Categories: Parenting

15 Best Preschools In Singapore To Develop Book Smarts & Street Smarts Before Primary School

Best preschools in Singapore


Organic food, weekly nature walks, and ocean-themed sensory rooms – you probably didn’t have these during your time as a kid. But preschools now are pretty on the ball with various education systems to children a good head start in their early years.

For all the mommies and daddies out there, here’s a list of the most popular preschools in Singapore, complete with an explanation on their teaching programmes.

*Some reviews have been edited for length and clarity
**School fees are subject to change.


What are the different preschool pedagogies in Singapore?


You’ve probably heard of Montessori and maybe even Reggio Emilia talk among parents signing their kids up for preschool. These are just examples of the various pedagogies available at preschools in Singapore. We break down the different types and which one you should sign your child up for:

Pedagogy Features Best For
Montessori
  • Child-centred learning – kids choose activities based on their interests.
  • Hands-on and self-directed exploration.
  • Mixed-age classrooms.
Kids who are naturally showing signs of independence and curiosity.
Reggio Emilia
  • Project-based learning directed by child’s curiosity.
  • Facilitators rather than teachers/instructors.
  • Creative expression through arts and play.
Children who are expressive or those who may need help developing social skills.
Waldorf/Steiner
  • Balance of intellectual, artistic, and practical skills.
  • Emphasis on no screentime to develop creativity and imagination.
  • Lessons through storytelling, crafts, and playtime.
Children who enjoy playing pretend, and parents who want to limit screentime overall.
Play-Based
  • Structured and unstructured play-based learning.
  • Focus on social, creative, problem-solving skills.
  • Fun yet educational lessons and activities.
Active and energetic kids who learn best through hands-on experiences.
Traditional
  • MOE-based curriculum focused on reading and writing in both English & mother tongue, as well as math.
  • Focuses on preparation for Singapore education system.
  • Regular milestone checks.
Parents who want kids to be well-prepared for formal education in Singapore.
Bilingual/Language-Focused
  • Curriculum offered in both English and mother tongue (mostly Mandarin).
  • Language immersion through storytelling, role play, daily conversations.
Parents who want a strong foundation in their mother tongue for their kids.
Inquiry-Based
  • Teaching method based on International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum.
  • Focuses on critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Encourages asking “why” and self-exploration to get answers.
Naturally-inquisitive kids, and for parents with plans to enrol children in IB schools in the future.
Right-Brain Training (Heguru method)
  • Develops right brain functions – creativity, intuition, emotions, imagination.
  • Mental stimulation through rapid recall activities, such as flashcard drills.
  • Encourages parental participation and involvement so teaching continues at home.
  • Meant to supplement other preschool pedagogies.
Parents who want children to develop cognitive skills beyond rote memorisation and academic learning.

When should I enroll my child for preschool in Singapore?


Formally, most preschools in Singapore would cater to children 3-6 years old for 2 years of nursery and 2 years of kindergarten:

  • N1 – Child turns 3 in that year.
  • N2 – Child turns 4 in that year.
  • K1 – Child turns 5 in that year.
  • K2 – Child turns 6 in that year.

However, many preschools also cater to kids as young as 18 months in pre-nursery programmes to develop some motor skills.

If you are interested in enrolling your child in an MOE Kindergarten (MK), note that only K1 and K2 classes are available, with your choice between 2 4-hour sessions from 8am-12pm, and 1pm-5pm. Full-day childcare services are available at all MKs at an additional cost. MK is currently only offered at PCF Sparkletots and NTUC First Campus’ My First Skool.


When is MOE Kindergarten registration?


For kids entering K1 in 2026, registration will open from 9am, 7th February 2025 to 4pm, 17th February 2025 on the MOE Kindergarten website. Do note that to qualify for registration, your child should be a Singaporean citizen or permanent resident (PR), and is born between 2nd January 2021 and 1st January 2022. You’re only allowed to register your child at 1 MK. Multiple applications will be rejected and the latest submission will only be considered.

