As parents, we want the best for our children. That includes giving them a head start by enrolling them in a reputable preschool. However, choosing the ideal preschool in Singapore is no mean feat, especially considering the number of options available.
Here is the good news – regardless of your priorities, there is undoubtedly a preschool out there that fits your parenting style and needs to a T. To help you streamline the selection process, check out our 2025 guide to the best preschools and kindergartens in Singapore. You can’t go wrong no matter your ultimate choice!
1. Little Seeds Preschool
As its name suggests, Little Seeds Preschool view children like little seeds to be nurtured, allowing them to blossom on a journey of growth and discovery, thereby becoming valuable contributors to society. This is achieved by cultivating a nurturing and supportive environment where every child feels valued and encouraged to grow and develop into the best version of themselves.
As a preschool focusing on Christian values-based education, the emphasis is on offering an education grounded in Christian values, instilling its values of community, excellence, faith, integrity, and unity in all children. That may appeal to practitioners of Christianity.
However, that does not encompass the entirety of the school’s pedagogy. In fact, the preschool was born out of a desire to honour each child’s original design and to help them discover their identity and purpose in life. This is achieved through a high-quality values-based curriculum that draws from renowned approaches like Key to Learning and Reggio Emilia.
Combined with a focus on bilingual learning and an in-house education programme dedicated to values and social-emotional development, the aim is to prepare children for life by nurturing them to be creative, confident, and self-expressive learners with a life-long love for learning.
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| Address: | Multiple locations including Ang Mo Kio and Yishun |
| Website: | https://littleseeds.edu.sg/ |
2. Brighton Montessori
Do you prefer a Montessori education for your child? In that case, Brighton Montessori should definitely be on your list. The school prides itself on being one of Singapore’s best Montessori preschools, with an individualised learning approach that encourages children to learn at their own pace.
At Brighton Montessori, the environment is also a crucial component of learning. Its various learning spaces and facilities across Singapore are thoughtfully designed to encourage discovery and exploration for all levels. That is augmented by a curriculum that marries learning and play, emphasising learning through hands-on activities conducted in fun and creative ways.
Most importantly, with one of the best teacher-child ratios amongst preschools in Singapore, you can rest assured that your child receives the personalised guidance they need to thrive and grow into capable learners.
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| Address: | Multiple locations including Harbourfront and River Valley |
| Website: | https://www.brightonmontessori.com.sg/ |
3. Odyssey The Global Preschool
With an award-winning curriculum and a fully-equipped Reggio Emilia-inspired campus, Odyssey The Global Preschool is one of the best preschools to enrol your child in. Alongside a best-in-class pedagogy and a team of passionate teachers, the school’s low teacher-child ratio ensures every child receives individualised attention and an excellent early education experience.
In fact, Odyssey is a popular choice among parents who want their children to pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme in their later school years, as the preschool combines the Reggio Emilia philosophy with the IB approach to foster an environment where children get to direct their own learning, fostering innovation and exploratory learning.
As part of the Reggio philosophy, which regards the environment as the third “teacher” (after the educators and parents), Odyssey boasts state-of-the-art facilities across its various campuses, with learning environments carefully crafted to integrate outdoor experiences to shape children’s values, perspectives, and understanding of the world they live in.
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| Address: | Multiple locations including Orchard and Dempsey |
| Contact: | https://theodyssey.sg/ |
4. EtonHouse International School And Preschool
EtonHouse is a leader in the education field, boasting more than 25,000 students in over 100 schools across 9 countries. In addition, its inquiry-based learning has revolutionised Singapore’s Early Years approach since 1995.
Thanks to its rich teacher-student ratio and boutique nature, EtonHouse is able to provide children with a personalised bilingual education inspired by the renowned Reggio Emilia approach. In fact, EtonHouse is the only school in Singapore partnering directly with Reggio Emilia and is part of the Reggio Children International Network.
Select EtonHouse preschools also offer the rigorous EtonHouse Zhonghua Full Mandarin Immersion Programme, a bilingual programme highly recognised in the industry that fully immerses children in a full Mandarin environment throughout the day.
Beyond language, the school emphasises the integration of outdoor education into its curriculum, in line with the Reggio philosophy of the environment as the third “teacher”. That is evident in its three nature-themed preschools – Garden School by the Bay, Nature Pre-School, and EtonHouse International School Sentosa – where learning progresses seamlessly between indoor and outdoor spaces.
