3 Essential Skills Your Child Can Pick Up at Infant Care
Today, a dual-income household has become the norm in Singapore, as the nation continues to embrace a professional workforce. As such, infant care centres have grown in popularity, allowing parents to focus on their careers with greater peace of mind, knowing that their little ones are in a safe and nurturing environment while they are working. In 2023, the enrolment rate for infant and child care services in Singapore was 10,485 and 152,634 respectively. While enrolling their child in an infant care centre remains a great solution for busy parents, children can benefit from this as well. Let’s explore the three essential skills your child can pick up at an infant care centre in Singapore.
Social and Emotional Development
Through bonding and connecting with the teachers, children learn to form attachments, develop trust and regulate their emotions. The consistent presence of teachers provides a secure base for exploration, promoting a sense of security and confidence. Infant care centres also enable children to engage with each other, an opportunity that is rarely granted at home. Peer interaction differs from adult-child interactions due to distinct social dynamics, communication styles and developmental needs. These interactions are characterised by spontaneity and shared interests, motivating good habits such as sharing, taking turns and cooperating. With scheduled group activities and playtime, infants can observe, imitate and build rapport with their peers, further developing their social and emotional capabilities.
Infant care centres in Singapore emphasise a rich and stimulating environment that fosters curiosity and discovery. These specially designed spaces are equipped with age-appropriate toys and materials, allowing children to engage in sensory investigation, tactile experiences and visual stimulation. Trained teachers and caregivers are there to facilitate and support such explorations, encouraging infants to reach, grasp, manipulate objects and navigate their surroundings. Building up exploratory skills in infants is crucial as it stimulates neural connections and forms the foundation for their cognitive, physical and social development. Furthermore, this curiosity contributes to an interest in learning, problem-solving and critical thinking, which are all critical for academic success.
Motor Skills
In early childhood, the nervous system, muscles and joints are still maturing, leading to a temporary lack of precision and coordination. As children grow, they undergo various stages of motor skills development, and professional educators at infant care centres can accelerate this process. Through guided activities from reaching to crawling and eventually walking, the gradual progression of an infant’s motor abilities is carefully monitored and supported. Strategically introducing toys also engages infants in manipulative activities, which promotes hand-eye coordination and muscle control. Ultimately, fine-tuning a child’s motor skills and physical dexterity plays a pivotal role in empowering independence and self-confidence as children learn to navigate, explore and interact with the world around them.
As parents, it is only natural to want the best for your children to watch them grow into happy, healthy and compassionate individuals. Enrolling your little one into a quality infant care centre can be a great start to help shape their character and perspectives, unleashing their potential and moulding them into the best versions of themselves.
At Little Seeds Preschool, we are a faith-based preschool born out of a desire to honour each child’s original design and allow them to discover their identity and purpose in life. Our preschool curriculum is created to develop life skills and positive learning dispositions.
Enrolling a child in preschool is a significant milestone for many parents as they learn to entrust the care of their little one to someone else. The new environment also plays a vital role in shaping a child’s growth, underscoring the importance of choosing the right preschool. However, with the variety of preschools in Singapore, selecting the ideal one can be quite the challenge. Fret not, in this article, we share some primary factors to consider to help you make a more informed decision that is best for you and your child.
Curriculum and Learning Opportunities
At their tender age, preschool children naturally exhibit heightened curiosity and possess greater neuroplasticity. During this time, the information that they absorb throughout their learning journey is most impactful. This is where curriculum and learning opportunities come into play, laying the foundation for your little one’s education. A well-designed preschool curriculum tailored to early childhood development fosters essential skills such as language acquisition, social interaction, problem-solving and emotional regulation. Diverse learning experiences also enhance cognitive abilities and creativity, preparing children for future academic success.
At Little Seeds Preschool, we offer values-based education for lifelong learning Our preschool curriculum focuses on teaching children the values of life by nurturing their confidence in self-expression, encouraging creative and critical thinking skills, and cultivating a love for learning.
Dedicated and Caring Staff
Did you know that next to parents, teachers and childhood educators are adults with the most impression and impact on children? Preschool staff directly influence a child’s early learning, creating a nurturing environment where children feel safe, supported and encouraged to explore and learn. Furthermore, their expertise and dedication contribute to the implementation of a well-rounded preschool curriculum, adapting teaching methods to individual learning styles and facilitating positive relationships with both children and parents. Ultimately, the best educators possess the necessary expertise to identify and address developmental needs, ensuring that each child receives personalised attention.
