How to Choose the Best Preschool in Singapore for Your Toddler
- Amber Wong
- Feb 11
- 3 min read
Choosing the right preschool for your toddler is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. In Singapore, where education is highly valued, the options can be overwhelming. How do you find a preschool that aligns with your child’s needs and your family’s values? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the best choice for your toddler’s early years development and learning.
1. Understand Your Priorities
Before you start your search, identify what matters most to you. Are you looking for a preschool with a strong academic focus, a play-based curriculum, or a bilingual environment? Bilingual environments also vary, with different languages ranging from Mandarin to German and Russian as additional languages of instruction. Some preschools are fully immersive, meaning that they conduct the entire session in Mandarin, for example. Knowing your priorities will help you narrow down your options.
2. Research Preschool Philosophies
Different preschools in Singapore follow various educational philosophies, such as Montessori, Reggio Emilia, or Waldorf. Research these approaches to see which one resonates with your parenting style and your child’s personality. For example, Montessori schools emphasize independence, while Reggio Emilia focuses on creativity and collaboration.
3. Visit the Preschools
Once you’ve shortlisted a few preschools, schedule visits to observe the environment and interact with the teachers. While most schools do not allow you to sit in for the lesson but only allow you to pop in and out, this is still a good way to assess if it's a right fit for you and your child. Pay attention to the cleanliness, safety measures, and how the staff engages with the children. Tour the facilities and look at the typical schedule to get a feel of how your child will be spending his/her time. A good preschool should feel welcoming and nurturing.
4. Check Accreditation and Reviews
Ensure the preschool is accredited by the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) in Singapore. Additionally, read online reviews and ask for recommendations from other parents. Hearing from other parents can provide valuable insights into the preschool’s reputation. Check the preschool's page on MyFamily to see what other parents are saying.
5. Consider Location, Programmes, and Fees
Convenience and affordability are practical factors to consider. Choose a preschool that is easily accessible from your home or workplace since it is going to be a daily commute. A shorter commute is also less taxing for the little ones. Being nearby also means that it is easier to pick up your child early if you ever have to. Preschools offer a range of different programmes from full-day programmes to half-day programmes that last just 3 - 4 hours. Some others offer after-school care or enrichment classes that allow your child to be taken care of if you have to be away for more of the day. Fees are another important consideration. Check if the preschool offers any subsidies or financial assistance programs.
6. Observe Your Child’s Reaction
Finally, involve your toddler in the decision-making process. Observe how they react during the preschool visit. Do they seem comfortable and excited? It's not always easy to tell as very young children of about 2+ years old who are just looking to enter Pre-Nursery (i.e. turning age 3 in the next year) might not always be able to provide clear feedback. Nonetheless, a positive response from your child is a good indicator that they’ll thrive in that environment.
Choosing the best preschool in Singapore for your toddler requires careful consideration and research. By following these steps, you can find a preschool that supports your child’s early years development and sets them up for a lifetime of learning. Remember, the right preschool will not only nurture your child’s growth but also give you peace of mind as a parent.
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