Playgroups

Playing and discovering together
Children are curious and are always looking for new experiences. Our basic principle is that children will develop on their own. We are there to guide and stimulate them. In a safe and enjoyable environment where they will meet many of their peers.

Experience things together
Singing or dancing. Arts and crafts or dressing up. Playing outside, getting mucky in the sand pit or reading a book with the teacher: At an SKH playgroup you’ll always have fun! It is a place where it is safe and enjoyable but also challenging: together with other toddlers you will discover lots more.

Always in your area
There is always a playgroup near you! Children who are two or three can come and play two mornings a week. They will always be under professional supervision and in their own group.

Quality
All our playgroups must meet high quality criteria with regard to personnel, hygiene or safety. You can read our pedagogic policy and complaint arrangement at the location or on our website. You can also ask for copies from the Centraal Bureau. Each location has a parents’ committee so that parents can contribute when important decisions are taken.

Playing and learning
Playing at the playgroup is above all fun for children. But it is also the place where they learn a lot. We play games to encourage movement and creativity. There are also lots of other children so children learn to play together, how to resolve arguments, to help each other and to comfort each other. The teachers are well-trained and encourage the development of children in a playful manner. Language is very important within this context.

A typical morning at the playgroup
Children need recognition and something to hold on to. That is why the playgroup mornings have a fixed routine. This may be different at each location but will in any case consist of the following:

· On arrival both children and parents are welcomed by the teacher. Toddlers will often play a game or read a book with their mum or dad. After that they say goodbye.
· In a circle we read out loud, we sing or we talk about a certain topic.
· The toddlers can get something to drink and eat their fruit during break time.
· We always make time to play inside or outside freely.
· We do a creative activity such as: playing with clay, painting, cutting or gluing. The arts and crafts we make often have a special topic such as:, ‘animal day’ or ‘spring’.

Party time!
We pay a lot of attention to special days such as St. Nicholas Day, Christmas and Easter every year. Activities are organised around these events. The children’s birthdays are, of course, celebrated with the entire group. The birthday boy or girl can pick out a hat and parents and grandparents are welcome too!

Settling in
It is, of course, very exciting to go to the playgroup at the beginning. During the first visit to the playgroup we discuss the settling in period. This settling in period can be different for each child and will be determined together with you. Your toddler can gradually get used to the teacher and saying goodbye to mum or dad. The times on which you will bring or pick up your child can then differ from the usual times. We also recommend staying at the beginning during (part of) the morning.

Their own group
A playgroup consists of 15 children and their permanent certified teacher. She will ensure that the environment is enjoyable for the whole group. This will make children feel at ease. Student teacher often come to help out and we also work as much as possible with the same volunteers. This way the children get extra attention.