Providing a positive, safe and secure space, Little Seeds Preschool educators celebrate children for who they are. While academic success is important, we respect each individual’s original design, allowing them to grow and flourish at their own pace.
Child Safety: Creating a Space Where Your Child Feels Secure
When choosing a preschool, safety is often one of the first things parents look for. Beyond physical measures, a truly safe environment is one where children feel comfortable, supported, and able to express themselves freely.
A well-designed preschool space helps children move with confidence. Clear layouts, child-friendly furniture, and supervised play areas allow children to explore while staying within safe boundaries. Daily routines are also structured in ways that provide consistency, helping children know what to expect and feel at ease throughout the day.
Equally important is the presence of attentive educators who guide children with care. Through warm interactions and gentle support, teachers help children feel secure enough to try new things, build relationships, and develop independence over time.
When children feel safe, they are more open to learning, forming friendships, and engaging meaningfully with their surroundings. This sense of security becomes the foundation for both their well-being and their early learning journey.
Location and Facility: Finding a Preschool That Fits Your Family’s Routine
Location plays an important role in making daily routines smoother for both parents and children. Choosing a centre near your home, workplace, or along your commute can ease drop-offs and pick-ups. For example, families considering a preschool may prioritise proximity for greater convenience during busy mornings.
The surrounding environment also matters. Preschools located within familiar neighbourhoods help children feel more at ease, supporting a sense of comfort and belonging. This is often a key consideration for parents comparing options across different areas, whether they are exploring a preschool closer to home, or family support elsewhere.
Little Seeds Preschool offers centres across Singapore’s North/Central, South, West, and East regions, giving families flexibility to choose what works best, whether you’re looking for a preschool in Bukit Panjang, a preschool in Kovan, or a preschool in Dover. This network also makes it easier for families who may relocate to other parts of Singapore but wish to keep their child in Little Seeds.
Alongside location, well-designed facilities create a safe and engaging space for children to learn and grow. When both come together, families can begin each day with greater ease and confidence.
As preschool marks the first step in a child’s education, parents naturally involve themselves in their little one’s learning adventure, spanning from essential logistics like the kindergarten or childcare fees to more personal details such as their child’s social interactions.
Choosing a preschool that not only collaborates with parents but actively seeks their involvement can help families feel more included. Parental engagement fosters a strong partnership between home and school, building a supportive atmosphere for children to learn. Parents who participate in their child’s preschool experience get to stay informed about their progress, reinforce learning at home and work with teachers to address any concerns or specific needs. Moreover, parental involvement promotes a sense of belonging and security for the child, enhancing their overall social and emotional well-being.
Little Seeds Preschool values community and we encourage open communication between staff, parents and children. Our Pastoral Care Team, together with the Chaplains, seek to empower a caring and supportive community around each child.
Choosing the right preschool benefits both children and parents, providing a stimulating environment conducive to the holistic growth of children and giving parents greater peace of mind.
With a desire to improve the quality of childhood education, Little Seeds Preschool prepares children for life so that they may become beacons that impact the community. To date, we have 18 faith-based preschools including childcare centres and kindergartens all across Singapore. Interested to find out more about our schools or preschool curriculum? Register here today!
Faith and Values
For some families, education goes beyond academics to include the values and beliefs that guide everyday life. Choosing a preschool that reflects and reinforces these same principles in its curriculum helps create continuity between home and school. When children experience consistent messages about values such as kindness, respect, and empathy, they are better able to understand expectations and develop a strong sense of identity and belonging.
At Little Seeds Preschool, we weave faith and values are woven into daily learning through routines, interactions, and meaningful experiences. Our educators model positive behaviours while guiding children to practise these values in simple, everyday moments. This approach supports not just how children learn, but who they are becoming, nurturing their character alongside their growth and development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for when choosing a preschool curriculum?
Parents often look for a balanced curriculum that supports both academic readiness and overall development. A play-based preschool in Singapore typically combines structured learning with hands-on experiences, helping children build confidence, curiosity, and essential skills in a natural way.