Places for MOE Kindergarten are competitive, and there is a priority order (PO) for admission:

  • PO1: ⅓ of spaces reserved for Singaporean children from households earning less than $4,500/month or per capita income not exceeding $1,125/month. Must live within 1km of MK.
  • PO2: Singaporean and PR children with siblings already in an MK or enrolled in primary school in Singapore.
  • PO3: All Singaporean children, with special consideration for children of MK or primary school staff.
  • PO4: All PR children.

Balloting will be done if a preschool is oversubscribed and considers citizenship and the distance between your residential address and the MK. Kids are prioritised in this order:

  • <500m from MK.
  • Between 500m – 1km of MK.
  • >1km from MK.

Application results will be posted by 15th April 2025 via email. There will be a stipulated deadline as to when you must accept or reject the offer in the outcome email.

If your child is not accepted into MK, you can contact your school of choice directly to be placed on the waitlist. If not, you may want to consider enrolling your child in other preschools in Singapore.


1. MapleBear


Canadian-inspired teaching style



MapleBear Bukit Timah.

Image credit: MapleBear

With more than 50 preschools dotted all around Singapore, MapleBear merges the Canadian dynamic methodology with a locally developed curriculum designed to develop your little tot’s social, emotional, motor, language, and cultural skills.

Pedagogy: Bilingual

School fees: From $1,080/month (half day), S$1,480 /month(full day)

MapleBear Review: “Love the personal touch the centre gives to us. It’s a place of education and also a second home for our child. He is always looking forward to going to school everyday. Teachers and management are super attentive. Attention to details is what we sought after. The centre has definitely done that. If you like a holistic and warm approach to education, come to this school to have a look.” – Shi YingYing via Google Maps

MapleBear Toa Payoh
Google Reviews
4
(9)
Address
978 Toa Payoh N, #01-01, Singapore 319001
Opening Hours:
Monday 07:00 AM - 07:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

Full list of MapleBear locations.


2. Mahota Preschool


Nature-based curriculum with farming sessions



Image credit: Mahota Preschool

Sometimes, learning is best done outside of the classroom. For a good dose of outdoor activity, enrol your child in Mahota Preschool. The curriculum here is nature-based – with farming and cooking sessions, and weekly nature walks for your young one.


Image credit: Mahota Preschool via Facebook

To complete the health and wellness-based curriculum, the school also has daily health checkups upon arrival, exercise sessions, and healthy organic meals.

Academics wise, Mahota focuses on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and executes it through hands-on learning.

Pedagogy: Play-based

School fees: From $1,800/month (full day)

Mahota Preschool
Google Reviews
5
(2)
Address
Blk 808 French Rd, #03-01 Kitchener Complex, Singapore 200808
Opening Hours:
Monday 07:00 AM - 07:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

3. The Little Skool-House


Bilingual literacy-based curriculum



Image credit: Little Skool-House

Strong grasps on both English and Mandarin is a huge advantage. So if you want your little tot to start off on the right foot, consider Little Skool-House. Your child will be taught using stories, and they’ll also try their hand at things you wouldn’t expect them to do at that age, like conducting experiments or creating their own Chinese plays.


Image credit: Little Skool-House

You can find available in-house centres at notable institutions like the Ministry of Education and KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, where Little Skool-House is the preschool of choice amongst folks who work there. Apart from that, they’ve also got 8 dedicated centres all over the island, so you can definitely find one at a spot that’s convenient for you and your child.

Pedagogy: Bilingual

School fees: From $2,300/month (before subsidies)

Little Skool-House review: “Anya represented her class and won first prize at Primary One level. All this would not have been possible without a solid foundation created at The Little Skool-House.” – Parents of Anya Wong, age 8

Little Skool-House Delta House
Google Reviews
4
(19)
Address
2 Alexandra Rd #01-03A Delta House, Singapore 159919
Opening Hours:
Monday 07:00 AM - 07:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

Full list of Little Skool-House locations.


4. E-Bridge Pre-School


Also emphasises developing healthy habits & character building


Getting your kids to learn their ABCs and 123s is a must at any preschool. But if you also want your children to grow up socially-adjusted, then enroll them in E-Bridge Pre-School.


