Best 9 Childcare & Infant-Care Centres in Singapore: Complete Parent’s Guide

EARLY EDUCATION OPTIONS IN SINGAPORE: Childcare vs Infant Care vs Kindergarten in Singapore

If you're looking into early education options in Singapore, it can be confusing to navigate the terms childcare, infant care, and kindergarten. Each caters to a specific age group and family need. Here's a simple guide to help you understand the differences.

Childcare Centres in Singapore (18 months to 6 years)

• Childcare centres in Singapore are designed for children aged 18 months to 6 years and offer both full-day and half-day programmes. These centres are well-suited for working parents as they operate on weekdays and are only closed on weekends and up to seven additional days each year. Most childcare centres stay open during the MOE school holidays. Meals are typically included, such as breakfast, lunch, and a tea break. Some centres also include time for showers in the daily schedule.

Infant Care in Singapore (2 to 17 months):

• Infant care programmes cater to babies from as young as 2 months old up to around 17 months. These programmes are often provided by selected childcare centres and can be either full-day or half-day. Infant care tends to cost more than childcare due to the higher level of individual care required. However, government subsidies are available to offset the cost, especially for working parents.

Kindergarten and Preschools in Singapore (18 months to 7 years):

• Kindergartens and preschools generally offer structured, half-day programmes aimed at preparing children for primary school. They serve children aged 18 months to 7 years and typically follow the Ministry of Education (MOE) school calendar. This means they close during school holidays and on public holidays. However, international preschools may follow a different academic year depending on their curriculum.

FEES AND SUBSIDIES: Childcare & Infant Care Fees & Subsidies in Singapore (ECDA Licensed Centres)

Good news, parents! If your child is a Singapore Citizen, you're eligible for substantial childcare subsidies when you enrol them in an ECDA-licensed centre.

• For full-day childcare, you can get a Basic Subsidy of up to SG$300/month.

• For infant care (2–18 months), it goes up to SG$600/month.

• If you're a working mother, you may qualify for the Additional Subsidy, which scales based on your household income—lower-income families receive even higher support, helping to make quality care much more affordable.

ECDA Preschool Subsidies

Key Information for Parents - Who Is Eligible Exactly?:

• Eligibility: Child must be a Singapore Citizen and enrolled in an ECDA-licensed infant care or childcare centre.

• Working Applicant: Defined as a parent (usually the mother, or a single father) working 56 hours/month or more, including full-time, part-time, or freelance work.

• Additional Subsidy: Means-tested based on household income (HHI up to $12,000/month) or per capita income (PCI). Lower-income families receive more support.

• Special Approval: Non-working parents may qualify for additional subsidy temporarily due to valid reasons like:

  • Caring for another child or elderly family member

  • Medical issues or pregnancy

  • Full-time studies

• Minimum Co‑Payment: Families must pay a small amount monthly, starting from SG$3 (childcare) or SG$40 (infant care) for the lowest income tiers.

MAKING A CHOICE: Choosing a Childcare or Infant Care Centre in Singapore

Looking to enrol your child in a childcare, infant care, or kindergarten programme in Singapore? Here are the key things parents often look out for when selecting the right centre.

• Hygiene and Safety: Cleanliness is non-negotiable, especially for infants and toddlers. Ask about cleaning routines, nap area arrangements, and safe sleep practices.
• Educator Consistency: Low staff turnover often signals a stable, nurturing environment. Long-term educators tend to foster stronger relationships with children.
• Child-Centred Layout: Smaller infant rooms and age-specific groupings help maintain a calm, developmentally appropriate environment. Mixed-age setups can be overwhelming, especially for younger babies.
• Overall Centre Vibe: It might sound unscientific, but many parents go with their gut. If the centre feels warm and welcoming, that’s a good sign.

Questions to Ask on Your Centre Visit:

• What is the staff-to-child ratio by age group?

• Do you accept expressed breast milk, cloth nappies, or cater to special diets?

• What is your policy on sick days, make-up days, and holidays?

• Will the staff follow my child’s nap schedule or daily routines?

• How long have the teachers been with the centre?

