We think it is important that children:
There are four groups: two baby groups and two toddler groups. Each baby group has three permanent pedagogical professionals. The baby groups accommodate up to twelve children per day, ranging in age from 8 weeks to 2 years. The toddler groups each have two permanent pedagogical professionals and accommodate a maximum of sixteen children aged 2 to 4 years. With this group structure, we offer the youngest children the calm environment appropriate for their developmental stage, while the toddlers have ample space for play and (motor) activities. Each group has a permanent team of pedagogical professionals who serve as the primary point of contact for parents.
At De Kattekop, a “Hall Group” is organized daily, during which an additional early childhood educator works with a small group of up to 6 toddlers (from the toddler groups) to provide more in-depth learning and specific activities tailored to three-year-olds. These activities are specifically designed for toddlers aged 3 and older and focus on preparing them for elementary school.
We provide a familiar and safe environment. For a child to develop well, they must feel safe and welcome. Our pedagogical professionals ensure this through their interactions during care, activities, and free play—all day long. This allows children to develop to their full potential.
Older toddlers love to wander from one thing to another and enjoy moving around a lot. They need new challenges, and the group is set up to accommodate this; a child can play in a doll corner and a building corner. In the adjacent playroom, there is space for creative and motor skills activities.
In the toddler group, children are challenged by a varied and ever-changing selection of toys and play areas that encourage exploration, physical activity, and independent play. The group room is richly and flexibly furnished with materials that stimulate the senses and foster social, emotional, motor, creative, language, and cognitive development.
Pedagogical professionals are attentive to each child’s talents and needs and, with a sensitive and appreciative approach, ensure that children feel seen, heard, and safe. Through a consistent daily structure, familiar routines, and clear boundaries, children experience a sense of calm and trust. At the same time, they are given the space to make their own choices, develop independence, and discover their autonomy.
Each age group has its own rhythm. A baby does not yet sleep or eat at set times. We stick to the child’s home routine as much as possible. As the children get older, their rhythm becomes more regular, and they are increasingly able to follow the group’s daily routine.
A set daily schedule for toddlers and preschoolers provides a sense of security and familiarity. And that’s essential for a child’s continued development.
We offer various extra activities to stimulate a child’s development. These include toddler gym, yoga, dance classes, and music and nature workshops.
Reading aloud is one of the key priorities of our policy. Reading aloud is important for language development and creates a warm atmosphere and a sense of togetherness. We often read aloud to both the baby group and the toddler group, with the focus on the joy of reading. De Kattekop always has an extensive program for National Reading Aloud Days and Children’s Book Week.
The children go outside every day, even in the fall and winter, unless the weather prevents it. They enjoy running, biking, playing with sand and water, and experiencing the wind and rain. De Kattekop has two beautiful, spacious natural outdoor areas, directly adjacent to the group rooms. The baby groups have their own enclosed, spacious patio. The toddler groups have a large, adventurous, and green garden.
At 11:30 a.m., we serve a hot lunch for children ages 1 and up. The meals comply with the guidelines of the Netherlands Nutrition Center and HACCP standards and are low in sugar and salt.
We offer a varied weekly menu: meat (no pork), fish, or vegetarian options. We accommodate special dietary needs, and a sandwich meal is also available.
At de Kattekop, every child has their own mentor. Generally, this is the early childhood educator who spends the most time with the child. We use the online program “Peuterplusplan” for both the infant and toddler groups. The mentor tracks the child’s development and well-being and discusses these topics during the annual parent's meeting.
De Kattekop has a pedagogical coach. The coach supports the individual staff members in how they do their work.
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