Image credit: E-Bridge Pre-School

Part of their curriculum comprises developing emotional intelligence, such as how to identify and manage feelings in themselves and others, nurturing a positive attitude, and even fostering their own self-worth. This is done through activities in class with a teacher, but parents are also expected to bring that teaching home by intentionally engaging with their children.


Image credit: E-Bridge Pre-School

Kids also get schooled in physical development with lessons on health, hygiene, and nutrition. Lessons are held both indoors and outdoors, giving children a chance to practice what they’ve learned through interactions in the real world.

Pedagogy: Reggio Emilia

School fees: From $741.20/month

E-Bridge Pre-School Sengkang Square (Large Childcare Centre)
Google Reviews
2.8
(16)
Address
20 Sengkang Square, Singapore 544709
Opening Hours:
Monday 07:00 AM - 07:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

Full list of E-Bridge Pre-School locations.


5. EtonHouse


More than 20 years of experience in Singapore



EtonHouse Thomson Preschool and Primary School.

Image credit: EtonHouse

With a longstanding 20 years in Singapore, international education group EtonHouse has a good rep among locals. The preschool follows the Reggio Emilia approach where children undergo self-directed, experiential learning where the lessons evolve based on student responses.


EtonHouse at Claymore.

Image credit: EtonHouse

If you are looking for language programmes other than English and Mandarin, EtonHouse offers 7 different language programs including Malay, Hindi and Spanish.

Pedagogy: Reggio Emilia

School fees: From $2,140.57/month (half day), from $2,412.10/month (full day)

EtonHouse Review: “My son went to EtonHouse. He loved every day spent in the school. The inquiry approach is fantastic. It helped him develop his confidence and encouraged him to ask questions which I feel are the most important traits in pre-school.” – Parentfirst

EtonHouse Pre-School Mountbatten 223
Google Reviews
4
(22)
Address
223 Mountbatten Rd, #01-18, Singapore 398008
Opening Hours:
Monday 07:00 AM - 07:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

Full list of EtonHouse locations.


6. MindChamps


Structured, academic-oriented approach


With close to 40 locations spread across our little island, MindChamps is a name that probably rings a bell with most people. With a structured, academic-focused programme, this system is good for those who want their kids to have a head start in their studies.

Pedagogy: Traditional & bilingual

School fees: From $2,205/month (half day), from $2,405/month (full day)

MindChamps review: “I notice that most of the students in MindChamps are more mature compared to other children in the same age group. Most strangers are surprised by my child’s speech, proactive behaviour and friendly attitude towards strangers.” – JY2011

MindChamps PreSchool @ River Valley
Google Reviews
4.9
(123)
Address
30 Merchant Rd, #03-12/17 Riverside Point, Singapore 058282
Opening Hours:
Monday 07:00 AM - 07:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

Full list of MindChamps locations.


7. Kiddiwinkie Schoolhouse


Experiential & investigative learning



Image credit: Kiddiwinkie

Kiddiwinkie Schoolhouse is all about experiential learning through outdoor play – one to look out for if you want your kids to get a healthy dose of sun and sweat every day.

With several awards under their belt for their curriculum, they offer unique programmes – like Vitamin C to develop moral values, and Playtinkers which provides hands-on activities for children to explore the sciences and math.

Pedagogy: Play-based

School fees: From $1,700 (half day), from $1,900 (full day)

Kiddiwinkie Schoolhouse review: “I’m absolutely pleased with the lovely environment of the school, the standard of teachers, and the level of care that they provide. We have weekly updates consolidated and sent out by the teachers. They also send out weekly activity schedules beforehand, so that parents know what the children will be going through.” – yc_mw

KiddiWinkie Schoolhouse @ East Coast
Google Reviews
3.3
(9)
Address
511 E Coast Rd, Singapore 429064
Opening Hours:
Monday Open 24 Hours Show More Timings
Contact Information

Full list of Kinddiewinkie Schoolhouse locations.


8. Carpe Diem Preschool


Strong bilingual focus



Image credit: Early Childhood Development Agency

Carpe Diem is another one of the most renowned preschools around – especially when it comes to their bilingual curriculum.The kids here are immersed in an environment structured to help them master English and Mandarin.

On top of that, the school has unique learning corners such as a Shakespeare Literacy Corner and Beethoven Music Corner for children to develop in areas beyond academics.

Pedagogy: Inquiry-based

School fees: From $540/month (half day), from $680/month (full day)

Carpe Diem @ Jurong Kechil
Google Reviews
4.3
(3)
Address
146 Jln Jurong Kechil, Singapore 598639
Opening Hours:
Monday 07:00 AM - 07:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

Full list of Carpe Diem locations.


9. Invictus International Preschool


Play-centric learning


Invictus International Preschool has a curriculum based on a mix of education systems from countries like the United States, Australia and UK. What’s more, they are known for their learning environment that encourages active learning through a hands-on approach.

Pedagogy: Play & inquiry-based

School fees: From $1,925/month

Invictus International Preschool review: “We are very happy with the progress that [our daughter] has made at Invictus International Preschool Grandeur Park. Her social and communications skills have improved by leaps and bounds in the last few months. As this was her first school experience, we were a bit apprehensive, but with the love, care, and engagement shown by her teachers she adapted to school life quickly. She looks forward to going to school to be with her friends (even on weekends).” – Jaya and Vikas

Invictus International Preschool Grandeur Park Childcare
Google Reviews
4.4
(48)
Address
11 Bedok South Ave 3, B1-04 Grandeur Park Residences, Singapore 465461
Opening Hours:
Monday 07:00 AM - 07:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

10. Blue House Infant & Toddlers Atelier


With flexible parent-child play sessions



Image credit: Blue House Atelier

Spacious and brightly lit, Blue House is more than just your regular preschool. Other than the regular classes, the school has Drop In sessions where you can pop by for flexible play sessions with your child.


Image credit: Infant and Toddler Atelier via Facebook

Programme wise, Blue House follows the child-directed Reggio Emilia approach where kids will be trained to be independent learners. Classes include messy play, drama, and music, and are conducted in both their indoor and outdoor areas.

Pedagogy: Reggio Emmilia

School fees: From $2,182/month

Blue House Infant & Toddlers Atelier review: “Nowhere in Singapore have I found an opportunity for my child to play with such a range of materials, which was a fascinating experience for him. We’ve enjoyed classes, drop in sessions and birthday parties guided over the two and half years.” – Rita Grewal

Blue House Kay Siang
Google Reviews
4.7
(11)
Address
19 Kay Siang Rd, Singapore 248935
Opening Hours:
Monday 07:30 AM - 06:30 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

11. House on the Hill


Montessori education in a peaceful space



Image credit: House on the Hill

Set in a historical conservation building, House On The Hill offers a private, peaceful environment where your kid will undergo the Montessori model of education – essentially self-directed activity, hands-on learning and collaborative play.


Image credit: House on the Hill

The school is affiliated with Nienhuis Montessori, one of the most renowned of its kind in Europe. Like all schools adopting the Montessori model, classes here are mixed aged so your child will be able to play and interact with both older and younger children.

Pedagogy: Montessori

School fees: From $2,050/month

House on the Hill review: “Many people asked me why my son eats vegetables and whole grains. After preschool, his classmates were amazed by his Science knowledge and he always scored between 90-95% in Math. He also never has issues with English and speaks fluently.” – Leon Tan’s Mommy

House on The Hill Mount Sophia – Montessori Pre-School
Google Reviews
4.5
(22)
Address
33 Mount Sophia, Singapore 228481
Opening Hours:
Monday 07:00 AM - 07:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

Full list of House on the Hill locations.


12. Children’s Cove


With parent involvement opportunities



Image credit: Children’s Cove

If you are looking to spend more time with your tots while they are in school, Children’s Cove is for you. There are many opportunities here for you to have quality time with your kids during school time – from day trips to farms to designing a class activity.


