Dam Parenting

Where to go, what to do with Samira from AmsterdamKids.comBeachesZandvoort aan ZeeBloemendaal aan ZeeCastricum aan Zee Texel IslandZeelandScheveningenAmusement ParksEfteling Oud ValkeveenDuinrell and Tiki PoolToverlandSprookjeswonderlandEasy Outdoor Escapes from AmsterdamHet Twiske*Always check water safety on Waterkwaliteit.net before swimming.Outdoor Pools - Flevoparkbad and MirandabadPierenbadjesSpecial Summer Events SAIL AmsterdamMuseum Summer Programs - grab your MuseumkaartDoolhof Corn MazeTravel HacksNS SpoordeelwinkelNS Kids free travel GVB Kids VrijOBA - LibraryBonus: Boeren Camping

In this heartfelt episode of Dam Parenting, host Eva shares her personal journey of her daughter's adenoid removal, tonsillectomy, and grommet surgery. From the raw vulnerability of handing your child over to doctors, to practical tips on preparation and recovery, this episode blends emotional honesty with useful advice for parents facing similar procedures.We’ll cover:How to prepare your child emotionally and practically for surgeryWhat to expect before, during, and after adenoid, tonsil, and grommet proceduresTips for making hospital day smoother (yes, pajamas matter!)Recovery essentials: ice pops, jelly, and comfort strategiesParenting vulnerability and what Brené Brown teaches us about courageIf you’re a parent navigating pediatric ENT/KNO surgery or just looking for reassurance in moments of parenting vulnerability, this episode is for you.Anna in het ziekenhuis — Liesbet SlegersKarel in het ziekenhuis — Liesbet SlegersKevin Goes to the Hospital — Liesbet Slegers (English)Anna in het ziekenhuis — Kathleen AmantNijntje in het ziekenhuis (Miffy at the Hospital) — Dick BrunaBobbi naar het ziekenhuis — Monica MaasDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — “Daniel Goes to the Hospital” (YouTube, ~26 minutes)Bluey — Bumpy and the Wise Old Wolfhound (Season 1, Episode 32)Pack comfy pajamas for your child (many hospitals expect it).Bring an extra sweater or scarf for yourself—waiting rooms can be cold.Stock up on recovery snacks: ice pops, jelly, clear juices. Let your child choose them in advance for a sense of control.Create a comfort kit: favourite toy, books, or shows lined up for recovery week.Use mantras or rituals to ground yourself during the wait. (“It’s routine. She’s safe. She’s brave.” helped me.)Don’t forget self-care: eat, hydrate, breathe. You can’t pour from an empty cup.Parenting through surgery is an exercise in vulnerability and courage. As Brené Brown reminds us, vulnerability isn’t weakness — it’s the birthplace of connection and love. If you found this episode helpful, please follow Dam Parenting on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube. Leave a review to help other parents find this resource.Subscribe so you don’t miss future parenting stories, tips, and expert conversations.

Looking for family-friendly Christmas activities in the Netherlands? In this episode, Samira from ⁠AmsterdamKids⁠ joins us to share a wide range of ideas for things to do with your family during the festive season. We talk about Christmas markets, light festivals, museum outings, winter events, kid-friendly activities, and cozy days out across the country.There’s so much happening this month that we couldn’t list everything in the episode — so if you want a full overview of December activities for families, visit our ⁠Instagram page⁠. You’ll find a curated carousel packed with inspiration to help you plan your festive calendar.Tune in to discover new ways to make the season special for you and your kids.

This week, Eva takes us through the whirlwind of November–December parenting in the Netherlands — the sugar, the traditions, the cultural juggling, and the pressure to buy all the things. But instead of adding more to our already stretched mental load, this episode invites us to shift toward something simpler, kinder, and far more meaningful: giving together.Eva shares how a Reverse Advent Calendar works — filling a box each day with small essentials for a family in need — and why it’s one of the most grounding, heart-opening activities to do with your kids this season. Plus: ways to get involved across the Netherlands, including: Serving the City Amsterdam, kerstzwolle.nl, the ADRA Christmas Box Campaign, and nationwide Kerstpakketjesactie drives.Got others you want mentioned? Reach out on Instagram to add others to share with our communtiy!If you’re craving a December with less pressure and more purpose, this is your gentle invitation.Take a breath. Gather your kids. Build a box. Make a difference.You’re not alone in this season — and neither are the families we choose to support.

Bringing home baby number two is a big moment — not just for you, but for the little one who’s about to become a big sibling. This highly requested episode dives into what parents can do to guide their first-born through the transition with warmth, confidence, and support.Child psychologist Faye from Kerr Psychology joins us to share practical ways to prepare your oldest, strengthen connection, ease tricky emotions, and set the stage for a loving sibling bond. If you’re growing your family and want to make this change feel safe, supported, and joyfully messy in all the right ways, this conversation is for you. Listen now to get the guidance you need for your “one to two kids” journey.

Living abroad often forces families to walk a fine line between independence and interdependence — between “I’ve got this” and “we’ve got this.”In this episode, host Eva sits down again with Angela from the Expat Parenting Collective to unpack how couples can find balance while raising families in a new country. Together, they explore:What independence and interdependence really mean for expat parentsHow to share responsibilities without resentment or burnoutWhy intentional communication matters more than everWays to blend home and host cultures for a grounded family rhythmPractical tools like weekly check-ins, shared calendars, and outsourcingWhether you’re parenting without a village, navigating new cultural norms, or trying to lighten the mental load — this conversation reminds you that you don’t have to do it all alone. Listen in for real strategies, honest reflections, and encouragement for every international parent building a home away from home.

What happens when two parents share one child… but not the same “why”?This week on Dam Parenting, we explore what really happens behind the scenes of raising a multilingual child when parents aren’t aligned on their motivations, values, or goals.Host Eva speak with Mimi from Growing up Multilingual who dives into what she’s learned after years of speaking with multilingual families — and why parental alignment isn’t a “nice-to-have”, but the foundation of any successful family language plan.Because no strategy will ever stick if the people shaping the child’s world are pulling in different directions.In this episode, you’ll learn:* Why many couples overlook the importance of discussing their language goals early on* How silent misalignment can quietly erode even the best intentions* The 5 key questions every couple should ask before starting their bilingual or multilingual journey* How your own language beliefs, identity, and childhood shape the way you raise your child* What happens when “heritage language” becomes emotional territoryIf you’ve ever wondered why your partner isn’t as invested in your child’s language learning—or why your family’s plan feels harder than it should—this episode will help you start the right conversations.Because raising a multilingual child isn’t just about the child.It starts with you, the parents — your “whys”, your alignment, and your shared understanding.Listen now and discover how to make your family language plan a truly shared journey. And be sure to check out the Instagram carousel providing you with more questions to consider in your journey. Our thanks as always to Mimi from Growing up Multilingual

Halloween is just around the corner — and the Netherlands is getting spook-tacular! This week, Samira from Amsterdam Kids joins us to share her top picks for family-friendly Halloween fun — from pumpkin patches to science parties and everything in between. Whether your kids are tiny pumpkins or full-on thrill seekers, we’ve got something for everyone:Robbeburg — little-kid-approved Halloween crafts and costume funPumpkin picking — the perfect autumn photo op (and pie excuse)Speeltuin Amstelpark — cozy autumn playtime with a spooky twistNoordOogst — family farm vibes, treats, and community Halloween spiritGroteschijn — magical light festival nightsWalibi & Heksendoorn — for the brave (and slightly older!) ghoulsScience Camp Halloween Party — experiments that glow, fizz, and go boo! Cultural Trick-or-Treat events — creative costumes, candy, and community funSo whether you’re planning your first pumpkin adventure or mapping out a family fright night, tune in for ideas that make this Halloween magical for both young and old. Stay till the end — there’s a special giveaway for the Science Camp Halloween Party!

Join us as we spotlight Healthy Here’s upcoming event on November 1st in Amstelveen — a free community gathering designed to help internationals connect directly with the Dutch health system. No huisarts (GP) referral needed for this one!This event is all about breaking barriers — meeting trusted Dutch health professionals face to face, asking questions in plain English, and finding the support you need to navigate healthcare in the Netherlands with confidence. Whether you’re new here or have been around for years, Healthy Here is creating a space for connection, clarity, and community wellbeing.Tune in to learn more about what to expect, who’s involved, and how this event is shining a light on another incredible member of our growing international community.Free to attend. Open to everyone. Because better health starts with being seen, heard, and understood.Health Fair Amstelveen 2025

In this episode, host Eva and Angela from the Expat Parenting Collective dive into what it really takes to build strong relationships as international couples and expat families.They talk openly about the challenges of love, communication, and parenting abroad, and why no relationship is ever easy — especially when you’re juggling cultural differences, distance from family, and life in a new country.This episode is a reality check for expat partners and global parents, reminding us that relationships are partnerships — not just with our spouses, but with our children too. With honesty and warmth, Eva and Angela share how to stay connected, communicate better, and create a sense of home wherever you are. Listen to learn:How to strengthen relationships while living abroadCommunication tips for expat couples and international familiesThis topic came about from Angela's post earlier in August you can find hereYou can access The Expat Parenting Collective free ebook on how to support yourself as part of an expat/immigrant couple living far from your core suport network here

