From Stroopwafel to Patat: Dutch Food Words Kids Will Love
Food is a fun and familiar way to introduce kids to a new language. Dutch cuisine offers playful, easy-to-pronounce words that kids enjoy saying—and even tasting! From snacks to meals, these words help bring Dutch learning to the dinner table.
Why Food Words Work for Language Learning
Food is something kids already love and recognize. Learning food words in Dutch:
- Builds practical vocabulary for daily life
- Encourages sensory learning (taste, smell, sight)
- Makes conversations more engaging and real
Tasty Dutch Words to Learn First
- Stroopwafel – Syrup waffle
- Patat – Fries (also called frieten)
- Pannenkoek – Pancake
- Appeltaart – Apple pie
- Drop – Licorice (a Dutch classic!)
- Kaasje – Little cheese
- Melk / Water / Sap – Milk / Water / Juice
Encourage your child to name what they eat in Dutch. Even asking “Wil je patat?” (Do you want fries?) brings the words to life.
Delicious Learning Activities
“Dutch Food Flashcards”
Create flashcards with images and Dutch names of foods. Use real snacks when possible—learning is more fun when it’s tasty!
“Mini Dutch Café” Game
Set up a pretend restaurant. Kids can take orders in Dutch and serve dishes like stroopwafel or pannenkoek to family or toys. Add menus labeled in Dutch for extra learning.
Tasty Language Learning with Dinolingo
The Dinolingo platform makes learning food words simple through songs, visuals, and repetition. With its Dutch for kids course, children ages 2–14 enjoy games, stories, and audio tools that help reinforce daily vocabulary—especially during meals or snack time.
Final Thoughts
Dutch food words are a delicious way to start speaking. When language is tied to taste and fun, kids will eat it right up!
Source: