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Entree Zonnestraaltje
Blog 21 August 2025

“For our youngest, it really felt like coming home” – Leon about the Zonnestraaltje Toddler Playgroup

Leon was looking for a place where his daughter Isolde could learn through play and get used to the school routine. They chose the independent toddler playgroup Zonnestraaltje in Hilversum.

From Doubt to Trust

Leon: “My wife attended the Waldorf school and was looking for anthroposophical childcare. I’m a bit more down-to-earth and had my doubts. But when we visited, it immediately felt right—calm, spacious, and a warm atmosphere. Very different from the other childcare places we had seen.”

Their choice for the toddler playgroup came from their desire for social contact and structure. “Our daughter was used to being with a childminder—my mother—with few other children around. That’s why we wanted her to get used to being in a group as well.”

Structure and Rhythm Work Wonders

What stands out to Leon is how clear and familiar the daily routine is. “At Zonnestraaltje, every morning Kabouter Pim is woken up. That ritual is predictable and gives the children a sense of security. The rhythm of the seasons and annual celebrations also plays a beautiful role. The children really anticipate them, with stories, songs, and table games that go along with each event.”

Leon
Frida, our youngest daughter, had been going along in the car seat since she was a baby when we dropped off her brother Sylvester. When she was finally old enough to attend the toddler playgroup herself, it immediately felt familiar. She walked right in and started playing. For her, it really felt like coming home.

A Place Where You Feel Seen

Leon talks about how wonderful the contact with the educational staff is. “At Zonnestraaltje, it’s not just: drop off your child and go. You’re welcomed and it’s easy to have a chat. Geri and Mirjam are so dedicated. They know exactly what a child needs, comfort or space. The children visibly relax.”

Dera
Dera

Involved Parents, Close-Knit Group

Parent involvement is high, Leon explains. “In the mornings, you often linger a bit and get to know each other. There are parent evenings, craft activities, and seasonal celebrations. Yes, more parent involvement is expected than at a regular toddler playgroup, but it also creates a sense of connection with the playgroup and other parents. And when you make something for your child yourself, you can’t help but feel a little proud.”

Unsure? Just come and see for yourself!

Not just enroll, but really experience it. You don’t need a Waldorf school background, I don’t have that either. But I immediately felt: this is right. This is a good place.

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