Childcare

In Flanders, generally, even if there are children, both parents work. Working parents can place their child in childcare during the day. You can opt for either a public or private childcare solution. There are also childminders available who look after other people’s children in their own home. All childcare initiatives are monitored by the government organisation Kind & Gezin. 

There is not enough childcare available to accommodate the demand. Therefore, it’s best to start looking well ahead of time. If you are not in time, you will be placed on a waiting list and must wait until a spot opens up. When a spot does become available, it goes to the person at the top of the list. Then to the second, then the third, etc.
The cost of childcare will depend on your income. Private care and childminders can be expensive, but the waiting lists tend to be shorter. Childcare in a nursery is tax-deductible. 

An overview of childcare options to fit your needs:www.kindengezin.be/toepassingen/zoekopvang.jsp
 

Baby and toddler groups

Baby and toddler groups are places for parents with babies and toddlers to meet on a weekly basis. Parents exchange tips and ideas, chat about anything under the sun and have a cup of coffee while their offspring discover the toys and each other. Parents who speak little or no Dutch yet are also welcome. A hostess welcomes new participants and helps non-Dutch-speaking parents with their Dutch. The baby and toddler group organises activities regularly: baby massage, toddler gymnastics, an introduction to music or a first aid course.