What To Look for When Choosing a Preschool for Your Child
What To Look for When Choosing a Preschool for Your Child
Investing in your child’s education is one of the greatest gifts you can give them. The early years are critical as they set the stage for a lifetime of learning and growth. Selecting the right preschool can be daunting, but with our help, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your child’s unique needs and preferences.Ā
We understand that choosing a preschool can be overwhelming. Should you opt for a larger or smaller environment? What kind of setting would best suit your child? Don’t worry, we’re here to guide you. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a preschool for your child in Singapore.
1. Programme and Curriculum
You should be familiar with the preschool’s philosophy, curriculum, and programmes to determine if it meets your specific requirements and your child’s unique needs. Feel free to ask any questions, whether in person or over the phone, to gain a comprehensive understanding. Preschools can adopt various early childhood teaching methodologies, such as the Montessori, Reggio Emilia, or Waldorf approaches. These methods may prioritise different learning methods for your child.
As parents, it’s important to fully understand these distinctions and select a preschool that works best with your preferences and your child’s learning style.Ā
2. Reputation and Accreditation
When looking for a preschool for your child, it’s important to seek out those with a good reputation within the community. You can do this by engaging with fellow parents, exploring online forums, and considering word-of-mouth recommendations. It’s also essential to ensure the government officially recognises the schools you’re considering. Look for preschools with SPARK accreditation, which indicate that the institution has undergone a thorough evaluation. This accreditation, established by the Ministry of Education, aims to elevate the quality of preschool education across Singapore.
3. Teachers
Allocate time in your schedule to attend open houses or schedule school tours. Use this opportunity to acquaint yourself with the teachers. You can conduct online research about them or engage in face-to-face conversations.Ā
It’s important to ensure that the teachers possess not only adequate qualifications and a robust educational background but also exhibit positivity and a caring demeanour towards the children. Explore their willingness to communicate regularly with parents regarding their child’s progress. It is also worth observing the teachers’ interactions with children to gain insights into their teaching approach and ability to build strong relationships. Remember, children thrive and develop best under the guidance of caring and well-trained educators.
4.Teacher-to-Child Ratio
As per the guidelines set by the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) in Singapore, it is advised to maintain a low student-to-teacher ratio. This ensures that every child receives personalised attention and facilitates an environment conducive to optimal learning and development.
5. Facilities and Safety
In Singapore, preschools are held to high safety standards mandated by the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA). These standards require preschools to provide comprehensive supervision, implement effective behaviour management techniques, and furnish their facilities with age-appropriate equipment and materials. By adhering to these guidelines, preschools can create a safe and nurturing environment for young children to learn and grow.
6. Review the Provided Meals
It is important to carefully consider the food options provided by your child’s school for meals and snacks. If your child has any allergies or specific dietary requirements, enquiring if the school can accommodate them is essential. This will ensure that your child’s well-being is considered during meal times.
7. Locations
It is important to take into consideration the location of the preschool you choose for your child. As you will need to take them to and from school daily, it is advisable to opt for one conveniently situated near your home or workplace. If the preschool is located too far away, it may result in unnecessary fatigue for your child due to the long commute.
8. Cost and Fees
Preschool fees are determined by several factors, such as the size of the school, the type of programmes offered, the location, and the reputation within the community. The preschool directly manages administrative policies related to enrollment, withdrawal, and fees. To access this information, refer to the preschool’s handbook for parents or their enrollment forms, specifically in the Terms and Conditions section.
In conclusion, selecting the right preschool is a huge step in your child’s educational journey. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can ensure a nurturing and enriching environment for your child.
Mulberry Learning, with 18 centres located across Singapore, is an award-winning preschool brand, regularly voted as āBest Holistic Learningā and āBest Early Learning Programmeā in Singapore. It is the first and only preschool network in the world to be certified by the USA for Habits of Mind (a framework for intelligent thinking habits). Designed to nurture the Future Ready Child, its iLearn/iExplore/iExperience/iDevelop curriculum model enables holistic development of young children, by integrating well-known global pedagogies like Reggio-Emilia, Multiple Intelligences and Habits of Mind. Our preschool teachers are nurturing, qualified, and well-trained with over 250 hours of in-house training under our i-Inspire Teacher Growth Model.
We are proudly affiliated with Global EduHub, a rapidly expanding education network comprising 10 brands and over 70 schools, covering infant care, childcare, preschool, student care, and enrichment programmes. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us.Ā
Mulberry Learning prides itself on making the preschool experience both memorable and enjoyable while transforming a child into a competent explorer, an imaginative thinker, and a creative problem solver. Through our proprietary award-winning curriculum, unique Habits of Mind programme and dedicated staff who are passionate about imparting positive attitudes, Mulberry Learning holds strong in its promise to deliver a holistic education that nurtures the Future Ready Child.
A PREMIUM PRESCHOOL BRAND UNDER GLOBAL EDUHUB