MULBERRY LEARNING: Infant Care For Babies Aged 2–17 Months In Singapore

Mulberry Learning offers a nurturing bilingual preschool experience for children aged 2 months to 6 years across multiple locations in Singapore. Its award-winning curriculum blends Reggio Emilia–inspired project learning with Howard Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences and the Habits of Mind framework. Children develop critical thinking, creativity, and a love for inquiry, alongside strong literacy and numeracy skills in both English and Chinese. With a focus on holistic growth, Mulberry Learning provides an engaging environment where every child’s unique potential is celebrated.

Mulberry Learning’s Infant Care (2–17 months) offers full- and half-day options in nurturing, thoughtfully designed spaces. Babies explore through experiential learning across five key domains—Self-Exploration, Music & Stories, Muscle Development, Thematic Discovery, and Multi-Sensory Experience—with signature programmes like Little Explorer™, Music Stimulation™, First Touch™, Muscle Master™, and Colourful World™.

• Age Range: Infant Care For Babies Aged 2–17 Months In Singapore
• Curriculum: Reggio Emilia–inspired project learning with Howard Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences and the Habits of Mind framework. Delivered bilingually with English and Chinese, emphasizing critical thinking, inquiry, creativity, and foundational literacy and numeracy.
• Program: Mulberry Learning’s Infant Care in Singapore offers Full-Day and Half-Day care options.

Mulberry Learning, multiple locations in Singapore, +65 6653 8082, enquiry@mulberrylearning.com, www.mulberrylearning.com

NEST PRESCHOOL: Nido (Infant Program) For Babies And Toddlers Ages 2-18 Months In Singapore

Nest Preschool in Singapore offers an authentic Montessori experience blending academic rigour with joyful, child-centred learning. Serving children from as young as 2 months to 6 years, its curriculum spans three stages—Nido (infants), Toddler, and Children’s House—each tailored to children’s developmental needs. With certified Montessori guides, dual-language immersion in English and Mandarin, and thoughtfully prepared environments, Nest fosters independence, motor skills, language development, sensorimotor exploration, and early literacy and numeracy. Transparent, all-inclusive fees and real-time parental engagement add convenience and peace of mind. Multiple campuses across Singapore welcome families to explore their vibrant learning community.

Nest Preschool’s Nido (2–18 months) programme nurtures infant independence through free movement—no playpens or high chairs—encouraging strength, coordination, and confidence in a child-friendly environment. Attentive infant specialists use sensitive observation to support routines, gently guiding sleep, eating, and toileting. Bilingual interaction in English and Mandarin fosters early language development through clear descriptions, songs, and stories. This Montessori-inspired approach empowers infants to explore safely, develop motor and language skills, and thrive at their own pace.

• Age Range: Nido (Infant Program) For Babies And Toddlers Ages 2-18 Months
• Curriculum: Individualised, child-led programming with dual-language support. Focuses on independence, emotional intelligence, and academic readiness through tailored learning experiences.
• Nest Preschool, four locations in Singapore, +65 8089 7476, admissions@nestpreschool.sg, www.nestpreschool.sg

RAFFLES KIDZ INTERNATIONAL: Playgroup & Pre-Nursery in Singapore For Kids Ages 18-30 Months

Raffles Kidz International provides a high-quality bilingual preschool experience for children aged 18 months to 6 years, with English and Chinese co-teachers creating a rich language environment. Combining inquiry-based learning with Montessori influences, the curriculum nurtures literacy, numeracy, creativity, and motor skills. Children enjoy structured lessons alongside exciting enrichment modules like Gourmet Chef and Creative Artist, fostering both academic readiness and creative expression. With multiple locations across Singapore, Raffles Kidz International offers a comprehensive, engaging education in a warm and supportive setting.

Raffles Kidz International’s Pre-Nursery (Playgroup) serves toddlers aged 18 to 30 months in a thoughtful, play-based learning setting. The curriculum embraces hands-on discovery and open-ended play, fostering independence and refining gross motor skills as children feed themselves, dress, and begin toilet training. Responsive, trained educators nurture social-emotional growth through team-based interactions—sharing, turn-taking, and emotional expression. The supportive environment encourages curiosity, engagement, and positive relationships while preparing toddlers for their next developmental stages. With its award-winning approach, Raffles Kidz delivers a warm, enriching beginning to early childhood education in Singapore.

