How do I choose a good preschool?

Question: How do I choose a good preschool? What are the characteristics of good preschool teachers? Are children who don't attend a five day preschool (childcare) program unprepared for primary school?

Answer: Preschools (full day or half day programs) in Singapore are govern by the Ministry of Community, Youth and Sports while the Kindergarten (3hr program) are licensed by Ministry of Education because it ensures that the facility has adequate space and staff and meets national safety requirements. On the websites of the various ministries, you will be able to obtain the list of preschools and kindergartens you can attend. Several preschools are seperate accredited by International organisations and you should also pay some attention to these as preschool education and even formal education in Singapore is getting pretty complex as opposed to the standard 6 years primary school, 4 years secondary school education that we were previously used to. Most preschools have websites of their own like Mindchamps, Etonhouse and Pat's school house so you should be able to obtain information fo the various preschools.

Your next step is to call prospective preschools to learn about their programs, operating hours, payment policies, and other essentials. Then make arrangements to see the schools. Don't choose a school without visiting it for a few hours. (Very important point!!!)

During your visit, look for teachers (focus on the teachers who is going to teach your child's class) who show a love of children and are dedicated to their welfare (horror stories of teachers depriving their children of their fair share of food can be found in forums). How do the teachers interact with the children? Teachers should gently guide and instruct them, answer their questions, and foster their self-confidence. Be sure to find out about the teachers' training and credentials.

The school's curriculum is of paramount importance. I would prefer preschools who develops and have a planned curriculum for the centre rather than those who leaves it to the teachers to decide on the curriculum. Avoid preschools that emphasize pen-and-pencil and teacher-directed activities, which can stifle a young child's love of learning. Make sure a school offers opportunities for your child to work alone and in groups, while balancing indoor and outdoor activities.

In selecting a school, consider carefully how your child will fit into the environment. If possible, have your child visit the school with you. And above all, choose a school in which the children are obviously having fun.While I understand that many parents prefer a preschool with a large playground, frankly, such playground are less practical then useful as Singapore's weather is largely either too hot to use such palygrounds or raining. So I would rather choose a playground with a nice gym that kids can have activities in.

Due to the rigours of standard formal education in primary school. It is essential for children to attend preschool every day to be ready for formal primary school. A good preschool will prepare the children, emotional, physically and educationally to meet the new challenges in Primary school. What matters is that the preschool experience helps your child gain an appreciation of what school is like and a positive attitude toward school.