As a parent, deciding when your child should begin their preschool journey is an important milestone. According to the Ministry of Education Singapore guidelines, starting preschool at the right age significantly shapes a child’s early learning experiences and social development. Preschools in Singapore typically cater to children from 18 months to 6 years, with different stages that correspond with the child’s age and developmental progress:
| Playgroup / Pre-Nursery | 18 months – 2.5 years old |
| Nursery | 2.5 – 4 years old |
| Kindergarten | 5 – 6 years old |
Some schools even offer infant care for children as young as 2 months. Each stage provides children with age-appropriate activities that foster future learning. When determining the best time for your child to start preschool, here are some factors to consider:
Your Child’s Age
Age is one of the first considerations when deciding when to enrol your child in preschool and may differ from family to family, depending on individual factors and considerations. In Singapore, parents typically send their children to preschool between 18 months and 3 years, as a majority of children can communicate independently and begin to benefit from the social aspects of preschool. These early years are also a crucial period when their brains are highly receptive to absorbing new information, acquiring skills, and developing essential behaviours.
Developmental Readiness
Consider your child’s ability to adapt to new environments, follow routines, and interact with peers. For example, if your child shows curiosity about group activities, can follow simple instructions, or expresses interest in playing with others, they may be ready for preschool. If they have older siblings in preschool, they may feel more motivated to join, observing and learning from their example.
Social and Emotional Maturity
Preschool helps children build essential social skills, such as sharing, waiting their turn, and working together. For instance, if your child enjoys playing with others at a playground or shows an interest in group games, they might be ready to thrive in a preschool setting. However, if they experience separation anxiety, consider a gradual transition with shorter programs to help them adjust.
Language and Communication Skills:
A child who can communicate their needs, even in simple words or gestures, is more likely to benefit from a preschool environment. For example, being able to ask for water or express excitement about activities indicates readiness to engage with peers and teachers. Early exposure to a bilingual curriculum can further enhance language development, preparing them for Singapore’s language-rich environment.
Family Schedule and Needs:
For working parents, preschools offering full-day programmes provide a safe and nurturing environment during work hours. If your family has a flexible schedule, a half-day programme might be a better fit, allowing your child to gradually ease into the preschool routine. Balancing your family’s daily schedule with your child’s needs is key to ensuring a smooth transition.
Conclusion: Preparing Your Child for Preschool
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question, “What age should my child attend preschool?” The ideal time depends on your child’s readiness and your family’s needs. The best thing you can do for your child is to ease them into the idea of being away from you and interacting with peers before enrolling them in a preschool. Parents can gradually prepare their children by arranging more playdates, participating in group activities, or enrolling them in short reading or enrichment classes designed for preschoolers. These experiences allow children to socialize and build confidence in a structured setting.
Choosing the right preschool involves considering factors such as the environment, curriculum, teachers, and how well the school meets your child’s needs. Visiting different preschools in your area can help you find the best fit. At Raffles Kidz, our preschool programmes are thoughtfully designed to kickstart your child’s preschool journey seamlessly, be it starting from playgroup, nursery, or kindergarten. Our comprehensive curriculum, experienced teachers, and fun learning spaces ensure a safe and nurturing environment that helps build a solid academic foundation in our children. Book a school tour or join us at our Open House today to see it for yourself!
