
Singapore parents know the early years shape everything that follows. Finding the right preschool means balancing nurturing care, engaging learning, and practical convenience for busy families across the island. Whether you prefer play-based exploration, bilingual immersion, Montessori, or Reggio-inspired creativity, Singapore’s vibrant scene offers options tailored for toddlers and preschoolers aged 18 months to 6 years.
Last updated: June 2026
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What are the main types of preschools and kindergartens in Singapore?
Singapore offers diverse options including MOE Kindergartens following the Nurturing Early Learners framework, affordable Anchor Operator centres like PCF Sparkletots and My First Skool for full-day care, international preschools using Reggio Emilia or Montessori approaches, and bilingual programmes. Select based on your child’s age (2 months to 6 years), learning style, and location.
How much do preschools and kindergartens cost in Singapore?
Costs range widely: MOE Kindergartens start around S$160/month for citizens, Anchor Operators cap full-day childcare at S$680–720, while private and international options can reach S$1,500–3,500/month. Government subsidies help eligible families significantly.
Are preschools and kindergartens the same in Singapore?
In Singapore, preschool is an umbrella for early childhood education, while kindergarten is a specific stage within the preschool system.
What should I look for when choosing a preschool in Singapore?
Focus on ECDA licensing, curriculum fit like play-based or inquiry-led, qualified teachers, good facilities, convenient location, and trial sessions. Match your child’s personality and family values by visiting centres and checking parent reviews.
When should I start applying to kindergartens in Singapore?
Applications typically open 6–12 months ahead, especially for popular centres. For K1 entry, register early in the prior year. International and private options fill fast, so start researching promptly for your preferred intake.
Are bilingual preschools worth it for children in Singapore?
Yes, bilingual English-Mandarin programmes build strong language foundations early, support cultural exposure, and align with Singapore’s bilingual policy for better school readiness. Check our guide on bilingual early years schools here.
From the trusted creators of Little Skool-House, Changemakers Explorer delivers a fresh, premium approach to early childhood education for ages 0–6 with six centres islandwide.
Its signature Symphonic Learning™ blends Science, Arts, Language, and Play into interdisciplinary projects that culminate in child-led showcases, while Zone-in-Zone classrooms promote independence and executive function. Bilingual Drama Pedagogy and AI-assisted tools build confident language skills.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
Changemakers Explorer Preschool, multiple centres islandwide Singapore, info.explorer@changemakersacademy.com, www.changemakersacademy.com. Open for visits and enquiries.
At NTUC First Campus' My First Skool, parents find a trusted partner in early education with a holistic curriculum designed to keep curious minds engaged through exploration and discovery.
Over 160 centres nationwide offer programmes from infant care to kindergarten, led by passionate, qualified educators who prioritise safety, learning, and emotional wellbeing. Families love the nurturing environments where children feel right at home while building essential skills.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
NTUC First Campus' My First Skool, Over 160 locations, +65 6509 7887, info@myfirstskool.com, www.myfirstskool.com
Celebrating their 45th anniversary, Kinderland stands out as Singapore’s leading early childhood education and care provider for children from 2 months to 6 years, with 15 centres across the island and a strong regional presence.
Their signature music-infused curriculum harnesses the power of instrument training to develop visual-spatial skills essential for maths and science, while sharpening memory, verbal intelligence, and literacy during the critical first five years of rapid brain growth. Kids engage senses through K.I.N.D.E.R multi-disciplinary lands.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
Kinderland Academy And Preschool, +65 6881 8818, enquiry@kinderland.com.sg, kinderland.com.sg
At XCL World Academy, families discover one of Singapore’s most forward-thinking IB World Schools offering a rich Early Years journey for children aged 18 months to 6 years. Set on a purpose-built 5-hectare campus in Yishun, the school provides a safe, inspiring environment where curiosity leads learning and young children are encouraged to explore, question, and build confidence through meaningful experiences.
