How to choose the right Dutch language lessons for your child

As an expat parent in the Netherlands, you want your child to feel happy, confident and able to express themselves in the language of their new country. Even if your child attends an international school, learning Dutch is incredibly valuable.

But how do you choose the right language lessons or support for your child? There are several factors to consider to ensure your child receives the best possible guidance. Here are the top things to think about:

1. Goals: What do you want to achieve?

Before looking for a language school or tutor, clarifying your goals is important. Do you want your child to speak Dutch fluently so they can make friends in the neighbourhood? Or is it more about grasping the basics so they can handle everyday situations? Perhaps you want to prepare your child for a possible transition to the regular Dutch education system. Clear goals will help you find a programme that fits your child’s needs.

2. Private or group lessons

One of the first decisions to make is whether to choose private or group lessons. Both have their benefits:

• Private lessons: These offer personalised learning. The teacher focuses entirely on your child’s strengths and weaknesses. This is ideal for children who want to progress quickly or face specific challenges, such as dyslexia or a language delay.
• Group lessons: These encourage social interaction. Children learn with and from each other, boosting their confidence. This is particularly useful if your child already has some basic Dutch skills and wants to develop them further in a fun, interactive setting.

3. Tailored learning versus fixed methods

Some language schools use fixed teaching methods, while others focus on personalised education. Tailored learning means the teacher adapts to your child’s pace, interests, and language level. This can be especially effective if your child struggles with certain aspects of Dutch or has specific learning goals. On the other hand, structured methods can work well for children who thrive on routine and clearly defined learning objectives.

4. The teacher’s background and experience

A teacher’s qualifications matter. Do they have experience teaching multilingual children? Are they familiar with the specific challenges that expat kids face, such as balancing multiple languages or coping with sudden language switches? A good teacher understands not just the language but also the unique situation of your child.

5. Flexibility and online options

Expats often deal with busy schedules, travel, and unexpected changes. It might be useful to choose a school or tutor that offers online lessons. This provides flexibility - your child can continue learning Dutch even if your family is temporarily outside the Netherlands.

6. Motivation and fun

Language learning happens faster when it’s enjoyable. Ask the school or tutor how they keep children motivated. Do they use playful methods, like games, songs or stories for younger kids? Or do they work with current themes that match the interests of older children? A positive learning experience is key to success.

7. Communication with parents

Lastly, open communication with you as a parent is crucial. How does the school or tutor update you on your child’s progress? Are you involved in the learning process and given tools to support your child at home? Transparency and collaboration help maximise learning outcomes.

Make an informed choice

Choosing the right language support for your child involves more than just finding the nearest language school. As a language teacher working with multilingual children, I’ve seen first-hand how crucial it is to align lessons with a child’s unique situation, goals and personality.

By carefully considering what your child needs, be that tailored support, interactive group lessons or flexible online options, you can make an informed choice. Remember, enjoying the process is essential for language development. With the right support, your child won’t just learn Dutch, but also build confidence and feel more at home in the Netherlands.