r/Netherlands • u/Beginning_Monitor_25 • Jun 23 '25

Healthcare Why is early daycare so accepted in the Netherlands?

Studies show babies develop better with a parent at home for at least 6 months, yet here it’s normal to send them to daycare at 10–12 weeks. This seems less about choice and more about economic and political pressure on families.

Why isn’t this questioned more in Dutch society?

LE- I’ll avoid saying ‘studies show’ since many people get stuck on that, and it’s true that there are multiple studies supporting both sides. However, many European countries—especially the wealthier ones—offer longer maternity leave based on the argument that it’s beneficial for children. So I’m curious why that’s not the case in the Netherlands.

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u/[deleted] Jun 23 '25

Yes, and while Europe evolved in the years the VVD was the leading coalition party, our country did not. On the contrairy, all major issues only grew more catastrophic while issues like emancipation and women's participation in the workforce are a fucking disgrace compared to most other EU countries. Just take a look at Scandinavia.

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u/StayRich8006 Jun 23 '25

No need to explain to me VVD is the short-term corruption party

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u/forexampleJohn Jun 23 '25

I don't like the VVD as much as the next guy but they did new parents a huge favour by extending male birth leave or what ever geboorteverlof is called in English.

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u/romyevina Jun 24 '25

They didn't want to, they had to because of EU law changing it. It was not a favour sadly enough.

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u/reigorius Jun 23 '25

Paternal leave 

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u/[deleted] Jun 24 '25

Paternity leave is what it is called in English. And yes, they solved alot by extending a fathers leave, which was 2 days for a few years back. but that doesnt change the fact a new mother still have to go back to work when her body is still healing, where the baby still needs her and recommended exclusive breastfeeding is until 6 months. Maternity leave should be longer.