The Little Xplorers programme brings learning to life through outdoor exploration, sensory activities, and hands-on discovery that nurture resilience, creativity, and independence. Guided by the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), children develop strong foundations in communication, collaboration, and critical thinking. A bilingual English-Chinese pathway further supports immersive language development through play, storytelling, and daily interaction.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
XCL World Academy, 2 Yishun Street 42, Singapore 768039, +65 6230 4230, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XCLWA, Instagram: @XCLunderscoreWA, admissions@xwa.edu.sg, http://xwa.edu.sg/
Stamford American Early Learning Village welcomes children aged 2 months to 6 years in a specially designed preschool from Pre-Nursery to Kindergarten 2. Inspired by Reggio Emilia, it boasts world-class facilities including child-height windows/doors, six outdoor playgrounds, and a covered swimming pool.
Their curriculum features specialist languages, Bilingual English/Mandarin, EAL support, and the exclusive Suzuki Violin Program. Explore this first-class international program located minutes from the main campus.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
Stamford American International School, Early Learning Village 3 Chuan Lane, Singapore 554350 +65 6602 7247, www.sais.edu.sg.
Established in 1995, Chatsworth International School delivers holistic, top-quality IB education at moderate fees in Singapore. The purpose-built early childhood centre opened in 2020, caters specially to ages 3–5 (K1–K2) with a play- and inquiry-based preschool curriculum that supports year-level content in small, student-centred classes.
Families appreciate the nurturing focus that builds confident, happy learners amid lush greenery next to Singapore’s only tropical rainforest.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
Chatsworth International School, 72 Bukit Tinggi Road, Singapore 289760, +65 6463 3201, admissions.bt@chatsworth.com.sg, www.chatsworth.com.sg
At Star Learners Child Care, every day is an opportunity to spark curiosity and imagination. Their unique literature-based curriculum uses award-winning picture books to bring stories to life.
Grounded in their proprietary Starbeam™ Framework, which aligns with the Ministry of Education’s Nurturing Early Learners framework, they focus on developing Happy Learners, Empathic thinkers, Respectful, confident communicators, and Open collaborators – their definition of a hero at Star Learners.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
Star Learners Child Care, 44 locations across Singapore, +65 6250 0173 / +65 9299 1366 (WhatsApp), info@starlearners.com.sg, www.starlearners.com.sg
Brighton College Singapore employs the English Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum to nurture children aged 18 months to 5 years across Pre-Nursery, Nursery, and Reception. With seven core areas and bilingual elements, it delivers adaptable, progress-assessed learning led by specialized teachers. Discover more at their official site.
Tuition fees provide excellent value: Pre-Nursery from SG$15,525, Nursery SG$30,190, Reception Years 1-2 SG$37,090, and Reception Years 3-6 SG$38,130.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
Brighton College Singapore, 1 Chuan Lane, Singapore 554299, +65 6505 9790, enquiries@brightoncollege.edu.sg, https://www.brightoncollege.edu.sg/
Rain Trees International Kindergarten provides a welcoming, close-knit atmosphere where children aged 18 months to 6 years flourish through joyful play, hands-on exploration, discussion, and discovery.
This well-rounded programme serves local and international families, building solid early foundations while preparing older children for seamless transitions into Singapore’s international primary schools. Admissions remain open year-round subject to availability.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
Rain Trees International Kindergarten, 255 Holland Road, Singapore -278604, +65 6474 6181, +65 80125575, admin@raintreeskindergarten.
For 25 years, ELFA Preschool has inspired young minds with quality bilingual Mandarin-English education. Recognised as Singapore’s most awarded preschool brand in China, they operate more than 20 centres.
Their unique core programme features Chinese Speech & Drama, Creative Art, Coding, and ELFA Higher-Order-Thinking Maths.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
ELFA Preschool, +65 6881 8818, enquiry@elfa.edu.sg, http://elfapreschools.com/
Little Skool-House, part of NTUC First Campus, brings 25 years of excellence in nurturing over 6,600 bilingual preschoolers.
Their programs emphasize Future Adaptability, Socio-Emotional Intelligence, Cultural Sensibility, and Cognitive Readiness alongside strong English-Mandarin bilingualism, helping children become confident communicators and lifelong learners.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
Little Skool-House, info@littleskoolhouse.com, www.littleskoolhouse.com
Dover Court International School’s Early Years Programme offers a warm and imaginative start to learning, blending the UK’s EYFS framework with Reggio Emilia-inspired exploration. Children learn through play, curiosity, and hands-on discovery—painting, storytelling, role-playing, nature building, and outdoor adventures that nurture creativity, resilience, social confidence, and emotional awareness.
Educators closely observe each child’s interests to design personalised activities that build independence and spark a genuine love for learning, supported by enriching experiences like nature walks, creative projects, and field trips beyond the classroom.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
Dover Court International School Singapore, 301 Dover Road, Singapore 139644, +65 6775 7664, admissions@dovercourt.edu.sg, www.dovercourt.edu.sg
For families seeking a preschool and kindergarten option that blends holistic early years learning with a strong academic foundation, The Perse School (Singapore) offers an engaging start through its Pelican School programme for ages 3–7.
Learning is grounded in curiosity and exploration with a play-based curriculum that transitions smoothly into structured lessons, helping children build confidence and a love of learning. Core areas include communication, literacy, numeracy, creative expression, and personal, social & emotional development.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
The Perse School (Singapore), 58 Chestnut Drive, Singapore 679301, +65 6233 2183, https://perse.edu.sg/
Since 1995, EtonHouse Preschool has been transforming early years education in Singapore with its Reggio-inspired, inquiry-based approach, serving over 25,000 students globally.
In Singapore, families enjoy childcare from 7am-7pm in both local ECDA-licensed and international preschools on an August–June calendar. All follow the exclusive Inquire.Think.Learn (ITL) framework, and EtonHouse is the only group affiliated with the Reggio Children International Network.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
EtonHouse, 11 preschools across Singapore, +65 6746 3333, admissions@etonhouse.edu.sg, www.etonhouse.com.sg.
In the most important foundation years, Australian International School Singapore recognises that giving children the best start has a lasting positive impact on their future learning. They have created a bespoke, innovative, creative, and warm purpose-built environment for their youngest students.
This new approach educates bright, inquiring minds from 2 months to 6 years, fostering limitless opportunities to learn, be inspired, grow, and develop.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
Australian International School Singapore, 1 Lorong Chuan, Singapore 556 818, +65 6517 0247, admissions@ais.com.sg, https://www.ais.com.sg/
Founded in 2007 and located in a beautiful green and central spot on Thomson Road, St. Joseph's Institution International Elementary School caters to children from Prep 1 (aged 4) to Grade 6 (aged 12).
With a Lasallian Catholic foundation that embraces all faiths and cultures, it forms part of a vibrant 1,800-student campus spanning pre-school to Grade 12. Families appreciate the supportive community and focus on holistic development.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
St. Joseph's Institution International Elementary School, 490 Thomson Road, Singapore 298191. +65 6353 9383, admissions.es@sji-international.com.sg, www.sji-international.com.sg
The Global Montessori Plus (GMP) programme at GIIS SMART Campus offers children aged 3–6 an enriching preschool experience that combines the classic Montessori method with modern multiple intelligences theory.
This approach fosters curiosity, creativity, and confidence while building essential skills and independence for a smooth transition into primary school. Families appreciate the nurturing environment that supports long-term academic and personal success.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
Global Indian International School (GIIS), SMART Campus: 27 Punggol Field Walk, Singapore 828649, +65 6914 7100, Whatsapp: +65 9631 6000, adm.giissin@globalschools.com, www.globalindianschool.org/sg. For Admissions: +65 6914 7001 / For Other Enquiries and Campus Information: +65 6914 7000.
North London Collegiate School (Singapore) offers a bespoke Early Years Programme with a child-centred approach in Singapore, focusing on each student's unique needs while integrating essential values like kindness, respect, and responsibility into daily routines.
The curriculum emphasises engaging, play-based learning with specialist teachers delivering daily Mandarin, music, and physical education alongside strong foundations in English and Mathematics. Families appreciate the vibrant activities, including field trips to local cultural sites and hands-on projects like cooking.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
North London Collegiate School (Singapore), 130 Depot Road, Singapore 109708, +65 6989 3000, enquiries@nlcssingapore.sg, https://nlcssingapore.sg/
At Nexus International School (Singapore), children aged 3–6 begin their learning journey in a bright, open Early Years hub directly connected to safe outdoor play areas.
The school follows the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) with play-based and inquiry-led learning that encourages curiosity, experimentation, and strong foundations in literacy, numeracy, communication, and wellbeing.
Specialist teachers deliver weekly lessons in languages, music, arts, PE, and swimming in a purpose-built on-campus developmental pool.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
Nexus International School (Singapore), 1 Aljunied Walk, Singapore 387293, +65 6536 6566, enquiry@nexus.edu.sg, www.nexus.edu.sg
E-Bridge Pre-School, an anchor operator within the EtonHouse International Education Network, delivers affordable, high-quality care and education for children from 2 months to 6 years across 30+ centres islandwide in Singapore, with more opening soon.
Their Reggio Emilia-inspired, inquiry-based curriculum creates joyful learning environments that spark curiosity and collaboration, supported by global expertise and AI lesson planning tools that allow teachers to focus on each child’s unique potential.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
E-Bridge Pre-School, 30+ Locations Islandwide, +65 6336 3322, enquiry@e-bridge.edu.sg, www.e-bridge.edu.sg
International French School (IFS) provides premium French-English bilingual education for students aged 3 to 18, backed by French Ministry certification and over 50 years of excellence.
With French as the primary language and robust multilingual support, the school fosters confident learners in a collaborative, multicultural environment. State-of-the-art facilities, including swimming pools, climbing walls, and science labs, support well-rounded development.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
International French School (Singapore), 3000 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 3, Singapore, +65 6805 0000, administration@ifs.edu.sg, www.ifs.edu.sg
Tanglin Trust School’s award-winning Nursery is committed to providing young children with a stimulating start to their education in a safe, secure environment supported by strong pastoral care.
*Families can submit their application here.
They value every child as an individual, nurturing personal strengths through creative, integrated learning experiences, including their popular Forest School Program. As children progress, the focus shifts towards building solid foundations in literacy and numeracy.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
Tanglin Trust School, One-North, 95 Portsdown Road, Singapore 139299, admissions@tts.edu.sg, +65 6778 0771, www.tts.edu.sg
Looking for a preschool where curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning flourish? At German European School Singapore (GESS), children aged 18 months to 5 years enjoy an award-winning preschool experience centred around the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme. Surrounded by nature beside Dairy Farm Nature Reserve, little learners explore through a certified Forest School Programme, a purpose-built jungle learning space, daily Mandarin, weekly swimming lessons, and specialist classes in music, sport, and art. Small class sizes ensure every child receives personalised attention while building confidence, curiosity, and a love for learning.
Why Little Steps Loves It:
German European School Singapore (GESS), 2 Dairy Farm Lane, Singapore 677621, https://www.gess.edu.sg/
*School tours available by appointment.
At the Canadian International School (CIS), young adventurers aged 2 to 5 are inspired to let their curiosity run wild! Guided by the exciting IB PYP framework, children dive into an engaging inquiry- and play-based curriculum that sparks their imagination.
Their gorgeous purpose-built kindergarten wing is a haven for little learners, featuring bright, spacious classrooms that radiate warmth. Plus, the impressive 2,600 sqm Outdoor Discovery Centre (ODC) invites exploration and adventure in nature! Every corner of CIS is designed to nurture creativity and joy, making learning a thrilling journey for every child. Click here to join their Open House for more information.
Canadian International School, 7 Jurong West Street 41, Singapore 649414, +65 6467 1732, admissions@cis.edu.sg, www.cis.edu.sg/learning/kindergarten
MindChamps PreSchool stands as Singapore’s No. 1 premium preschool, voted by parents in Influential Brands and Superbrands surveys. As the only preschool worldwide nurturing the Champion Mindset developed by neuroscientist Professor Allan Snyder, it employs a revolutionary 3-Mind model backed by research in education, psychology, neuroscience, and theatre.
