Childcare in the Netherlands falls under the Childcare Act, which regulates the quality and funding of childcare. Nannies are legally equated with childminders.
The law sets clear standards for the quality of childcare. Childcare locations must provide a safe and healthy environment for children. Childcare centres and agencies are also required to inform parents about their policies. The childcare centre, the agency, and the nanny are jointly responsible for the quality of care.
The municipality, in collaboration with the GGD, oversees inspections of childcare locations. Inspectors identify any shortcomings and advise the municipality on registration in the National Childcare Register. Registration in this register is necessary for parents to be eligible for childcare allowance. Nannies and childminders working at home are registered by Kinderopvang Thuis in the LRK.
Because Kroost Nannies is a registered childminder agency, parents are entitled to childcare allowance for care provided by their nanny. Childcare allowance is a financial contribution from the government to reduce childcare costs. Parents can apply for the allowance via the Tax Authorities and receive part of the childcare costs back, depending on their income and the number of hours their child is cared for.
Want to learn more about the Childcare Act? Click here.
