A proposal has been put forward to set a minimum age of 18 for people driving heavy cargo bikes or after-school care (BSO) minibuses. This was reported by the Nationale Onderwijsgids. The proposal specifically targets vehicles used to transport children in the childcare sector, such as electric cargo bikes with multiple seats and minibuses that take children from school to after-school care (BSO).
Background to the proposal
Heavy electric cargo bikes have grown increasingly popular in childcare settings in recent years. Many daycare centers (kinderdagverblijf/KDV) and after-school care locations use these bikes to transport children in a safe and sustainable way. At the same time, these vehicles are considerably heavier and more complex to handle than a regular bicycle — especially when fully loaded with several children.
The proposal to introduce a minimum age of 18 ties in with broader concerns about road safety in the transport of young children. Under this proposal, younger staff members — such as interns or trainee childcare workers — would no longer be permitted to operate such vehicles independently.
What does this mean for childcare providers?
For childcare organizations, this proposal could have practical implications. Interns and staff members under the age of 18 who are currently sometimes involved in transporting children would no longer be allowed to do so independently if the measure is introduced. This would require adjustments to staffing schedules and the division of responsibilities within childcare locations.
- Cargo bikes: Heavy electric cargo bikes with multiple child seats are covered by the proposal.
- After-school care buses: Minibuses that transport children from school to after-school care are also included in the proposal.
- Interns: Younger interns or staff members under 18 would no longer be permitted to act as drivers if the rule comes into effect.
What does this mean for parents?
For parents, the safety of their child during transport is a key concern. A minimum age requirement for drivers of heavy cargo bikes and after-school care minibuses could provide greater reassurance about who is behind the wheel. It is worth asking your childcare provider how they organize the transport of children and what requirements they set for cargo bike and minibus drivers.
The proposal still needs to be further developed and reviewed before it can potentially be introduced. Parents and childcare organizations are advised to follow developments around this proposal through official channels and sector organizations such as the Brancheorganisatie Kinderopvang.