Childhood melanoma is a rare disorder which is often associated with a diagnostic delay. Worldwide, the incidence of cutaneous melanoma is rising in both adults and children. We describe three cases of childhood melanoma in the Netherlands which illustrate different aetiological aspects of the disease. The epidemiology of childhood melanoma in the Netherlands is discussed. In reviewing the literature, we wish to draw attention to important clinical aspects which may contribute to the early recognition of melanoma in children.