Autumn is approaching, and Autumn break 2025 is the perfect opportunity for families in the Netherlands to combine relaxation, fun, and Dutch learning. For expat kids, holidays can sometimes mean a pause in Dutch exposure, which may slow down language development. However, with the right activities and resources, your child can enjoy the break while continuing to improve their Dutch skills in an engaging and natural way.

At The Dutch Minds, we understand the importance of maintaining Dutch language development even during school holidays. Here are some creative ideas for making Autumn break 2025 both fun and educational for your children.

1. Explore Dutch Through Interactive Talking Pictures and Songs

Interactive talking pictures are a fantastic tool for younger children just starting with Dutch. For example, images of autumn scenes like pumpkins, falling leaves, or forest animals can be used to introduce vocabulary. Children can click on objects, hear the words pronounced, and even practice simple sentences.

In addition, songs are a playful way to reinforce Dutch vocabulary. There are many autumn-themed songs about rain, acorns, mushrooms, and wind. Singing along helps children remember new words and makes learning feel like playtime. Combining songs with visual aids ensures that even toddlers can grasp new concepts effortlessly.

Tip from The Dutch Minds: Pair reading a Dutch picture book with a hands-on activity, such as cooking pumpkin soup. Discuss ingredients, actions, and colors in Dutch to make the experience immersive.

2. Reading Dutch Books Online

Reading is one of the most effective ways to maintain Dutch comprehension skills during holidays. Even if your child is just beginning to read, online platforms provide read-aloud picture books, youth novels, and comics with animations.

Books like The Leaf Thief (De Blaadjes Dief) or classics such as Rupsje Nooit Genoeg are perfect for autumn. Platforms like Booxalive.nl offer engaging storytelling experiences that make language learning enjoyable. For teens, there are youth novels and exciting stories to maintain reading fluency while introducing richer vocabulary.

Reading together not only strengthens language skills but also creates quality family time in Dutch.

3. Educational Dutch Videos for Children

Videos are an excellent way to combine learning and entertainment. Dutch educational content is available for all age groups:

• SchoolTV: Offers age-specific videos across various subjects.
• Klokhuis: Ideal for older children, exploring fun facts and cultural topics.
• Jeugdjournaal: Informative news for kids in simple Dutch.
• Juf Roos’ videos: Linguistically enriching and fun.
• The Sandcastle: Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, especially for seasonal topics like autumn.

Watching these videos encourages listening comprehension, improves vocabulary, and introduces children to Dutch culture in a lively and engaging way.

4. Fun with Dutch Songs and Games

Songs and interactive games can turn learning into a playful adventure. Autumn-themed songs like Herfst wat heb je te koop? by Dirk Scheele are catchy and help children memorize new words naturally.

Games like letter bingo or word treasure hunts around the house are fun ways to reinforce spelling, vocabulary, and sentence structure. These activities are ideal for indoor or outdoor play during Autumn break 2025.

5. Learning with Educational Apps

For tech-savvy kids, educational apps are an excellent addition to holiday routines. There are apps suitable for different ages that focus on reading, writing, and speaking Dutch:

• Woordwijs: Sprekende Letterdoos + Spellingtesten: Helps children form words and practice dictation.
• Taal leren met Emma: Ideal for ages 2–7 to learn basic Dutch vocabulary.
• Letterschool: Toddlers and preschoolers learn to read and write letters.
• Juf Jannie Apps: Teach vocabulary about animals, the sea, and seasons.
• HeyBC & Leestrein: Focus on beginner reading skills and interactive stories.

These apps ensure continuous exposure to Dutch, even if your child is away from formal lessons.

6. Join Online Dutch Language Classes

Another effective way to keep children engaged during Autumn break 2025 is through Online Dutch Language Classes. These classes provide structured learning in a fun and interactive environment. At The Dutch Minds, our online sessions allow children to practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing Dutch.

Classes are designed for expat kids of all levels and incorporate games, stories, songs, and discussions. This ensures that learning continues naturally even during the holidays. Parents can also observe their child’s progress and participate in engaging activities together.

Whether your child is just starting a Dutch language course or looking to maintain their skills, online classes are a flexible and convenient solution for busy families.

7. Make the Most of Autumn Break 2025

Autumn break is not just a time to relax; it’s an opportunity to combine play and Dutch learning. Simple daily habits, such as reading a story in Dutch, singing songs, or playing educational games, can significantly impact language retention.

Whether at home, traveling, or enjoying the beautiful Dutch autumn outdoors, consistent exposure to Dutch will help your child build confidence and fluency. With the guidance of The Dutch Minds, your child can continue learning in a fun, engaging, and stress-free way.

This Autumn break 2025, make every moment count, learn, play, and explore Dutch together!

Conclusion

Balancing fun and learning during Autumn break 2025 is essential for expat children learning Dutch. From interactive pictures, books, and videos to apps, games, and online classes, there are countless ways to keep your child engaged.

By incorporating these activities into the holiday routine, children can strengthen their Dutch skills naturally, making the learning process enjoyable and effective.

Discover more about Online Dutch Language Classes and how a Dutch language course with The Dutch Minds can help your child maintain and improve their Dutch fluency.