Looking for the best childcare options in Singapore? We know how important it is to find a place where your little one not only feels safe and happy but also gets the right start in their learning journey. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the top childcare centers across Singapore, from those with a cozy, home-like atmosphere to those offering international-level education. Whether you’re drawn to a highly reputable center that’s made a name globally or a trusted local gem that’s close to the heart of Singaporean culture, there’s something for every family.
Related reading: Check out our guides to Cooking Classes, Cooking Party for Kids.
Childcare, Infant Care, and Kindergarten: What’s the Difference?
Navigating the world of early education in Singapore can be a bit overwhelming, especially when you’re deciding between childcare, infant care, and kindergartens. Here's a simple breakdown to help you understand the key differences and choose what’s best for your little one!
Childcare Centres in Singapore
Childcare centres are designed for children aged 18 months to 6 years old. They offer both half-day and full-day programmes, perfect for working parents who need reliable, extended care. Most centres are open from 7am to 7pm, and some even offer half-day classes on Saturdays, although these Saturday programmes will be phased out by 2025.
These centres are great for parents with full-time jobs, as they stay open year-round, closing only on Sundays and 7 additional days a year. This means they’re available during MOE school holidays too. Childcare centres provide meals, usually including breakfast, lunch, and a snack for tea time, and some even have shower facilities.
Infant Care in Singapore
Infant care centres cater to babies as young as two months old, offering both full-day and half-day care options. Since caring for infants requires more attention and resources, the fees for infant care are generally higher than those for regular childcare.
Infant care centres follow the same schedule as childcare centres, meaning they’re available from 7am to 7pm and provide meals and other necessities. This makes infant care a lifesaver for parents returning to work shortly after mom childcare leave in Singapore!
Preschool/Kindergartens in Singapore
Preschools and kindergartens typically cater to children aged 18 months to 6 years old, offering mostly half-day programmes. Unlike childcare centres, preschools and kindergartens are closed on public holidays and MOE school holidays, except for those that follow an international academic calendar.
These schools focus on preparing kids for primary school, blending fun and learning through structured activities, so your child is ready for the next step in their education journey.
Alphabet Playhouse
Image Credit: Alphabet Playhouse via Facebook
At Alphabet Playhouse Childcare, the goal is to unlock every child’s potential through an award-winning curriculum that develops confident young explorers with a 'Growth Mindset.' Their unique World Adventurer bilingual integrated programme ensures a well-rounded education that fosters curiosity, resilience, and kindness. Whether your child is learning to become a curious thinker, a resilient problem-solver, or a caring citizen, Alphabet Playhouse is committed to making learning an exciting adventure!
Locations: Dublin Road, East Coast Road
Cambridge Preschool Singapore
Cambridge Preschool Childcare focuses on fostering creativity and problem-solving skills through innovative programs like iSTEAM. They integrate technology into learning to prepare children for future advancements.
Locations: 10 centres
Carpe Diem Preschool
With 32 centres across the island, Carpe Diem Preschool Childcare is a leader in early childhood education in Singapore. Catering to children from 18 months to 6 years old, Carpe Diem provides a nurturing and inclusive bilingual environment where kids gain the confidence to master both languages. Their curriculum is designed to support every child’s developmental needs, encouraging active participation and a love for learning.
Locations: Multiple locations, including Toa Payoh, Carpe Diem Bukit Batok, and Hougang
Cherrybrook Preschool @ Thomson
Cherrybrook Preschool Childcare @ Thomson provides a nurturing and dynamic environment tailored to the developmental needs of young children. As part of Cherrybrook's commitment to early childhood education, this centre offers a comprehensive and balanced curriculum designed to foster a love for learning and support holistic growth.
Location: Multiple locations, including Thomson
Children’s Cove Preschool
Since opening its doors in 2010, Children’s Cove Preschool has earned a stellar reputation with its award-winning childcare and infant care programmes. The school’s curriculum is all about nurturing curiosity, encouraging active learning, and building essential reasoning skills. With fun and innovative programmes like 'Farm to Table' and 'Wordless Wonders', kids are always engaged and excited to learn.
At Children’s Cove, they take a personalised approach using their unique C.O.V.E Methodology, which focuses on each child’s individual goals. This ensures your little one’s progress is always tracked and tailored to their needs. On top of that, the preschool is big on instilling strong values and fostering an appreciation for the environment. As a bonus, parents are encouraged to be actively involved in their child’s learning, making it a true team effort!
Locations: Novena, Orange Grove, Pasir Ris
EtonHouse International School and Pre-School
Image Credit: EtonHouse International Schools and Pre-Schools via Facebook
EtonHouse Childcare stands out as the only school in Singapore with a formal connection to Reggio Children as part of its international network. Offering a seamless progression from Infant Care to High School, EtonHouse ensures your child is well-prepared for future academic challenges. With internationally recognised programmes like IBPYP, IGCSE, and A-Levels, children from 9 months to 18 years can receive world-class education all under one roof.
Locations: Claymore Road, Sentosa, Newton
House on the Hill Montessori Childcare
If you’re a fan of the Montessori method, look no further than House on the Hill Childcare. Located at Balmoral, this preschool offers a warm and nurturing environment for infants as young as two months up to six years old. Their Nido Programme caters to infants aged 2 to 17 months, embracing Montessori’s hands-on approach to encourage exploration and independence.
For older children, aged 1.5 to 6 years, the school’s Montessori curriculum is designed to meet each child’s developmental needs, building a solid foundation for academic success. With spacious classrooms and plenty of outdoor play spaces, your child will love their time spent at House on the Hill. Plus, the optional afternoon Mandarin programme is a great way to boost your child’s language skills.
Locations: Mount Sophia, Balmoral, Pasir Panjang, Hollandse Club
Josiah Montessori Childcare
With 25 years of experience in Singapore, Josiah Montessori Child care stands out for its distinct approach known as "The Josiah Way". It blends the well-loved Montessori method with a special focus on music education. Here, your little one isn't just learning academically but also tapping into their creativity through the Musical Arts Programme, which includes singing, dancing, and classical music exposure. It’s designed to help kids express themselves confidently while having fun!
The teachers at Josiah Montessori are passionate and experienced, making sure every child gets individual attention to grow at their own pace. Plus, all the centres are kept clean, safe, and super nurturing – which is a big plus for us mums! With locations in Suntec City Mall, Changi Business Park, and Pasir Ris, you can easily find one that’s convenient.
Locations: Suntec City Mall, Changi Business Park, Pasir Ris, and more
Kinderland Preschool
Kinderland Childcare provides a full-day program that combines bilingual education with daily custodial care. Their curriculum supports holistic development and independence, with a focus on early literacy and numeracy.
Locations: 15 centres
LeClare Preschool
Looking for a preschool that offers a bilingual and holistic experience? LeClare Preschool Childcare delivers just that, with programmes designed for kids as young as 2 months to 6 years old. The school is heavily influenced by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, focusing on inquiry-based and play-based learning. From languages to math to discovering the world around them, your child will be ready to take on primary school with confidence!
What sets LeClare apart is their dedication to language. They mix in English and Mandarin through fun songs and games, giving kids a strong foundation in both languages. And the creativity doesn’t stop there. With lessons from Art and Music Specialists, plus fun activities like Culinary Arts and Messy Play, there’s always something exciting happening.
LeClare also runs an amazing infant care programme, where educators build strong bonds with the babies through respectful interactions. In every class, you’ll find bilingual teachers, and the kids come from all over the world, making it a truly dynamic space.
Location: LeClare Preschool Childcare, Singapore Conference Hall, 7 Shenton Way
Little Green House
Little Green House Childcare has been a trusted name in early childhood education since 2005, known for its Literacy SMART™ curriculum and creative enrichment programmes. This award-winning preschool integrates hands-on activities with academic learning, preparing children for a successful transition to primary school. With centres all over Singapore, Little Green House offers both childcare and infant care, ensuring that your little ones get the best possible start in life.
Locations: Multiple locations, including Aljunied, Serangoon, Woodlands, Little Green House Yishun
Little Footprints Preschool @Thomson
Little Footprints Childcare offers a curriculum with term-based themes and hands-on activities that encourage sensory exploration and community involvement. They aim to develop confident, independent thinkers who are also caring citizens.
Locations: Various locations, including Thomson
Little Skool-House
Known for its focus on bilingual education and reading readiness, Little Skool-House Childcare helps children excel in both Mandarin and English. Their programs include preparation for primary school, with an emphasis on critical thinking and emotional development.