Image credit: Children’s Cove

Classes here are research-based, where kids learn via exploration and experimentation though both outdoor and indoor classes.

Pedagogy: Inquiry-based

School fees: From $1,620/month

Children’s Cove Preschool – Pasir Ris
Google Reviews
4.9
(30)
Address
443 Pasir Ris Drive 6, #03-02, Singapore 510443
Opening Hours:
Monday 07:00 AM - 07:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

Full list of Children’s Cove locations.


13. LeClare Preschool


With in-house music and arts specialists



Image credit: LeClare

For those who want their kid to hone their musical and artistic talent, LeClare has all the resources needed. On its grounds are a fully stocked art atelier with easels and pottery tools, as well as a music studio with guitars, pianos and drums. Plus, in-house specialists will be there to facilitate the classes.


Image credit: LeClare

After sessions of creative lessons, the kids will also be able to get some physical activity and social interaction at the preschool’s rooftop Adventure Park, a large and private open-air wooden playground.

Pedagogy: Reggio Emilia

School fees: From $1,900/month

LeClare Preschool review: “Do not let the fact that they’re in a shopping mall or have a playground in a car park fool you. It has by far one of the best facilities I saw. – Joanna Cook

LeClare Preschool
Google Reviews
4.8
(17)
Address
7 Shenton Way #01-02, Singapore Conference Hall, Singapore 068810
Opening Hours:
Monday 07:30 AM - 07:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

14. Emile Preschool


With international brain-training resources



Image credit: Emile Preschool

Emile Preschool was started by local professionals from NTU and NUS. Learning tools here are partly sourced from international education channels like National Geographic Kids and Oxford Reading Trees. They also take brain-training programmes from countries like Germany, Japan and Taiwan to give your child a greater head start to Primary School education.


Lunches here are both healthy and adorably designed.

Image credit: Emile Preschool

Pedagogy: Inquiry-based

School fees: From $1,558/month (half day) | from $1,758/month (full day)

Emile Preschool review: “The teachers, principal and founder are very caring and patient. They listen to the parents’ concerns and help the children progress. They also provide a healthy organic diet.” – Valerie Lim

Emile Preschool @ Toa Payoh
Google Reviews
5
(70)
Address
622 Lor 1 Toa Payoh, #02-02, Singapore 319763
Opening Hours:
Monday 07:00 AM - 07:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

Full list of Emile Preschool locations.


15. The Schoolhouse Singapore


Cooking, music & drama classes



Image adapted from: The Schoolhouse Singapore

Formerly known as Pat’s Schoolhouse, The Schoolhouse Singapore has a curriculum focused on more than just academics with blocks of time set for your child to learn other useful life skills like cooking. Kids will also be able to take a dip into the arts world with drama, music and arts and craft learning experiences.


Image credit: @theschoolhouse.sg via Instagram

This 30-year-old school also has developed a unique bilingual programme where classes are done in both English and Mandarin.

Pedagogy: Bilingual

School fees: From $1,822.43/month

The Schoolhouse Singapore review: “Amazing safe haven for my little ones. For me, it’s less about the facilities but more about the people, teachers, educators, staff, and principal, who are all excellent and loving and nurturing. Every place is going to have sick kids and outbreaks, but it’s the quality of the people working there that sets this place apart. You can tell they work from their hearts and really love the kids.” – Christelle

The Schoolhouse Mount Emily
Google Reviews
5
(6)
Address
19 Upper Wilkie Rd, Singapore 228126
Opening Hours:
Monday 07:00 AM - 07:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

Full list of The Schoolhouse Singapore locations.


Popular preschools in Singapore with the best facilities


Having a little one is no easy feat, so make sure you start getting your planning done early. With word going around that parents are applying for slots in advance, you gotta make sure that you chope these highly coveted spots fast.

For more kiasu parenting tips, check out our article here.

Also check out:


Image adapted from (clockwise from top left): White Lodge, LeClare, The Caterpillar’s Cove, EtonHouse

 

Kezia Tan

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