De Mus (“sparrow” in dutch) is a small scale kindergarten or playgroup (“peuterspeelzaal” in Dutch) with similarities to both preschool and daycare. We are located in Amsterdam Oost in the Van Musschenbroekstraat, close to Weesperplein and Oosterpark. De Mus has space for up to 10 children aged 2-4 that enroll two to five mornings a week. Our qualified professionals and volunteers offer loving care for the children.
A unique kindergarten that prepares kids for primary school
At De Mus we encourage children to play with their peers in a colorful and safe environment. De Mus differentiates by its personal attention. Because our kids are free to make their own choices, they can be themselves. At De Mus, we build confidence, independence, responsibility and teaches them to collaborate better with others, while preparing them for primary school (“basisschool” in dutch; ages 4 and above). Unlike in preschools (“voorschool” in dutch), our kids are not forced to follow the rules and regulations typically found in those. A difference with typical daycare (“kinderopvang” or “kinderdagverblijf” in dutch) is that De Mus is only open in the morning (08:15 to 13:30).
A unique space in Amsterdam Oost
We have a nice indoor space and a large sheltered playground with lots of greenery, a sandbox, swings, a slide and many types of go-karts, scooters and bicycles. Although the language spoken at De Mus is dutch, we typically have many children (and parents!) from non-dutch speaking or multi-lingual backgrounds.
A unique organization run by parents
Another feature that makes De Mus so unique is that we are managed by a non-profit foundation (“stichting” in dutch). It is led by the parents themselves, aided by an active constituency of volunteers. Parents can help out according to their talents or interests: gardening, fixing things, organizing our yearly Summer and Sinterklaas parties, or serving as a boardmember. This is also an excellent way to get to know each other, making De Mus a warm, close-knit community.
Costs, information and enrollment
The costs for this type of childcare are set by the government and are currently € 10,14 per hour. Depending on your personal situation, a childcare rebate may be obtained from the government.
Some pictures of the school can be found here. The above links Algemeen, Werkwijze and Beleid give for more detailed information about the school, its activities and policies. We will be more than happy to provide you with a summary in english if you like.
To schedule a viewing or ask any questions you may have about De Mus or possible enrollment, please contact us! There are still several spots available.