Locations: 20 centres islandwide
Little Seeds Preschool
Formed by Anglican Preschool Services, Little Seeds Preschool Childcare combines faith-based values with early childhood education. They provide a nurturing environment with a focus on holistic development across 16 locations.
Locations: 16 centres
Little Paddington Preschool
Little Paddington Childcare emphasizes bilingual education and offers a range of programs including Mandarin immersion and primary school preparation. Their facilities include outdoor spaces designed to enhance learning experiences.
Locations: 8 centres
MapleBear Preschool
MapleBear Childcare employs a Bilingual Immersion methodology to promote fluency in English and Mandarin from a young age. Their Canadian education approach ensures children are well-prepared in both languages by the end of their preschool years.
Locations: Various locations
MOE Kindergarten
MOE Kindergarten (MK) Childcare provides a nurturing environment where children can explore and learn through play. Each day is packed with fun activities that foster a love for learning. Classes are 4 hours long, with options to attend in the morning (8 am to 12 pm) or the afternoon (1 pm to 5 pm). For parents who need extended hours, Kindergarten Care (KCare) is available, offering childcare before and after class time.
MOE Kindergarten works closely with preschools like PCF Sparkletots and My First Skool, ensuring a smooth transition and continuity in early childhood education. The curriculum at MK emphasizes bilingualism and includes exciting lessons on Singapore’s diverse culture, community, and languages, helping children grow into confident and well-rounded individuals.
Locations: 62 centres across Singapore
Mulberry Learning Centre
If you’re looking for an award-winning preschool that takes learning to the next level, Mulberry Learning Preschool Childcare might just be the perfect fit. Founded in 2006, it’s known for being the first preschool in the world certified under the Habits of Mind framework, teaching kids 12 essential life habits like persistence and critical thinking. Honestly, how cool is that?
The school is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, so the learning spaces are super creative. Think Imaginary Playscapes and Discovery Coves where kids’ imaginations run wild! Plus, the school has an amazing language programme, teaching both English and Mandarin. You’ll be impressed when your little one starts spouting Chinese idioms and poems!
And for the younger ones, Mulberry also offers infant care with hands-on learning programmes like Little Explorer and Muscle Master. They even throw in spa and massage sessions for infants – seriously, talk about pampering!
Locations: Alexandra, Jurong East, East Coast, and more
My First Skool
My First Skool Childcare is one of Singapore’s most trusted childcare and infant care providers, with more than 150 centres across the island. No matter where you live, there’s likely a centre nearby. What sets My First Skool apart is its focus on fostering strong relationships and emotional resilience in children, alongside a solid foundation in core subjects like math and literacy. With such a widespread presence, they are a convenient and reliable option for many families.
Locations: Ang Mo Kio, My First Skool Sengkang, Boon Lay, My First Skool woodlands, and more
My Little Campus
My Little Campus Childcare aims to spark intrinsic motivation and enjoyment in learning with a focus on bilingualism. They offer a curriculum that combines fun with academics to ensure children are prepared for primary school and beyond.
Address: My Little Campus Childcare, 735 Pasir Ris Street 72, #02-344, Singapore 510735
MY World Preschool
Established by Metropolitan YMCA in 1980, MY World Preschool Childcare focuses on both education and character development through a 'spiral' learning approach, revisiting and expanding on previously learned concepts. They offer programs for children from 2 months to 6 years old, including infant care, playgroups, and nursery to kindergarten classes.
Is this childcare near me? MY World Preschool Childcare, 60 Stevens Road, Singapore 257854
Odyssey The Global Preschool
Odyssey Childcare utilizes the Reggio Emilia approach, promoting active learning through exploration and discovery. Their classrooms include spaces like the Piazza and Children’s Library, and they offer a Chinese language program as part of their curriculum.
Locations: 6 centres
PCF Sparkletots
With over 360 preschools and infant care centres, PCF Sparkletots Childcare is the largest childcare operator in Singapore. Established in 1986, Sparkle tots has grown to become a cornerstone in the community, providing reliable childcare services to families across the island. Known for their comprehensive and caring environment, they focus on early childhood education while offering affordable options under the ECDA scheme.
Is PCF Sparkletots near me? Simei, Yishun, Clementi, and more
Posso Preschool
Posso Childcare uses the Multiple Intelligences approach, aligned with the Nurturing Early Learners (NEL) framework. They focus on a broad range of learning areas and offer a bilingual program with a low child-to-teacher ratio for personalized attention.