Teachers receive up to 200 hours of training, delivering immersive learning through Crafted Play™ and S.M.I.L.E.S.™.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
MindChamps PreSchool Singapore, 38 centers islandwide, +65 8233 4400, sg.enquiriesps@mindchamps.org, www.mindchamps.org/preschool
One World International School (OWIS) offers a vibrant Early Childhood programme for ages 3-6 at its Nanyang and Suntec campuses, with the Digital Campus in Punggol extending this play-based, inquiry-led experience.
Built on the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and National Curriculum in England principles, children explore through sensory activities, Art, Music, Physical Education, and Mandarin, fostering self-discovery in a supportive environment.
Why Little Steps Loves It?
OWIS Nanyang Campus, 21 Jurong West Street 81, Singapore 649075, +65 6914 6700, admissions@owis.org, www.owis.org/sg
OWIS Suntec Campus, 1 Raffles Boulevard, Suntec City, Level 3, Singapore 039593, +65 6914 7240, admissions@owis.org
OWIS Digital Campus* Punggol, 27A Punggol Field Walk, Singapore 828649, +65 6914 7351, admissions.pg@owis.org
MOE Kindergarten is one of the few pre-schools in Singapore that offers a programme in the three official Mother Tongue Languages: Chinese, Malay, and Tamil. With an emphasis on nurturing early childhood bilingualism through the Starlight Literacy Programme, your child will develop a strong foundation for future language learning.
The MOE Kindergarten aims to provide quality and affordable Kindergarten 1 (K1) and Kindergarten 2 (K2) education to Singapore Citizens (SC) and Permanent Residents (PR).
They offer 4-hour K1 and K2 programs. You can choose from the following options:
MOE Kindergarten, Islandwide locations, https://www.moe.gov.sg/preschool/moe-kindergarten
Popular Chains & Large Networks
International & IB-Focused
Montessori & Child-Centred
Bilingual & Specialised Programmes
Other Strong Options
The West Coast (including Jurong, Bukit Timah, Clementi, and surrounding areas) offers many excellent options with strong international programmes, spacious campuses, and good connectivity. Here’s a curated list of well-regarded preschools and kindergartens in the West (updated 2026):
Popular Chains & Large Networks
International & IB-Focused
Montessori & Child-Centred
Reggio & Inquiry-Based
Other Strong Options
Central Singapore (including Orchard, River Valley, Novena, Thomson, Toa Payoh, and surrounding areas) is home to many premium international schools, bilingual programmes, and conveniently located options. Here’s a curated list of popular preschools and kindergartens in the Central region (updated 2026):
Popular Chains & Large Networks
International & IB-Focused
Montessori & Child-Centred
Bilingual & Specialised Programmes
Other Strong Options
The North (including Yishun, Woodlands, Sembawang, and surrounding areas) has a good selection of international schools, Montessori options, and family-friendly campuses with more space. Here’s a curated list of well-regarded preschools and kindergartens in the North (updated 2026):
Popular Chains & Large Networks
International & IB-Focused
Montessori & Child-Centred
Other Strong Options
The South (including Bukit Timah, Holland, Tanglin, Dempsey, Alexandra, and HarbourFront areas) is known for premium international schools, strong bilingual and Montessori options, and leafy, spacious campuses. Here’s a curated list of well-regarded preschools and kindergartens in the South (updated 2026):
Popular Chains & Large Networks
International & IB-Focused
Montessori & Child-Centred
Bilingual & Specialised Programmes
Other Strong Options
These popular chains offer convenience with many centres across the island — perfect if you want flexibility, familiarity, and often more affordable fees with government subsidies. Here’s a selection of the largest and most well-regarded preschool groups in Singapore (updated 2026):
If you’re looking for a global curriculum, diverse community, and seamless transition from preschool all the way to secondary school, these international schools offer excellent early years programmes. Many follow IB PYP, Reggio Emilia, EYFS, or other well-regarded frameworks.
Here are some of the top options with dedicated preschool/kindergarten programmes:
Finding the right support early can make a big difference. These centres are known for being inclusive, offering targeted intervention, or specialising in supporting children with additional needs while integrating them with typically developing peers where possible.
Tip for parents: Many mainstream international and local preschools also offer varying levels of learning support or can work with external therapists. It’s always recommended to visit, share your child’s needs, and ask about their experience with inclusion and support services.
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