Raffles Kidz International

• Age Range: Playgroup & Pre-Nursery in Singapore For Kids Ages 18-30 Months
• Curriculum: Bilingual immersion with English and Chinese co-teachers paired with inquiry-based and Montessori influences. Structured, comprehensive lessons in literacy, numeracy, creative arts, and motor skills via enrichment modules like Gourmet Chef and Creative Artist.

Raffles Kidz International, multiple locations in Singapore, +65 9235 0893, www.hs.raffleskidz.com

HOUSE ON THE HILL MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL: Nido Program For Kids In Singapore From 2-17 Months

• Age Range: Nido Program For Kids In Singapore From 2-17 Months
• Curriculum: Montessori inspired

House on The Hill Montessori Preschool, multiple locations in Singapore,  info@houseonthehill.com.sg, www.houseonthehill.com.sg

JOSIAH MONTESSORI: Infant Care For Kids Ages 2–18 Months In Singapore

Josiah Montessori invites families to embark on “The Josiah Way”—a journey of curiosity, creativity, and self-discovery. Through a unique blend of Montessori learning, the arts, and personalized care, children are nurtured into confident, compassionate thinkers. Visitors can book a personalized school tour to explore their holistic and enriching curriculum firsthand.

Josiah Montessori’s Infant Care (2–18 months) nurtures babies in a loving, Montessori-based setting where sensory exploration, music, storytelling, and early movement flourish. Through “Montessori Moments,” baby signing, music sessions, sensor-rich activities, quiet time, and safe tumble-and-roll play, caregivers support each infant’s growth, curiosity, and gentle progression toward toddlerhood.

• Age Range: Infant Care (2–18 months)
• Curriculum: Combines Montessori principles with its own Musical Arts Programme™ (MAP), blending music, movement, language, and Montessori learning to nurture creativity and bilingual fluency.

Josiah Montessori, multiple locations in Singapore, info@josiah.com.sg, www.visit.josiah.com.sg

CARPE DIEM PRESCHOOL: Infant Care Program In Singapore For Kids Ages 2-17 Months

Carpe Diem Preschool offers bilingual, inclusive early education for children aged 18 months to 6 years, with multiple locations across Singapore. Its student-centred curriculum places a strong emphasis on language development, enabling children to become confident communicators in both English and Chinese. Through engaging, hands-on activities, children explore literacy, numeracy, creative arts, and motor skills while developing social-emotional awareness. The supportive, nurturing environment celebrates diversity and encourages each child’s unique strengths. By combining structured learning with purposeful play, Carpe Diem Preschool equips young learners with the skills and confidence to thrive in school and beyond.

Carpe Diem Preschool’s Infant Programme (2–17 months) nurtures each child’s potential through active, play-based learning in both physical and social environments. Infants develop multiple intelligences, including linguistic skills, through rich sensory experiences and language exposure. The programme aligns with the Early Years Development Framework, fostering well-being, curiosity, and early autonomy.

• Age Range: Infant Programme (2–17 months)
• Curriculum: Bilingual, play-based learning with a focus on sensory development.

Carpe Diem Preschool, multiple locations in Singapore, www.carpediem.com.sg

STAR LEARNERS CHILDCARE: Infant Care For Children Aged 2 Months - 17 Months In Singapore

Star Learners is a well-established early childhood education provider in Singapore, offering Infant Care through Kindergarten programmes across 44 centres island-wide. Their proprietary literature-based curriculum uses authentic stories to spark curiosity and develop essential skills like critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and empathy. As a Partner Operator appointed by ECDA, they ensure quality education remains accessible and affordable, with full-day fees for Singaporean children capped at around S$680 before subsidies. Dedicated educators, holistic character development, and story-driven learning come together to nurture confident, creative young learners.