How do I know if a preschool’s curriculum suits my child?
It helps to observe how your child responds to the environment during visits. Look for programmes that allow children to learn at their own pace, with opportunities for exploration, interaction, and guided learning that match your child’s needs.
What is the difference between POP and private preschools?
A Partner Operator Preschool (POP) follows ECDA guidelines for affordability and quality, with capped fees and structured standards. Private preschools may offer additional programmes, facilities, or specialised learning experiences.
How important is play in a preschool curriculum?
Play is a key part of early learning. Through play, children develop problem-solving skills, communication, and social understanding while staying engaged and motivated to learn.
Should I prioritise academic or holistic development?
A well-rounded curriculum supports both. Strong early literacy and numeracy foundations are important, but so are social, emotional, and character development, which help children adapt and thrive in primary school.
How can I compare different preschool curricula effectively?
Visiting centres, asking about daily routines, and understanding teaching approaches can help. Comparing how each preschool balances structure and flexibility gives a clearer picture of what suits your child best.
3 Ways To Help Your Preschooler Develop A Love Of Reading
Today, the importance of encouraging reading especially at a young age cannot be understated. Early reading brings about a multitude of benefits, from language development and cognitive abilities to improving creativity and social skills. Children are exposed to a rich and diverse vocabulary, enhancing their communication both verbally and in writing. Furthermore, your little one can explore different worlds, characters and scenarios, nurturing them to think outside of the box.
As a trusted preschool in Singapore with a preschool curriculum that enhances the quality of early childhood education, we are here to share several ways you can help your preschooler develop a love of reading!
Start Early and Make Reading a Ritual
All children are unique in their own ways, and while some may take to reading immediately, others might require more time. That is why getting your little one in the habit of reading early is so important. It helps children who love reading build up that passion, and gives those who might not, some time to get used to the idea and eventually develop a liking for it. Early reading also allows children to maximise the cognitive and social advantages that can benefit them well into adulthood. You can encourage reading with your child as early as a year old, starting with picture books filled with bright colours to draw their attention.
Beyond starting early, it’s also important to make reading a habit. In designing our preschool curriculum, we understand that routines provide consistency and predictability for children, creating comfort and security. Moreover, when reading is associated with positive emotions and experiences, children come to expect and look forward to it. Regular exposure to language through reading also helps reinforce and expand your child’s vocabulary. The more consistent, the better their language development. Try reading them a story every night before bedtime as a start.
Explore a Variety of Books
Children have varied interests, and introducing a diverse book selection enables them to discover a range of genres, topics, and styles. Finding books that align with their interests increases engagement and enthusiasm for reading. Every book offers various experiences and perspectives as well, empowering children to view things from multiple angles and improve their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. When it comes to language skills, acquainting your little one with a broad set of vocabulary is key. As different authors possess their own style, tone and choice of words, reading a variety of books exposes children to new words and phrases they can learn.
Encourage Book Discussions and Book Clubs
Instilling a love of reading is no easy feat and simply reading with your child regularly may not be enough to sustain that passion. After a reading session with them, discuss the story with your preschooler. Ask them who their most-liked character was, their favourite part of the story, the lessons they learnt and what they thought about the story as a whole. This not only fosters critical thinking and immersion in the story even after it has ended, but it also enhances their communication and confidence when their opinions are voiced out loud. If you wish to build upon these attributes, our preschool curriculum is specially developed to empower them in these areas!
You can even take it a step further and host book clubs with other parents and their children too! Having the littles ones regularly share their thoughts about the books they read to a group of people minimises the fear of public speaking. Talking to children around their own age also makes things more relatable, fun and exciting for them. Both parents and children are introduced to new books as well, and it is an overall wonderful and stimulating activity for your child to anticipate.
Above are just some of the many ways you can inculcate a love of reading in your child. But most importantly, use this opportunity to strengthen your relationship with them. Reading together creates a positive bonding experience between parents or caregivers and children, serving as a platform for children to process their emotions and promote well-being.
At Little Seeds Preschool, we are a faith-based preschool, focusing on teaching children the values of life. Pair your child’s reading journey with us, where we will continue to nurture their confidence, self-expression, creativity and imagination.