This episode marks our very first collaboration — and it’s all about family science fun in Amsterdam! Dam Parenting is teaming up with The Science Camp, who have just launched their brand-new science learning space in Amsterdam West, (⁠Kinkerstraat 70⁠). Together, we dive into how hands-on science activities inspire kids, spark creativity, and bring families together.To celebrate the opening of The Science Camp’s new location, we’re giving away special family passes and prizes — perfect for parents looking for exciting things to do with kids in Amsterdam.PRIZES UP FOR GRABSThe Toddler Lab - Wednesdays 0930 - 1030The Science Weekend (October 4th) 2 sessions 10:00 - 11:15 (ages 4-6) Crazy Chemistry:Learn about chemical reactions with colorful and explosive experiments.13:00 - 14:15 (ages 7-10)Astronomy Adventures14:15 - 15:30 (ages 7-10) Journey through space and learn about stars, planets, and the universe.1 day ticket to the Science Camp in the Herfst VakantieLocation: Henrick de Keijserplein 45From 9:00 - 15:00Age: 5 - 10 yearsPrice: €70 per day ( available Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday/Friday) Follow them on Instagram

Happy International Podcast Day! In this special episode, Eva takes a moment to reflect on the podcast’s journey—150+ episodes, 20k+ downloads—and the international family community it has helped build in the Netherlands. From sharing stories and expert insights to destigmatising topics like mental health, matrescence, and birth choices, this podcast is a growing village. Listeners are invited to celebrate, connect, and help shape what comes next.

It takes a village to raise a child — but what about the village that supports you before, during, and after birth? In this episode, host Eva sits down with Maria from @MamaMariacoach , the organiser of the BBABBY Fair — a first-of-its-kind support fair for parents and parents-to-be.Unlike traditional baby fairs filled with products and prams, the BBABBY Fair brings together over 60 professionals, each offering the kind of wisdom, guidance, and support they once wished they had. From pregnancy to postpartum, birth partners to nutrition, this is where you’ll meet your community face-to-face.You’ll also hear familiar voices from the podcast, including Dr. Naomi Gibson, Toni from The Little Birth Company sharing her NICU story, Claudia from Ludica Support Network, and Amélie on nutrition before and during pregnancy — all part of this incredible village.Whether you’re planning to start a family, are already pregnant, or navigating life with little ones, the BBABBY Fair is your chance to learn, connect, and find the support you deserve.Join us as we explore the story behind BBABBY, why this event matters so deeply, and how it’s reshaping the way we think about community in parenting.Get your ticket here

This week, host Eva takes us inside Robbeburg—a family-founded community center in Amsterdam Zuid that has welcomed parents and little ones for 50 years. Volunteer Kelli joins to share how this special space continues to thrive, why it matters for families in a growing city, and how you can support Robbeburg’s future.Grab your raffle ticket here!See what you can win from the raffle! Amsterdam Parent Project: One Burnout Support Program sponsorship (worth €40)Beauty by Iresh: One Full Brow Treatment (worth € 38,95) and one Lashlift (worth €75)Bij Allerlei: Two €20 gift cardsBruna: One €25 gift cardDe Beestenboel: One cat gift boxDr Naomi Gibson: One set of Stick Together Conversation CardsEat Love Thrive Wellness: One free 45-min 1:1 certified nutritional coaching session (worth €349)Expat Parenting Collective: One 1-hour coaching or breath work sessionFoundree: One 60-min Clarity Coaching session (worth €150)Grammes: One voucher (worth €20)Hotel Okura: Breakfast for 2 at Serre RestaurantHouse of Craftivities: One private pot painting workshop for a group of 4 (worth €180)Joanne Lozman Sleep Consulting: One 30-min sleep advice/coaching callKaas van Tim: Two €20 gift cardsLemon Conceptstore: One €25 gift cardMamapreneur Collective: One free Connect tier membership for one quarter (worth €117)MamaSocial: One MamaSocial brunch ticketMaster Dutch: One 45-min Dutch lesson with language influencer Kees WolfsMinku: Ethnically sourced bracelets (made from coconut and silver beads) and a shirtMokum Mobile Vet: Free veterinary house call consultation for a catNail Fizz: One €70 gift cardRobbeburg: One Robbeburg party (worth €200)Sāaru: One gift certificate (worth €200) and a discount codeSlagerij ten Wolde: Two €20 gift cardsThe Science Camp: Two vouchers for all day science campst - ART: Two free trial sessions (worth €45 each)Tout: 12 macaronsWira Wellness: Two massages (worth €85)Vermaz Delicatessen and Wine: One bottle of wineZipster: One €50 gift cardRobbeburg is the only community centre created by and for our international community located in Amsterdam Zuid.

