Play, discover and grow naturally
We are Espira Childcare
Why childcare with a Scandinavian vision? Because it revolves around outdoor play, healthy living and trusting children to discover things for themselves – principles that contribute to resilience, enjoyment and growth.
We offer childcare (0 to 12 years) at an increasing number of locations in the Netherlands.
Play, discover and grow naturally
We are Espira Childcare
At Espira, we bring the Scandinavian vision of society and childcare to life with a focus on being outdoors, healthy living and personal growth. Children thrive when they are given the freedom to move, explore and find their second home outdoors. We encourage their curiosity and growth towards independence and resilience. Through play, healthy nutrition, exercise and experiencing nature, children develop into well-balanced, self-reliant global citizens. This way, a generation grows up that treats itself, others and our planet with care and respect. In this way, we give every child the best start in a natural and stimulating environment.
Our promise to children
We promise children a safe, loving place where they can be themselves and discover the world at their own pace. Every day, they are given the space to play outside, have fun together and grow in self-awareness and responsibility with confidence. Together with the people around them, they learn to treat each other and the world with care. What children experience at a young age stays with them for life: discover today, make the world a better place tomorrow.
We continuously invest in knowledge, quality and a rich play and learning environment, so that children grow up physically, mentally and socially strong. We work closely with parents, schools and other stakeholders. Our pedagogical approach is based on experience, research and the confidence to try.
Our mission
We offer children (aged 0 to 12) an environment full of new adventures in the fresh air and a solid foundation for their development. We are a reliable, committed partner for parents. For employees, we create a working environment in which attention, professionalism
Natural childcare
Espira brings childcare with a Scandinavian vision to the Netherlands. This approach revolves around play, fun and being outdoors in nature. It focuses on healthy living, sustainability and trusting children to discover things for themselves – principles that form the basis for happy, resilient and curious children.
That is why we offer sustainable childcare (0 to 12 years) at an increasing number of locations in the Netherlands. Every day, we see how children flourish in a natural, safe and stimulating environment: socially stronger, healthier and with more self-confidence. This allows parents to go to work with peace of mind, while their children gain new experiences and grow through play every day.
This makes Espira unique
Why choose Espira?
What makes Espira unique? Our Scandinavian approach is based on four core values: nature (nature as a second home), development (every child at their own pace), connection (with yourself, each other and the world) and innovation (we continue to learn and improve). These values are reflected in everything we do – from our spaces and nutrition to the way we interact with children, parents and colleagues.
Our childcare is based on our Scandinavian background. We work from:
- A healthy foundation – healthy nutrition, exercise and relaxation
- Plenty of space for nature and being outdoors – nature as a second home
- Learning through play, indoors and outdoors – discovering what makes children curious
- Focus on resilience and self-confidence – growing up in a way that suits children
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This makes Espira unique
What makes Espira unique? Our Scandinavian approach is based on four core values: nature (nature as a second home), development (every child at their own pace), connection (with yourself, each other and the world) and innovation (we continue to learn and improve). These values are reflected in everything we do – from our spaces and nutrition to the way we interact with children, parents and colleagues. We have translated them into five distinctive characteristics that you will see every day in our childcare centres.
Healthy foundation
Healthy living starts at Espira. With our childcare, we lay the foundation for a healthy lifestyle that children will benefit from throughout their lives. With fresh meals and snacks, plenty of exercise, relaxation and attention to mental well-being, we ensure that children feel energetic and happy. The natural design of our play areas makes exercise fun and natural. This creates a living and playing environment in which children feel safe and can be themselves.
Growing up resilient
Resilience is the ability to go with the flow of life. At Espira, children are allowed to be themselves, make mistakes and learn from them. We create an atmosphere of trust in which trial and error is part of the learning process. Our educational professionals provide a safe foundation, but also allow children to experience that setbacks can be overcome. By taking on small challenges, children develop inner strength and emotional balance. This allows them to grow up with confidence and become resilient individuals.
Learning through play – indoors and outdoors
The best learning moments occur when children are playing carefree. Our educational professionals stimulate their curiosity and create an environment full of adventures and discoveries – from mud kitchens to construction projects, from reading aloud to nature expeditions. In this way, children grow unnoticed in language, thinking, social skills and creativity. There, they learn with all their senses about the seasons, the weather and their own possibilities.
Self-confidence and responsibility
We believe in the power of trust. Step by step, we give children more freedom to make their own choices and take responsibility – for themselves, each other and their environment. In a close-knit group, they discover their talents, learn to work together and show consideration for others. With freedom and good guidance, they grow into independent individuals who know what they want and feel connected to their environment.
Meaningful and energetic work
Espira's strength lies in the people who work there. Our educational professionals work in a healthy, inspiring environment that energises them. Being outdoors is a given, as is room for personal input and development. We invest in training, teamwork and reflection. Employees have time and attention for every child and every parent – you can see that in the warm cooperation and the quality of our childcare.
Want to know more?
Would you like to learn more about our childcare services?
Would you like to know more about how we put our vision and mission into practice?
Read more on the practical matters page about our policy and how we work together with parents.
Or visit one of our locations for a tour and a personal conversation.