Lifelong Learning Special
KINDERGARDEN ZUIDAS:
A WARM HOME AWAY FROM HOME FOR EXPAT CHILDREN Surrounded by the imposing architecture of Zuidas, Kindergarden is an oasis of
example in the horizontal grouping of
calm, with walls painted in soft shades, wood furniture and a spacious garden.
children so they’re with peers their own
Above all, it’s a cosy, safe space for children. And that’s precisely what this childcare
age. That’s a key part of Kindergarden’s
centre wants to project. “We want to be a home away from home for kids and their
method, Bieshaar says. “Since children of
parents – a safe haven for the many expat children who come here”, explains centre
the same age are at the same stage and
manager Suzanne Bieshaar.
experiencing same kinds of developments, they can learn from each other. It also gives
Scandinavian system
Kindergarden: the organization where
Twelve years ago, Bieshaar got to
she hoped to work one day and for which
experience the Scandinavian childcare
she now runs an internationally-oriented
Learning through discovery
system firsthand while studying and
location. With its exceptional quality,
Led by a team of pedagogical staff, coaches
working in childcare pedagogy in Iceland.
unique pedagogical policy and thoughtful
and experts, Kindergarden offers child day
She became specialized in their unique
layout, Kindergarden is designed on the
care for a range of age groups, from babies
approach, which she saw mirrored at
Scandinavian model. This is reflected for
to toddlers. Every group follows its own daily
40
them a sense of calm and stability.”