In this episode of Dam Parenting, host Eva sits down with Ellen and her doula, Ilena Standring, to share a powerful and personal birth story about giving birth in the Netherlands. From pregnancy preparations to the first signs of labour, through to the moment of birth and postpartum reflections, Ellen’s journey highlights both the challenges and the joys of welcoming a baby in a new country.For many international parents, the Dutch approach to birth—whether in a hospital, a birthing centre, or even a home birth—can feel unfamiliar. Ellen’s story offers a real, honest look at navigating the Dutch maternity system, supported by her doula, Ilena. Together, they reflect on the courage it takes to share a birth story and the healing power of storytelling in building community. In this episode:Ellen’s experience preparing for birth in the Netherlands as an international parentWhat labour and delivery looked like with doula supportInsights into the Dutch maternity care system and expectations around home birthHow sharing birth stories can reduce isolation, build confidence, and create connectionDam Parenting is the English-speaking parenting podcast in the Netherlands, exploring real parenting stories and experiences that bring our community closer together. Whether you’re pregnant, planning your birth, or curious about what giving birth in the Netherlands is really like, this episode will leave you feeling informed, connected, and supported.Thank you to Ellen for reaching out and sharing your story with our community.

How do family dynamics shape your child’s multilingual journey? In this episode of Dam Parenting, Eva sits down with Mimi from Growing Multilingual to explore what it really takes to raise kids with more than one language — with clarity, consistency, and care.We dive into:Why your personal “why” matters in multilingual parentingHow to align with your partner (or ex-partner) on language goalsStrategies for solo parents and co-parents navigating life after divorceCreating emotional safety and identity for multilingual childrenBuilding a sustainable, intentional family language planWhether you’re raising bilingual, trilingual, or multilingual kids, this conversation will help you reflect, reset, and root your parenting choices in purpose.Perfect for parents wondering:* Which languages should we prioritise as a family?* What if my partner doesn’t fully buy in?* How can I support my child’s identity as a single parent?Tune in for real talk, practical tips, and encouragement to find peace (not pressure) in your multilingual parenting journey.

In this episode, host Eva welcomes back guest Mimi to reflect on a powerful everyday moment: sitting down to colour with her daughter. What started as a simple playtime activity unexpectedly opened the door for her daughter to begin speaking more Bulgarian than ever before—naturally, spontaneously, and without prompts or corrections.Through this story, Eva and Mimi explore the deeper truth that language development isn’t just about more exposure—it’s about more connection. Children speak the languages that feel safe, meaningful, and emotionally engaging. And play, as Mimi describes, creates that ideal environment.Together, they discuss:Why play is the “native language of childhood” and a natural gateway to speechHow following your child’s lead invites authentic language useWhy connection before correction fosters confidence and trustHow play creates rich opportunities for repetition and practice without pressureWhy this matters especially for multilingual children and familiesYou’ll also hear practical tips, like a play-connection checklist for parents who want to nurture language growth at home—without turning play into a lesson.This episode is a reminder that small, everyday interactions can unlock big breakthroughs. When we show up in our children’s world with curiosity and presence, language follows.

Today is a little different.No guests, no interviews and no expert insights.Just a note from me to you.

Let’s get some free therapy — with a child psychology twist!In this episode, resident child psychologist Faye from Kerr Psychology answers two real questions from two real moms in our community. Question 1: How do we support young children who express big emotions physically — like hitting, pushing, or lashing out? Question 2: What can we do about the daily morning chaos — those time management battles that leave everyone stressed?Whether you're dealing with toddler tantrums, emotional outbursts, or the school-run stress, this episode is for you.Real parenting struggles. Expert guidance. Honest conversation.You're not alone — and your question might just help another parent too.Got a question for Faye? Send it in and be part of the conversation.

If your child understands the home language but rarely speaks it, you're not alone—and you're definitely not failing. In this episode, we move beyond the common advice of “just add more exposure” and explore what really drives language use in bilingual kids: motivation and connection.We dive into the emotional and psychological layers that shape your child’s willingness to speak, backed by research from Döpke and others. From the importance of emotionally attuned interactions to practical ways to create low-pressure, meaningful moments for language use, this episode is a must-listen for parents raising bilingual children. Because sometimes, it’s not about more input—it’s about deeper connection.What the Research Tells Us (feat. Döpke and more)Research by Döpke (1986) found that children are more likely to actively use their home language when parents follow a more child-centered form of interaction. This aligns with what we know from Piaget’s model: in the early years (pre-operational stage), children are naturally egocentric - they see the world from their own perspective and have a hard time understanding things from someone else’s point of view. So it’s no surprise that they respond best when communication revolves around their interests, ideas and experiences, rather than adult priorities.And newer studies back it up:It happens very often that a child might prefer one home language over the other, but as a matter of fact - a child’s environment shapes language use. If one language is used more often, in more emotionally engaging contexts, that’s the one they’ll likely prefer.Just hearing a language isn’t enough. Kids need a reason to speak it. Otherwise, they stay passive - understanding but not using.