Star Learners’ Infant Care nurtures children aged from just two months with a relationship-based approach that emphasises meaningful bonds between attentive educators and each baby. The carefully tailored curriculum immerses infants in sensory-rich experiences designed around developmental milestones, fostering curiosity and exploration in a warm, supportive environment. Star Learners adheres to ECDA’s teacher-child ratio guidelines to ensure personalised attention, helping infants develop foundational skills and confidence. Across its widely accessible POP-partnered centres, this early learning journey lays the groundwork for holistic growth—intellectual, emotional, and social.

• Age Range: Infant Care For Children Aged 2 Months - 17 Months In Singapore
• Curriculum: ECDA’s teacher-child ratio guidelines + relationship-based approach.

Star Learners Child Care, multiple locations in Singapore, WhatsApp: +65 9299 1366, info@starlearners.com.sg, www.starlearners.com.sg

CHILDREN'S COVE PRESCHOOL: Infant Care Program For Babies Ages 2-17 Months In Singapore

Children’s Cove Preschool, established in 2010, offers enriching programmes for children aged 2 months to 6 years across multiple locations in Singapore. Their proprietary C.O.V.E™ approach—Child-Centred, Outcome-Aware, Values-Based, and Environmentally-Conscious—guides their curriculum. This approach fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity through hands-on learning experiences. Children engage in activities like gardening, cooking, and art appreciation, which enhance their cognitive and social development. The preschool emphasizes outdoor learning, providing ample space for children to explore and connect with nature. With a focus on holistic development, Children’s Cove prepares young learners for future success.

Children’s Cove Preschool offers an enriching Infant Care programme for babies aged 2 to 17 months across multiple locations, including Jalan Penjara, Orange Grove, and Sembawang. The curriculum is designed to nurture each child’s development through sensory-rich experiences, fostering curiosity and early learning. Infants engage in activities that promote motor skills, language development, and social interaction, all within a safe and stimulating environment. With a focus on individualized care and attention, Children’s Cove ensures that each infant's unique needs are met, laying a strong foundation for future learning.

• Age Range: 2 months – 6 years
• Curriculum: Award-winning, curiosity-driven programming that prioritizes active learning, thinking skills, and personal engagement through innovative educational experiences.

Children’s Cove Preschool, multiple locations in Singapore, www.childrenscove.sg

ETONHOUSE GARDEN SCHOOL BY THE BAY: Infant Care Programme For Kids Ages 9-18 Months In Singapore's Gardens By The Bay

EtonHouse Garden School by the Bay offers a boutique Infant Care programme for infants aged 9 to 18 months. Situated within the lush surroundings of Gardens by the Bay, the programme provides a stimulating environment that encourages exploration and discovery. Infants have access to a wide range of materials, including age-appropriate books, toys, and manipulatives, supporting their cognitive development. The curriculum incorporates the Inquire.Think.Learn framework, promoting inquiry-based learning and critical thinking from a young age. With a teacher-to-student ratio of 1:2, each infant receives individualized attention, fostering holistic development and ensuring a high level of care and safety.

• Age Range: Infant Care Programme For Kids Ages 9-18 Months
• Curriculum: Reggio Emilia–inspired inquiry-based learning. Inquire.Think.Learn framework.

EtonHouse International School and Pre-School, multiple locations in Singapore, www.etonhouse.edu.sg

MORE CHILDCARE AND INFANT CARE CENTRES IN SINGAPORE: Top Childcare & Infant Care Centres in Singapore

More Childcare Centres In Singapore:

• Adventure Tree Preschool, four locations in Singapore,  www.adventuretree.com.sg
• Brighton Montessori by Busy Bees, all over Singapore,  www.brightonmontessori.com.sg
• LeClare Preschool, Singapore Conference Hall,  www.leclare.edu.sg
• Little Green House, numerous locations in Singapore, www.littlegreenhouse.com.sg
• Mosaic Preschool, East Coast, Singapore, www.mosaicpreschool.sg
• Alphabet Playhouse, 16 Dublin Road, www.alphabetplayhouse.com.sg
• Adventist Schoolhouse, 90 Jurong East Street, www.ash.edu.sg
• PCF Sparkletots, multiple locations in Singapore, www.pcf.org.sg
• My First Skool, 150 multiple locations in Singapore,  www.myfirstskool.com