Have you moved to the Netherlands, or have you been living here for several years? Then you may be thinking about supplementary education for your child. Often, Dutch school alone is not enough. Children also need a place where they can speak their mother tongue and develop broadly, with attention to concentration, thinking skills, and self-confidence.

There are many options: tutoring, clubs, Russian Saturday schools, online platforms, and educational centers. How do you make the right choice?

Here are 7 important questions to ask in advance.

1.What language are the lessons taught in, and why does it matter?

For a child growing up bilingual, the language of instruction is also the language in which they learn to think. If you want your child to maintain Russian, check whether the lessons are actually taught entirely in Russian.

2.What skills does the program develop?

Agood program:
• Develops concentration and memory.
• Stimulates logical and algorithmic thinking.
• Prepares children for the Dutch education system.
• Teaches through research and discovery rather than rote memorization.

Feel free to ask: “What will my child be able to do after three months?”

3. Who teaches the classes, and what experience do the teachers have?
A diploma is important, but practical experience with children is at least as important.

Pay attention to:
• Experience working with children.
• Collaboration within a teaching team.
• Professional development of teachers.

4.Is it practical and easy to reach?

Eventhe best school becomes less attractive if the travel time is too long.

Check:
• Lesson days and times.
• Parking options.
• Online and offline lesson formats.
• Flexibility when changes are needed.

5.Are there proven results?

Look at:
• The number of years the school has been operating.
• The number of children who have completed the program.
• Parent reviews.
• Examples of measurable progress.

Daily walks not only improve well-being but also help children interact more with the world around them, explore new places, and discover things they have never experienced before.

6.How does the school communicate with parents?

Ideally:
• The school provides regular updates.
• Communication is possible via WhatsApp or Telegram.
• Communication in Russian is possible.
• There is a dedicated contact person available.

Every evening, take a few minutes to talk with your child about the day and what they achieved.

This not only strengthens your relationship but also helps children organize and better understand the information they experienced during the day.


7.Is a trial lesson available?

Agood school usually offers:
• A trial lesson.
• An open lesson.
• An introductory day.
• A no-obligation consultation.

Why is this important?
• The child needs to feel comfortable.
• Parents can assess the atmosphere and teaching approach.
• A trial lesson reduces stress for both parents and children.


Checklistfor parents:

□ Are the lessons taught entirely in Russian?
□ Does the program develop specific skills?
□ Do the teachers have experience working with children?
□ Are the location and schedule suitable for your family?
□ Can the school demonstrate results?
□ Is there active communication with parents?
□ Is a trial lesson available without any obligation?