My 'Safe Haven' Approach
Meet Flo: Your Guide to Feeling at Home in Groningen
Hello! I'm Flo Kersten, founder of Safe Haven Dutch Coaching. I have a deep passion for helping expatriate children (Third Culture Kids, or TCKs) not just learn Dutch, but truly feel at home and flourish in their new life in Groningen.
Moving to a new country is a big adventure. For children, however, it can also bring unique challenges: making new friends, adapting to a different school system, and figuring out where they fit in while navigating multiple cultures. My mission is to provide a supportive, understanding space where your child can build both their language skills and their crucial sense of belonging.
Why I Understand the TCK Journey
You might wonder how I connect so deeply with this experience. I've walked a similar path. Having spent parts of my life abroad in places like Kinshasa, Bangkok, and Berlin, I experienced firsthand what it's like to navigate new environments and cultures. When I returned to the Netherlands, I even felt like a foreigner in my own country for a time.
These experiences didn't just teach me about different cultures; they taught me empathy. They showed me the importance of connection and the deep human need for what I call a "safe haven." I learned that home isn't just a place; it's a feeling of safety, identity, and acceptance. Grounding myself again taught me that building these foundations takes time and understanding – and that's where my coaching can make a real difference for your child.
The Safe Haven Approach: More Than Just Language
At Safe Haven Dutch Coaching, my approach revolves around interactive and experiential learning, often taking place in real-world settings right here in Groningen. I aim to be more than just a teacher; I act as a coach and mentor, guiding each child through:
- Playful Dutch Language Learning: I make learning Dutch fun and practical, using games, role-play, cultural activities (like baking Dutch cookies!), and even outings to local spots. The focus is on building confidence to speak and understand Dutch in everyday situations – at school, with friends, or in the neighborhood.
- Emotional Well-being & Identity Support: I provide a compassionate ear and use age-appropriate coaching techniques to help children process their feelings about relocation, express their unique multicultural identity, and build resilience. This isn't therapy, but a supportive space to navigate the emotional side of adjusting to a new life.
- Cultural Integration: I explore Dutch culture and school norms in a kid-friendly way, helping children understand their new environment and feel more comfortable and connected to the local community.
A Welcoming Space for Your Child
If your family is settling into Groningen and you're looking for support to help your child adapt, connect, and communicate with confidence, you're in the right place. Even if language learning has been a challenge in the past, know that patience, encouragement, and a gentle approach are at the heart of everything I do.
Every child deserves a space where they feel safe to learn, make mistakes, and grow. I'm excited to help your child build their own "safe haven" and truly thrive here in the Netherlands.
🛡️Safety & Professionalism
Your child’s well-being is my top priority. I hold a current VOG (Dutch certificate of good conduct) and Children’s First Aid certification. Open communication with parents is key, and all information shared is treated with the utmost care and confidentiality.
❓Frequently Asked Questions for Parents
Sessions blend playful Dutch learning with gentle emotional well-being support. I might play games, do creative activities, practice real-life conversations, or talk about settling into the Netherlands — all tailored to your child’s age and interests. The focus is on fun and building confidence.
I create a very supportive, no-pressure environment. I start at your child’s comfort level and celebrate small steps. Games, storytelling, and natural conversations help shy children gain confidence gradually.
I provide regular updates—from quick chats after a session to summary emails. You’re welcome to share your observations and questions any time.
I’m an educational coach and mentor, not a therapist. If I ever feel your child might benefit from specialized therapeutic support, we’ll discuss it privately and I can refer you to qualified professionals.
My focus is in-person lessons, either at your home or in my child-friendly office in Groningen. Occasional online check-ins are possible, but regular sessions work best face-to-face.
Your child’s safety is paramount. I hold a valid VOG and Children’s First Aid certificate, and any lesson space is child-proofed. Children are never left unsupervised.
I collect only the information necessary to provide effective coaching and support. It is stored securely, shared only with your explicit consent for essential purposes (like billing), and I am committed to protecting your family's privacy.
Life with kids can be unpredictable! Please give at least 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule. Package terms for cancellations are outlined in our agreement.
With over five years teaching Dutch to non-native speakers, I've honed skills in making language learning engaging. This is complemented by 4+ years caring for children, including a year leading activities for young ones in an international community group. I also hold a current VOG and Children’s First Aid certification, ensuring a safe and professional environment.
You can contact me directly for current rates and to schedule an initial consultation.
Yes, I offer a free intake and demo lesson. This allows us to meet, discuss your child's needs, and see if we’re a good fit before you commit to a package. Following this, I can provide a tailored plan, often within 48 hours.