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| Address: | Multiple locations including Gardens by the Bay, Mountbatten, and Sentosa |
| Website: | https://www.etonhouse.edu.sg/ |
5. My First Skool
My First Skool is one of the best preschools for parents seeking to nurture confident, curious, and well-rounded learners. Not only is the school well-regarded among parents in Singapore, evident by its Parent Satisfaction Survey score of 93% and the preschool winning the Top Pre-school Brand in 2023 Influential Brands’ Award. It also sets itself apart due to the cornerstone of its methodology, which places significant emphasis on developing positive relationships between children, teachers, and parents.
Complementing this is a curriculum that takes learning beyond the classrooms, stimulating children’s minds and encouraging them to keep exploring. Part of the aim of this approach is to develop each child’s social and communication skills, instil vital values, such as respect and empathy, and connect them to the global world.
With that said, adequate time and attention are also devoted to preparing children for primary school on an academic and socio-emotional well-being level. From early exposure to numeracy to understanding how to resolve conflicts amicably among themselves, children develop into knowledgeable, socially adept, resilient, and caring individuals ready to face the challenges of Primary School and beyond.
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| Address: | Multiple locations including Sengkang, Punggol, and Serangoon |
| Website: | https://www.myfirstskool.com/ |
How To Choose The Best Preschool And Kindergarten For Your Child?
Even with the various options listed in front of you, narrowing down your choice to just one can be a challenge. Fret not! Let us streamline your selection process by sharing the crucial factors to consider. We hope what we shared can help you identify the most suitable and best preschool for your child.
1. Curriculum and Learning Approach
The curriculum and learning approach of a preschool are fundamental factors to consider. Different preschools in Singapore may follow various educational philosophies such as Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf, or a play-based approach. It’s crucial to understand these methodologies and determine which aligns best with your child’s learning style and your educational values.
For instance, Montessori emphasises self-directed learning and independence, while Reggio Emilia focuses on experiential learning and community involvement. Evaluate the curriculum’s structure, flexibility, and how it fosters critical thinking, creativity, and social skills.
2. Teacher Qualifications and Ratios
The qualifications and experience of the teaching staff are vital in ensuring high-quality education and care for your child. Look for preschools with well-trained, certified, and experienced teachers passionate about early childhood education.
Additionally, consider the teacher-to-student ratio, as smaller class sizes often allow for more individualised attention and support. In Singapore, the recommended teacher-to-student ratio for preschools is 1 to 8 for children aged three to four years old. Ensuring the preschool adheres to or surpasses this standard can significantly enhance your child’s learning experience.
3. Facilities and Learning Environment
The physical environment of a preschool plays a crucial role in your child’s overall development. A safe, clean, and stimulating environment is essential for fostering learning and creativity. When visiting preschools, observe the classrooms, playgrounds, and other facilities. Check if they are well-maintained, age-appropriate, and equipped with various educational materials and resources.
Additionally, consider the preschool’s safety measures, such as secure entry and exit points, emergency procedures, and staff supervision. A well-designed learning environment should also offer ample opportunities for both indoor and outdoor activities, promoting physical, social, and cognitive development.
4. School Culture and Values
Every preschool has its own culture and set of values that can significantly influence your child’s early education experience. It is vital to choose a preschool whose culture and values align with your family’s beliefs and expectations. Consider aspects such as the school’s approach to discipline, emphasis on character development, and involvement in community activities.
5. Parental Involvement and Communication
Effective communication and parental involvement are crucial components of a successful preschool experience. Look for preschools that encourage active participation from parents and maintain open lines of communication. This can include regular updates on your child’s progress and parent-teacher meetings.
A preschool that values and facilitates parental involvement often leads to a more supportive and enriching learning environment for your child. Clear and consistent communication ensures you stay informed about your child’s development and any school-related matters.
| Overview Of The Best Preschools And Kindergartens In Singapore | ||||
| Preschool And Kindergarten | Years In The Industry | Notable Highlights | ||
| Little Seeds Preschool | 6 |
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| Brighton Montessori | 30 |
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| Odyssey The Global Preschool | 26 |
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| EtonHouse International School And Preschool | 31 |
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| My First Skool | 46 |
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There you have it – your one-stop guide to the best preschools and kindergartens in Singapore. Choosing the right preschool for your child is paramount to their development. So, keep what we shared in mind to ensure you make an informed decision, providing a strong foundation for your child’s early education and development. Remember, the right preschool should meet your child’s educational needs while nurturing their overall well-being and growth, setting the stage for a lifelong love of learning.