Locations: Jurong East, Tampines, West Coast Rise, Rivervale, and Fernvale
Raffles Kidz International
Raffles Kidz International Childcare, founded in 2013, is another award-winning preschool that’s highly praised by parents. Known for its bilingual curriculum and emphasis on building a strong academic foundation, this preschool has consistently been recognised for its top-notch childcare services.
Raffles Kidz takes a holistic approach, ensuring your child’s cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development are well-nurtured. Raffles children's centre spacious classrooms and thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces encourage interaction and exploration, making learning a fun and engaging experience. Lessons are led by highly trained professionals who are dedicated to supporting your child’s growth.
Locations: Yio Chu Kang, Punggol, Yishun
Star Learners
At Star Learners Childcare, education is brought to life through their literature-based curriculum, which encourages kids to develop essential life skills in a fun and engaging way. With 43 centres across Singapore, Star Learners blends creativity with structured learning. As a key partner in the ECDA Partner Operator (POP) scheme, they’re committed to making quality childcare accessible and affordable for all families.
Locations: Bishan, Choa Chu Kang, One-North, and more
Small Wonder Preschool
Small Wonder Childcare emphasizes self-directed learning with hands-on exploration and sensory activities. Their curriculum supports communication skills and social development, preparing children for lifelong learning.
Locations: 33 centres islandwide
Superland Montessori
Superland Montessori Childcare offers an integrated curriculum that encourages practical life skills and a passion for learning. Their environment supports exploration and discovery with an open-door communication policy for parents.
Location: Superland Montessori Childcare, 568, Ganges Ave, #02-102, Singapore 160568
Also, you can use the preschool search portal to find more childcare centres in Singapore.
Childcare Subsidy in Singapore
The cost of childcare and infant care can vary, but the good news is, if your child is a Singapore Citizen, you can benefit from subsidies. The Basic ECDA Subsidy covers up to $300 per month for full-day childcare and up to $600 per month for full-day infant care when you enrol in an ECDA-licensed childcare centre.
Working mums can also qualify for an Additional Subsidy, and lower-income families are eligible for even higher subsidies, helping to ease the financial burden. Keep in mind that the fees mentioned here are before subsidies, so the final cost may be much lower depending on your eligibility.
Childcare FAQ
What age is childcare in Singapore?
In Singapore, childcare services typically cater to children from 2 months to 6 years old. The exact age range can vary depending on the specific child care centre, with some offering infant care for children as young as 2 months and others focusing on preschool-aged children up to 6 years.
Is preschool the same as childcare?
While both preschool and childcare provide early education and care, they serve slightly different purposes:
Preschool: Generally refers to educational programs for children aged 3 to 6 years, focusing on preparing them for primary school. Preschools often offer structured learning experiences that include social, cognitive, and emotional development.
Childcare: Encompasses a broader range of services that provide care for children from infancy through early childhood. This includes both educational and non-educational programs. Childcare centres may offer flexible schedules to accommodate working parents and often provide a safe environment with activities that support overall development.
What does childcare cost per hour?
The cost of childcare in Singapore varies widely depending on the type of care and the centre’s location. On average:
Full-day care: Typically ranges from SGD $700 to $1,500 per month, depending on the centre’s facilities and the age of the child.
Hourly rates: Some centres offer hourly rates for part-time care, which can range from SGD $8 to $15 per hour.
It's best to contact individual childcare centres for specific fee structures and details.
How to get a 1-year-old used to daycare?
Getting a 1-year-old accustomed to daycare can be a smooth process with some preparation:
Start Slowly: Begin with short visits to the daycare to help your child become familiar with the new environment and caregivers. Gradually increase the duration of these visits.
Consistency: Establish a consistent routine for drop-offs and pick-ups. Consistent timings help children feel secure and understand what to expect.
Comfort Items: Allow your child to bring a familiar comfort item, like a favorite toy or blanket, to daycare. This can provide reassurance and comfort in a new setting.
Positive Reinforcement: Praise and encourage your child for attending daycare and participating in activities. Keep the conversation positive and excited about the new experiences they will have.
Stay Calm: Children can pick up on their parents' emotions. Stay calm and confident during drop-offs to help your child feel more secure and comfortable.
Communication: Keep open communication with the daycare staff. They can provide valuable insights into your child's adjustment and suggest strategies to ease the transition.