 2 March 2026 for its annual inspection. The location provides care for a maximum of 12 children aged 0 to 4 years. The overall assessment is that the location complies with all assessed requirements following a recovery offer. There is a relaxed atmosphere and the childcare professionals guide the children in a calm, friendly manner. The pedagogical policy is well implemented in practice. One violation was identified: the safety and health policy was insufficiently concrete, particularly regarding measures for the indoor environment, food safety, and ventilation. The operator resolved this within the recovery period offered (until 30 March 2026). The Municipal Health Service (GGD) advises the municipality not to apply enforcement action.